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Bloomsday in Bray

Wednesday June 16th 2010

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There have been many celebrations of Bloomsday all over the world but until now, never in the place where he lived as a child – Bray, Co Wicklow.

Local retailers have joined forces to change that and this year, plans are underway to have a Bloomsday in Bray, celebrating the life and works of James Joyce – one of Irelands greatest ever writers!

On the 16th June Bray will go back to 1904 to celebrate with a range of cultural activities, including readings, dramatisations and general merriment. Some of events organised around the town include….

9.15am A gathering in No 1 Martello Terrace, Strand Road, Bray, where James Joyce lived as a child, featuring readings and recitals of James Joyce’s famous works.

10.15am A Bloomsday breakfast in Hollands, Main Street Bray, while visitors are entertained with readings and recitals

11.45am A collection of poetry readings and recitals will take place in the Bank of Ireland, Main Street Bray.

Throughout the morning and day, there will be special visits and appearances by characters from the works of James Joyce’s works. Some locals will dress in Edwardian costume and everyone in the community is urged to get into the spirit of the day and dress up too.

12.30pm Mermaid & the Civic Centre – there will be an open mic for anyone interested in reading their favourite James Joyce piece.

3.00pm A Bloomsday Afternoon tea will be held in the Royal Hotel in Bray, where characters will dance to celebrate James Joyce’s love of singing and dancing. Soprano Dara McMahon and Baratone Gerard Noonan accompanied by Pauline Cooper on Piano will present Old Time Music Hall. Also performing in the Royal will be three piece Dixie style "The Hot Club of Dublin".

4.30pm During the afternoon, there will be readings, poetry and re-inactions of scenes from Ulysses on the Main street at the Holy Redeemer Church

5.30pm Celebrations through dance with a bourles dancer, poetry, music and song, by a local celebrity at the Diva Restaurant South Main Street, Bray (Opposite Mc Donalds). Mary Fogarty will perform a melody of classics of the day followed by Meso Soprano Daragh McMahon and Baratone Gerard Noonan will perform some of Joyce's Classical/Opera favourites. Also, Cabaret performer Rose-Ann Lillis will entertain us with her unique Cabaret show.

7.30/8pm The Finale of the day in the Council Chambers, above Mc Donalds, with readings and wine.

On the day, we are going to try and raise funds for St Vincent De Paul.

For more information on Bloomsday in Bray, contact the Organiser Shane Rowan at shane@shanerowan.ie or 0862447487 or contact Bray Chamber at 01-2828248, info@braychamber.ie



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Bray as seen from Killiney Hill