The song of the siren barmaids lures many of the characters in Ulysses to the Ormond Hotel for an afternoon sing-song. “O wept – aren’t men frightful idiots” Miss Douce laughs.
On June 11th, the Bloomsday Festival will open the glorious Georgian doors of the James Joyce Centre on North Great George’s Street for an intimate evening of song and readings from and inspired by Ulysses. Bringing to life the Sirens chapter of Ulysses, this very special event will focus on the musicality of Joyce and the music that inspired him. Featuring readings and songs from some of Ireland’s finest contemporary musicians, accompanied by pianist Bryan Mullen. Chanteuse Camille O’Sullivan and Songs of Joyce will transport the audience back to 1904 with songs from and inspired by the era.
Camille O’Sullivan
Performer Camille O’Sullivan is a singer, actress, and previously an award-winning architect and painter. She has received international acclaim for her dramatic interpretations of the narrative songs of Nick Cave, Brel, Waits, Bowie, Radiohead, and more. Acting credits include the Oscar-nominated Mrs. Henderson Presents alongside Judi Dench, Bob Hoskins, and her award-winning performance in the Royal Shakespeare’s “Rape of Lucrece” adaption/music composed by Camille and Feargal Murray. Her headlined shows include the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Festival Hall, and the Roundhouse. She was voted “One of the top 25 performances ever on Later with Jools BBC” by the Daily Telegraph.
Songs of Joyce
Songs of Joyce is a musical extravaganza of songs drawn from the life and works of James Joyce, from bawdy street ballads and sea shanties to music hall hits and folksongs. Performed with gusto by Sinead Murphy and Darina Gallagher, this musical evocation of an era has been acclaimed by critics and academics alike, and to date has performed sell-out shows all over Ireland as well as Glasgow, Boston, New York, and Moscow.
The Bloomsday Festival is organised by the James Joyce Centre in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, Dublin City Council, Dublin UNESCO City of Literature, The Ireland Funds, and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.