Dragon of Shandon to prowl again

Something big and fearsome is stirring in the depths of Shandon with reports of smoke and snarling sounds in the area, but don’t worry, experts say there’s nothing to fear.

Back for its 18th outing, the famous and magnificent Dragon of Shandon will once again awaken from her slumber to prowl the streets of Cork this Halloween night.

As always, the 36 foot beast made entirely out of tape will be escorted by her legion of loyal ghouls, beasts, misfits, and demons to celebrate the ancient tradition of Samhain in a thrilling nighttime parade and finale show attracting thousands of spectators to Cork city.

The Dragon of Shandon is run by local arts charity Cork Community Art Link.

As is the case each year, it will take hundreds of participants to summon the dragon back to the mortal realm on 31 October. Volunteers and community groups such as Suisha Inclusive Arts, Blackpool Community Access Program, and National Learning Network will be collaborating with artists from Cork Community Art Link to create floats, costumes, and performances.

Also taking part this year are the french co-operative La Bergerie, as well as Australian theatre company Curious Legends.

Onlookers can also expect performances from the Joan Denise Moriarty School of Dance, CCAL Drama Troupe, Slí Danú, The Butter Exchange Band, The Coal Quay Shawlies, and many more yet to be announced.

Cork Community Art Link described the Dragon of Shandon as a “true grassroots event” that began by asking the people of Cork what they wanted in their city.

“The event has grown into a real-life urban legend and myth, showcasing a night for the community, built by and with the community of Cork city, it is the Dragon of Shandon that belongs to the people of Cork,” a spokesperson for the organisation said.

“To keep in line with our main value of inclusiveness, most of our projects take place or have their outcome presented in the public space. Whenever, and as much as we can, we aim to provide our workshops, large scale visual arts or parades free of charge or subsidised for everyone,” they added.

The Dragon of Shandon parade continues Cork Community Art Link's 30 years of community focused, unique large scale art projects and events. In the lead up to this year’s parade, the organisation is offering a series of free workshops open to all. From float and prop making to skeleton puppeteering and face painting workshops, there is something for everyone.

The Dragon of Shandon parade is free for all and will take place on Halloween night, 31 October, beginning at 7pm on Church Street and travelling down the length of Shandon Street, North Main Street, Castle Street, Cornmarket Street, and finishing with a series of performances on the Coal Quay.