Frankenstein, Mr. Hyde and of course Dracula are as much a part of good gothic literature as pumpkins are for Halloween. The horror novel with the famous bloodsucker was published 125 years ago. This is exactly what the birthplace of Bram Stoker (1847-1912) is now celebrating: from 28th to 31st October the “Bram Stoker Festival” will take place in Dublin, where all sorts of things will be on offer.
Over four days, visitors can experience spooky adventures. A free light and sound installation based on the northern lights is shown every night in Dublin’s upper courtyard: “Borealis” is a work of art by the internationally renowned Swiss artist Dan Acher, which takes up the dark clouds and mysterious weather phenomena in “Dracula”. .
‘Stokerland’, the annual Victorian amusement park, has now become an integral part of the festival and is opening its Gothic doors longer than ever this year, for three days in St Patrick’s Park (29-31 October). There are rides, old-fashioned games, performances and macabre theatre. At the O’Reilly Theater on Halloween night, Dreamgun Film Reads turn their satirical laser beam on Bram Stoker’s eponymous 600-year-old demon. A new film read takes a look at the cult novel and all the vampire movies it inspired.
Speaking of vampire films: Of course, Nosferatu should not be missing at such an event! “Nosferatu – A Symphony of Horror” premiered 100 years ago and is now getting new film music: Composer and musician Matthew Nolan was responsible for the special musical performance, supported by Jeff Ballard, Sean Mac Erlaine and Sharon Phelan. You can see the whole thing in the Pepper Canister Church.
There is also a lot to see in the Irish capital away from the festival. One of the highlights of the city is definitely the famous Temple Bar district. It is located in the center of Dublin and is characterized by its cobbled streets and old houses. Here one pub follows the next. While the streets are crowded with people at night, it is quieter during the day. Above all, the bar of the same name, whose facade is painted in a bright red, is known beyond the country’s borders. A pint of beer costs a little more here, but the rustic ambience is always convincing.
In general, it is advisable to go through the pubs in the evening. It’s good form here for bands to provide live music. Find a seat, listen to the traditional songs and watch the hustle and bustle – you immediately absorb the Irish attitude to life. At the latest when half the pub is singing along. In general, Dubliners are extremely friendly, open-minded and like to talk to tourists.
