If Los Angeles rocks the concept of the special effects-laden haunted house, a maze that seems movie-made, then cities like Boston and Providence must own the idea of the spooky literary event, right?
Nope. Oh, we're certainly not saying that the proud cities of the east don't stage perfectly scary readings come October; rather, LA happens to have an event in its corner that is quite literary, quite elegant, quite eerie, and, given its spectacular setting, pretty much one of a kind.
The night is called "Drama After Dark," it is happening on Saturday, Oct. 20, and it is the one night of the year that visitors can stay at the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens after the sun has gone down.
That right there is treat enough -- the vast gardens change by moonlight, with shadows and animal chirps and such -- but the Halloween happening is what we are raving about.
Or make that raven. Edgar Allan Poe and Edward Gorey visit the San Mateo landmark, annually, via chilling vignettes and scenes presented by actors from the Guild of St. George. "The Raven," of course, is on the list, as is "The Telltale Heart" and more comedic offerings from Mr. Gorey. The actors are in period costume, as are some of the guests, and it is almost like seeing ghosts moving about the gardens in the dark.
In short, it's pure atmosphere. Tickets always sell out for this one, given its uniqueness and unusual setting, but we just got word there are some admissions left. A ticket is $40, plus a fee.
Did we mention there's cider and cookies at the gate? If the gorier Halloween events around town are not your cup of hot apple juice, but Gorey is, plan for this at once, and don't forget your black lace veil and gloves.
Follow NBCLA for the latest LA news, events and entertainment: iPhone/iPad App | Facebook; | Twitter; | Google+; | Instagram; | RSS; | Text Alerts | Email Alerts
