Experience the Haunting Writings of Edgar Allan Poe Live at the Poe Cottage in the Bronx
A One-Man Show
British actor Stephen Smith will perform a one-man rendition of three of Edgar Allan Poe’s best blood-curdling pieces—"The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Pit and the Pendulum," and "The Raven"—at the Poe Cottage in the Bronx on October 18.
The Performance
The event is free, but space is limited, and it’s first-come, first-served. The performance will take place in the tiny Fordham-area home where Poe lived during the 1840s. Smith, of Threedumb Theatre, has long been a fan of Poe’s work, and this is his first time performing at the Poe Cottage.
The Power of Poe’s Storytelling
Smith believes that Poe’s influence on the horror genre lies in his ability to tap into the human mind. "I think what’s scary is the human mind being the scary part, rather than some ghost or monster or supernatural," he says. "That is why I think he changed the course of where horror could be going."
The Art of Memorization
Smith has memorized over 13,000 words of Poe’s work and performs it live on stage. He believes that his show is the most faithful adaptation of Poe’s work possible. "I don’t adapt the stories in any way. I just have memorized 13,000 words of original Poe, and I perform that live on stage. I like to think that my show is the most faithful theatrical adaptation that you could ever get. It’s not adapted; it’s exactly what Poe intended but live on stage."
The Significance of the Poe Cottage
The Poe Cottage is a historic site that was once the home of Edgar Allan Poe and his ailing wife, Virginia. They lived in the cottage from 1846 to 1847, and during this time, Poe wrote some of his most famous works, including "The Cask of Amontillado," "The Bells," "Annabel Lee," and "Eureka." The cottage has been preserved to look much as it did during Poe’s time, and it features a rocking chair, a mirror, and the bed where Virginia died.
FAQs
Q: Is the event free?
A: Yes, the event is free, but space is limited, and it’s first-come, first-served.
Q: What is the date of the event?
A: The event will take place on October 18.
Q: What time is the event?
A: The time of the event has not been specified.
Q: Where is the Poe Cottage located?
A: The Poe Cottage is located in the Bronx, New York.
Q: Is it necessary to RSVP?
A: No, there is no need to RSVP. However, it’s first-come, first-served, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
