
ASTORIA — Students at Immaculate Conception Catholic Academy stepped back in time on Jan. 31, transforming themselves for the school’s annual Wax Museum.
Dressed as historical figures and cultural icons, students had a bell near them and their presentations that people could ring to make them speak to take the audience back to a time when their chosen person made a positive impact.
Sixth grader Harry Larry brought to life decorated U.S. soldier and movie star Audie Murphy. At the tap of the bell, Harry transformed into Murphy, deepening his voice and reflecting on his transition from a soldier fighting for his country to an actor in Hollywood.
“I’m having fun playing him. [Murphy] wasn’t very strong and wasn’t that tall, but he made up for it in bravery,” said Harry, who had his paternal grandfather’s Legion of Merit and Bronze Stars and his maternal grandfather’s dog tags as part of his presentation.
Fifth grader Gabriel Machuca embodied famed naturalist, geologist, and biologist Charles Darwin, from his wig to his buckled shoes. Gabriel said he chose Darwin because he fell in love with animals and nature while going out on hikes.
“I looked at his background, and I saw he was just like me,” Gabriel said. “He collected insects, he collected plants, and he also studied nature. That’s what I would do all the time.”
Multiple grades participated in the wax museum exhibit. Assistant Principal Keri Donohue said the fifth graders were assigned mathematicians and scientists, seventh graders picked authors, and eighth graders received saints because of their upcoming confirmations.
She added that the fifth graders were especially excited because it was their first time participating.
“I’m really proud of the effort that the students put into this,” Donohue said. “The underlying goal is to have students fully immerse themselves in the experience of who it is they are portraying. To present it in a realistic way rather than to try just memorizing something and doing a regular class presentation.”
Brian Francis Hogan, the Knights of Columbus Grand Knight of Immaculate Conception 11449, and Sir Knight Mario Massa said they were impressed with how students celebrated their historical figures.
“I think the kids are very proud of what they accomplished,” Hogan said. “They clearly put a lot of work into this. … The interest in their work made the kids feel good.”
Seventh grader Jarret Guerrero, who is an avid Marvel fan, embodied Stan Lee, who, as the founder of Marvel Comics, created many of the most renowned superhero characters, including Jarret’s favorite, Spider-Man.
Jarret said the wax figure project allowed him to learn more about the character he loved.
“I really enjoyed the wax museum and how everyone gets to learn something about who they are doing and how they get to teach people about who they chose,” said Jarret, who had a Spider-Man mask as a prop for his presentation. “I was really looking forward to this because I am very passionate about this guy and his creations.”