From a flurry of colorful dresses and sharp tuxedos, to high-energy mosh pits and photo opportunities, this year’s Diamond Bar High School students experienced the annual prom event in-person for the first time in two years. 

Held at AV Irvine on April 2, the event’s theme was “Through the Looking Glass,” inspired by the 2010 adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland.”

“We wanted to go for something elegant, but slightly ‘edgy’,” junior class president Michelle Chan said via Messenger.

In addition to a large main dance floor and a DJ, numerous other activities were made available to attendees including halo light stands for better quality photos, a flip book creation activity and a balloon room for additional photo opportunities. 

“We added casino tables where people could ‘fake gamble,’ plus a lot of photo booth activities and a cute outdoor area to cool off and get some desserts,” Chan said. 

Due to the large number of students in attendance and more relaxed COVID-19 protocols, steps were taken to ensure the safety of both students and staff. In order to enter, students were asked to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. Additionally, indoor seating was limited in order to maintain as large of an open space for dancing as possible and food was kept strictly outside.

“[The food] has to be store-bought and individually packaged,” junior Annie Chen said via Messenger. “Staff [helped to] make sure there [weren’t] any illegal substances brought in.”

Unlike Homecoming, this year’s event permitted off campus dates so long as date passes were submitted and approved by the district followed by either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test turned into the school. 

“Homecoming was really fun, but because of the pandemic, people weren’t allowed to bring in their friends and partners from outside DBHS,” Chan said. “I think that in itself made prom a really fun experience, especially for people who have friends outside of our school.”

As part of the yearly tradition, the 2022 Prom Court finalists were revealed at the venue. Rita Chammas and Malcolm Bell were named junior Prom Princess and Prince, respectively, while seniors Carissa Wu and Lionel Wang received the title of Prom Queen and Prom King. 

“Overall prom was a great experience: took cute pictures, ate great food, and vibed to good music,” Wu said via Instagram. “From the Alice in Wonderland theme to the venue right by Newport, the committee and advisors did a phenomenal job.”