Bram Stoker Festival
Spooktacular happenings in Dublin
From October 27th-30th Dublin City will not so much come alive as ‘come undead’. The Bram Stoker Festival will celebrate one of our literary heroes. Abraham ‘Bram’ Stoker was Dublin born and bred, and in 1897 wrote the internationally famous ‘Dracula’. Now all over the city for four mysterious days and nights the Bram Stoker festival will celebrate this gothic masterpiece. Below are just some of the highlights of the festival. On www.inspireme.ie we have listed many more of spooky happenings. Or for the complete programme please check out www.bramstokerfestival.com.
Spooky Smock Alley
The always fabulous Smock Alley presents the world premiere of Whitby on Friday 27th. This new show by Colin Dunne and Joan Sheehy is described as a powerful theatrical experience. Follow the tension filled voyage of the Demeter, as it sails with Count Dracula on board from Romania to the port of Whitby. This show is suitable for adults and teenagers, but best to leave the little ones at home.
The ‘Mad’ Science Gallery
Also on Friday 27th the Science Gallery in Trinity College celebrates one of its most famous past pupils, Bram Stoker, with a late night party and exhibition entitled In Case of Emergency. Adult guests can explore all types of doomsday disasters – plagues and pandemics, disease and pestilence. Leading experts in the field will share their musings on preparing for the apocalypse. And all this to the backdrop of spooky tunes with DJ Sally Cinnamon. Armageddon shall be a walk in the park after this exhibit.
Dead Air
Or why not head to Great Denmark Street where Dead Air relives the golden age of radio in Belvedere House. Here six of Dublin’s most talented writers will have their terrible tales brought to life by six different fabulous directors. Imagine yourself back in the pre-screen era when everyone huddled around the radio, listening to the crackle in the air as whispered words wove their way through the speakers. Moreover the haunted house band will ensure the atmosphere is electric as a team of artists bring their energetic performance to the stage. This is one not to be missed…. But you have been warned, don’t come alone ….
Deadly Dancing
For the mini-ghouls in your life, the Ark Children Theatre in Temple Bar is hosting two separate workshops on how to Make your Own Deadly Dance Track Workshop. For children age 8 -12 these interactive workshops are led by experienced producers and DJs and the finished product can be uploaded to SoundCloud for sharing. Who knows what delights may emerge – theme tune to Jaws anyone? Also for children, St Patrick’s Park in Dublin 8 will play host to Stokerland on 28th and 29th October. This pop-up Victorian fun park will feature comedy shows, street theatre, fairground attractions, a food village and lots more. Fancy dress is encouraged. And there will be face painting to perfect your masterpiece.
Booo-k Club
The legendary Rick O’Shea Book Club has selected ‘Dracula’ as one of the books of the month for October. The man himself, Mr Rick O’Shea will be hosting a lively (or should that be deadly!) discussion with selected readers on Oct 28th in Belvedere House. The chosen spirits shall share their insights into one of Dublin’s darkest and most complex literary masterpieces. So if you want to know more about Count Dracula this is one event not to be missed.
Camp Dracula
And finally from us, the infamous Al Porter shall be bringing his own unique comedic style to Camp Dracula in South Anne St on Sunday 29th. Described as a camp take on the King of Blood by the King of Comedy, these two shows promise to have heads rolling in the aisles.
Don’t forget to check www.inspireme.ie regularly to find lots of inspiration for things to do in your own locality. And sign up here to receive regular updates on what’s on in your area.
Finally, all information correct at time of publishing. You should always check with the event organiser before you travel.
