Poe, Dracula, Evasons and burlesque stars stir Halloween spirits in Baltimore and DC

A Good Witch (Clark Smith)

If, as the poet T.S. Eliot once wrote, April is the cruelest month, then October surely must be the scariest. This is certainly true in Baltimore, Maryland ~ the final resting place of Edgar Allan Poe.

Charm City has long embraced the poet whose untimely death remains shrouded in mystery. Baltimore may also lay claim to the invention and manufacture of the ominous Ouija board. So, with the spirit’s permission, the Baltimore Post-Examiner would like to move your oracle’s planchette and present our picks for some of the most entertaining and eerie things to do this Halloween season.

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Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum reopened.
Westminister Hall. (Courtesy)

Edgar Allan Poe died in Baltimore on Oct. 7, 1849, and ever since then he has been both embraced by the city and associated with Halloween.

This weekend, the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum, which was shuttered last fall amid budget cutbacks and acrimonious directives, reopened under the auspices of a new organization aptly titled Poe Baltimore. Visitors to the house will be greeted by a completely new interpretation as imagined by the good folks at the B&O Railroad Museum. Is this new rendering a hit or a miss? It’s too soon to say. However, some of the same public servants who helped to pull the plug on the Poe House were on hand to toast the new entity when it opened last Saturday. If that doesn’t scare you, nothing will.

One thing is for sure: it’s nice to see the old house opened up again. This month’s sneak preview of the renovated museum is being offered in conjunction with Free Fall Baltimore. The house, which is only open weekends, is at 203 Amity Street in Baltimore; same location for 183 years.

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On Sunday evening, October 6, join Jeff Jerome, Curator Emeritus of the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum, as he and other Poe fans gather at the grave of Poe (located at the Westminster Burial Grounds) to observe the author’s death.

Poe Monument (Anthony C' Hayes)
Poe Monument (Anthony C Hayes)

“Poe’s Dead Observance” will allow people to express their feelings toward the master of the macabre through poetry, eulogies or song. Joining Jerome will be actors Don Mullins and Steven Lampredi, founder and director of The Old New Theater of Fells Point. The actors will present theatrical readings, including obituaries of Poe, and letters written during his fatal illness and immediately after his death and burial. Throughout this event, Jerome hopes to dispel many of the myths about this tragic final episode in Poe’s biography.

This event is free but the standing room area is limited among the tombstones and ancient burial vaults. The gates open at 4 p.m. and access will be first-come first-serve. This event will be held rain or shine at the Poe Monument. Flowers for Eddie are encouraged and welcomed and donations in honor of Poe will be gladly accepted. A penny for your thoughts.

For those who can’t make this event, a smaller and shorter ceremony will be held at the grave earlier in the day by the Edgar Allan Poe Society.

Since 1923, the Poe Society has sponsored an annual commemorative lecture on the life and/or works of Edgar Allan Poe. This lecture (presented by a noted Poe scholar) always is held on the first Sunday in October, more-or-less coinciding with the anniversary of Poe’s death. Prior to this event, it is traditional for members of the Poe Society to gather at Poe’s grave, placing flowers on the monument in a brief and informal ceremony to honor Poe’s memory.

This grave side ceremony takes place at 1:15 p.m. at Westminster Burial Grounds, West Fayette Street, Baltimore, Maryland. The annual lecture follows at 2:00 p.m. at The Central Branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral St, Baltimore, Maryland.

Both Poe Society events are free and open to the public

And don’t forget the Annual Halloween Tour of Westminster Hall, Catacombs, and Burying Ground is scheduled for October 31 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.  Always chilling, the evening features continuous tours of the cemetery where Poe, his small family, and numerous other famous Baltimoreans are buried. Organ interludes, dramatic readings and light refreshments will be served. There is a modest admission to enter the grounds. Reservations are not required but please be prepared to stand in line.

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Michael P Sullivan is Dracula. (Teresa Castracane)
Michael P Sullivan is Dracula. (Teresa Castracane)

The ruins of the old Patapsco Female Institute (PFI) in Ellicott City have always been an eerie place. But this October, audiences will have the extraordinary opportunity to see the classic horror play Dracula presented there, in a disturbingly intimate format.

This movable production by the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company allows the audience to follow the actors throughout the grounds of the spooky stone ruins as they watch the original vampire step into the blood bank to make a withdrawal.

Audiences will walk from scene to scene in the darkened ruins and around the grounds of the PFI Historic Park and become part of the action in this unique format.

This show is recommended for children ages 10 and older, and pre-ordering tickets is strongly recommended as some shows have already sold out.

CSC reminds its patrons to check the weather before setting out and if needed, wear layers (it can get really cold!). Also plan for a walk up the PFI Hill, and bring a flashlight for safety.

Dracula runs from Oct. 4 – Oct. 31. Tickets may be purchased by calling 410-313-8661 Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. -2 p.m. or at The Cheseapeake Shakespeare  Company website.

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Long before the final episode of Homicide: Life in the Streets was a wrap, cultures all over the world were practicing mummification.

Mummies of the World – one of the current exhibits at The Maryland Science Center – displays a never-before-seen collection of 150 objects and specimens, including real human and animal mummies and related artifacts from South America, Europe, Asia, Oceania and Egypt. The exhibition also demonstrates that mummification – both through natural and intentional processes – has taken place all over the globe, from the hot desert sands of South America to remote European moors and bogs.

Mummies of the World is an ongoing exhibit, but because of its popularity, reservations are required. More information may be found by visiting the Maryland Science Center website.

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No one seems to know how The Munster’s theme morphed from a plodding pipe organ piece into its now ultra cool, reverb drenched surf music sound. Writer Jon Burlingame once described it as a, “Bernard-Herrmann-meets-Duane-Eddy sound.” Of course, “Bernard-Herrmann–meets–The Ventures” might have been closer to the mark. Regardless, the theme has become a Halloween classic and no one does it better today than those masked masters of the driving DiPinto guitar ~ Los Straightjackets.

Monster Zombie Boogaloo features the sound of Los Straightjackets.
Monster Zombie Boogaloo features the sound of Los Straightjackets.

Los Straightjackets will be in the area twice this month, with two other legendary bands – The Fleshtones and Southern Culture on the Skids – promoting the release of a new album titled Mondo Zombie Boogaloo. The album is a collection of novel recordings and includes originals and standards that promise to put listeners in the mood for Halloween.

One interesting note: The album cover for Mondo Zombie Boogaloo features artwork by Steve Blickenstaff; best known for his unforgettable images on The Cramps’ 1984 album, Bad Music for Bad People.

SCOTS, Los Straitjackets and The Fleshtones will appear October 27 at the World Cafe Live – Philadelphia, PA. The trio will then move south for one show on October 29 at the U Street Music Hall – Washington, D.C. Tickets and other information may be found by visiting each band’s website. Costumes, as always, are optional, but lucha libre masks are a must.

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It isn’t often children get to meet a great-coated ghost from Baltimore’s past, but on Oct. 19, they can when Clifton Mansion opens for a day of history, food and fun.

The tower at Clifton Mansion.
The tower at Clifton Mansion. (William. P. Tandy)

Clifton Mansion was the home of Captain Henry Thompson, a Baltimore merchant who served as captain of the Flying Artillery, 3rd Maryland Brigade in the War of 1812.

Some years later, the stately Georgian structure was purchased and expanded by merchant and philanthropist, Johns Hopkins.

Captain Thompson will be on hand at Clifton Mansion to talk about life in early 19th century Baltimore and to help interpret both cavalry and infantry displays. Families may also enjoy food prepared from the recipes of 1812, play games, see exhibits, and sign up for special tower tours and archaeology experiences.

The Clifton Mansion is located in Clifton Park at 2701 Saint Lo Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21213. More information may be found at the website or by calling 410-366-8533.

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When Hollywood’s most famous Wolfman, Lon Chaney, Jr. died in1973, his body was donated to science.

It is said that after his corpse was dissected, his liver and lungs were kept on display in glass jars as exhibits of what unbridled alcohol and tobacco use can do to a human.

Lon Chaney Jr: A screen shot from Dracula vs. Frankenstein.
Lon Chaney Jr: A screen shot from Dracula vs. Frankenstein.

Not that writers drink or smoke to excess, but it does seem strangely fitting that on Monday Oct. 7, the Baltimore Chapter of the Maryland Writer’s Association & the Village Learning Place will kick off this year’s Literary Arts Week with its 2nd Annual Moon Madness reading.

Literary lunatics are encouraged to dust off their moon inspired short stories and grave side tales, or write something new while watching their knuckles slowly become covered with hair. Anything goes in this open mic extravaganza. Plus there will be prizes, snacks, wine, soft drinks, and tarot readings. Best of all, it’s all free. Another nod to Free Fall Baltimore.

As always, authors are asked to please bring copies of their books to donate to VLP’s small press section of their library.

Village Learning Place is at 2521 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Silver bullets will be provided right after the reading, courtesy of Coors.

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Speaking of books, on Saturday Oct. 12, from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m., The Ivy Bookshop in Mount Washington will host a ‘Welcome to the Neighborhood’ party for LitMore – Baltimore’s new writing center. Party goers can enjoy refreshments and readings by some of Baltimore’s best poets and writers while perusing the stimulating selections on the Ivy’s well-stocked book shelves. The Ivy is generously donating a percentage of sales during this event to LitMore.

The Ivy Bookshop is located at 6080 Falls Road, Baltimore, Maryland 21209

And lest we forget that All Hallows’ Eve precedes All Saints Day, LitMore opens its doors for a combination debut party and open house on Nov. 1. The evening will feature a dramatic offering intriguingly titled – “Murder on the Bare Stage & The Great Beyond.”

The LitMore party will also feature tarot readings, Day of the Dead skull face painting, live music and an appearance by the effervescent Barbara DeCesare. What’s not to love?

LitMore Literary Arts Center is at 1702 South Road Baltimore, Maryland 21209.

Festivities begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are only $10. There will be a cash bar, but don’t wait to grab a beer or two. With a room full of writers, the tap is bound to run dry pretty early.

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It’s frightening to think that Michael Keaton was once a major star in Hollywood. His mildly acclaimed turn as Batman has long been lost amidst the guano of a million Ben Affleck memes. But on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 7:00 p.m., Keaton fans may bask in the glow of the Domino Sugars sign while watching Keaton’s one true tour-de-force, Beetlejuice. Presented by the American Visionary Art Museum as part of the always popular “Flicks From The Hill” outdoor movie festival, visitors may also enjoy free pumpkin decorating in the Tall Sculpture Barn from 4:00 -6:00 p.m. (BYOP) and seasonal treats for sale to benefit the museum. Costumes are encouraged. Just don’t dress up like Jack Nicholson’s Joker.

The American Visionary Art Museum is at 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, Maryland 21230.

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No creature feature would be complete without a bit of bodice ripping and what better way to pay tribute to those double-D damsels than with several darkened chambers chock full of beguiling girls.

The action begins on Friday Oct. 25th, as D.C.’s Tilted Torch gears up for their 5th annual Halloween celebration, Spook-O-Rama! A carnival of mirth and masquerade in celebration of All Hallows’ Eve, the show features the spellbinding moves of Malibu, the insanely beautiful Miss Joule, raucous Ruby Rockafella and wicked performance artist Pandora’s Box. The Sweater Set provides eerie melodies sure to tickle your skeleton’s funny bone while sinister femme-cee Shortstaxx keeps the ghouls a-jumpin’. Ghastly games and an outrageous raffle (earmarks of every Tilted Torch show), will make attendees scream for more! Audience members are encouraged to come dressed to stir up some fear on this spine-chilling night!

Spook-0-Rama starts at 8:00 p.m. at the Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE, Washington, D.C. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 the night of the show.

For those who can’t make it to Spook-O-Rama, Ruby Rockafella will also be shaking her feathers on Halloween night, when The Bier Baron in D.C. is transformed into Hot Todd Lincoln’s House of Horrors. Lincoln (who wisely decided to forego an evening at Ford’s theater) will host Rockafella and fan favorites Kay Sera, Chérie Nuit, Sunny Sighed and Bal’d Lightning, along with several other performers for a night of frighteningly tantalizing burlesque, belly dance, and sideshow entertainment! Both the curtain and the skirts rise at 8:30 p.m. The Bier Barron Tavern is located at 1523 22nd St NW, in the now locked and chained confines of Washington, D.C.

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Is there anything sweeter or more tantalizing than mountains of Halloween candy? The answer is YES, as can be witnessed anytime burlesque sensation Angie Pontani brings her troop to town.

Helen Pontani contemplates the moon (Frank Burkett)
Helen Pontani contemplates the moon (Frank Burkett)

On Friday, Oct. 25, The Creative Alliance welcomes a drop dead sexy Halloween extravaganza: Burlesque-A-Pades ~ Spooktacular. Celebrating everything that goes bump (and grind) in the night, this ghoulishly glamorous show features New York City’s international burlesque sensation, Angie Pontani. Joining Angie will be a bevy of beauties, including the Lucille Ball of Burlesque, The Maine Attraction; The Tappin Tornado, Helen Pontani and the lively moves of crypt kicking honeys, The Undead Dancers! Burlesque-A-Pades Spooktacular is hosted by master illusionist, Albert Cadabra; the healthy apple surreptitiously tucked in this ample goody bag of treats.

Costumes are encouraged and one lucky contestant will win over $500.00 in valuable prizes in Spooktacula’s creative costume contest. Angie maintains, “It’s the perfect guilt free treat this Halloween season!”

That’s strange. Just seeing The Pontani Sisters name, I’m already feeling quite guilty.

The Creative Alliance is located in Highlandtown at 3134 Eastern Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland. Showtime is 8:00 p.m . Tickets are $15 – $25 and may be purchased at www.creativealliance.org.

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And finally: Do spirits return from the dead? The answer to that question may astonish you when mentalists, The Evasons’ return to The Creative Alliance on Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

Catch The Evasons - mentalist duo blow your  mind away at Creative Alliance Friday.
The Evasons  return to the  Creative Alliance to put on another spectacular show.

The Evasons’ unique combination of talent and showmanship will open eyes, open minds and open hearts. Jeff and Tessa Evason blend psychology and psychic intuition as they take their audience through a series of interactive adventures leading up to their specialty – Second Sight.

After more than 30 years of touring the globe, Tessa’s spiritual gift continues to amaze. And lest the doubters dissuade you, nothing is prearranged with secret assistants or audience members. The couple offers a $100,000 reward if anyone can prove otherwise! If anything, prepare to be amazed and expect the entirely unexpected.

Again, this show is Wednesday Oct. 30, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. Be sure to go and take a keepsake or two along in your purse. Your late aunt Matilda is expecting you.

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The Ouiji board just said ‘Good Bye’, but not before listing a plethora of spooky events. From urban archaeology and the final resting place of Edgar Allan Poe to a city crowded with motionless bodies, there’s a lot to dig about the Halloween in Baltimore. The fun already has  started so grab a stake and head for the heart of the city. We promise, you’ll have more fun than a mesmerized monkey running amok in the Rue Morgue.