A Bray Childhood Remembered

Do the strand…

aving wowed audiences at The Whale with the likes of The Horror Writer and Blind, the multi-talented and highly prolific author and playwright Emily Gillmor Murphy has come up with something different for her latest venture.

Namely, a 90-minute talking & walking tour of Bray’s iconic promenade.

Headphones on, eyes front, and just let the stories take you back through a very happy childhood and the local landmark’s colourful history.

“I grew up walking the Bray promenade,” Emily explains, “and I have countless stories that involve sandy adventures, curious dog walks and bitterly cold dips in the sea. And that made me wonder about other stories that this place might be harbouring, and how amazing it would be if the promenade itself could reveal its secrets…”

Running from March 28th until April 18th, Bliss will be available through the Mermaid’s website, this 90-minute self-guided tour going beyond the usual rules and regulations by putting the promenade itself front and centre for the storytelling.

“We wanted the crackling stones, whistling ships and squawking swans to all be part of the experience. So, alongside some great voice talent, you’ve got Bray promenade itself, whispering and cackling in your ear.”

That voice talent comprises of Deirdre Molloy, Aisling O’Mara, Ciara Ivie, Niamh McPhillips, Val O’Connor, Michael Sheehan and Donncha O’Dea, all helping bring the author’s memories, observations and deep dives to life.

Bray Promenade 1970s

“It’s a beautiful place,” finishes Emily, “and it holds a special place in many people’s hearts. So, we reckon it’s time Bray promenade got its moment in the spotlight, to tell its own story…”

You can find out more about Bliss – and book your tour – right about here, and jump back to our 2019 interview with Emily right here.