Halloween legends and lore come to life on the indoor stage with adventure, a bit of history and even humor!
“The Spirit of All Hallows Eve” – 10th Run!
October 17 & 18
Saturday & Sunday
1:00 & 4:00 pm both days
Admission is $5 (cash or check only)
$4 for groups of 10+
Reservations accepted: 815-724-3761
Tickets also sold at the door
Show’s Picture Gallery
Travel back in time to ancient Egypt for the mummy’s awakening, encounter fiery fairies and get a glimpse of a mythic creature seen just once a year in the Halloween drama, “Spirit of All Hallows Eve” – now celebrating its 10th run! Druidic narrators take audiences back in time from ancient Egypt, New England colonial times, to the mystic isles that have long since passed. The story takes on the word-of-mouth legends handed down thousands of years and puts them to question. History, adventure and humor provides a unique treat for Halloween enthusiasts everywhere.
Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre is proud to present this original Halloween tale by the Bard’s Guild Theater on Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18. The shows are performed at the indoor theater at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm each day. Show admission is $5 (cash or check only). Groups of ten or more are just $4. Reservations are recommended (815-724-3760, option 2).
“The Spirit of All Hallows Eve” returns to the Park’s stage where it debuted in 2001 by the Bards’ Guild Theater group. “I think this show appeals to Halloween fanatics because it takes the holiday down a new avenue, expressing the festivities in a way that’s never been done before,” says Eric Moniger, the head director, author, and performer in the show. “But, we really wanted to make this show fun for everyone to watch,” Moniger continues. “It was really exciting for us to have things like zombies, witch hunters, and spectral encounters with elaborate stagecraft, not only for the kids, but for all the Halloween, fantasy, adult fans in our audience as well.
“It might be a little scary, but my kids are coming to the show to see Dad on stage!” says Ryan “One of a Kind” Devine, an assistant director, who championed the return of the show. He takes the stage, along with devoted assistant director, Roger 
“Reg” McReynolds. Assisting behind the scenes is Barb Wallace, the right-hand lady for costuming to scheduling, and everything in between.
Among the 21 actors, in featured roles are Leo Brambaugh, Natalie Gustafson and Cheryl Foster; with key supporting roles by Paul Darin, Celine Stroupe and Danny Carroll. Annalis Whalen, long-term Bards Guild member, is flying cross-country to reprise a few of her classic roles. Performing various intrinsic roles are: Bri Bell, Elana Carmine, Zane Carmine, Tanner Lee, Katie Marx, Jenna Maue, Andy McReynolds, Amber Schieble, Krystyne “Kiki” Swan, Jenna Wallace and Faye Ann Zolp.
The show is suitable for all families, with an appeal for those in elementary, middle school, college and older. As there are only a few moderately “scary” moments, it is recommended for ages five and older.
Reservations are accepted by calling the Bicentennial Theatre office (815-724-3761), emailing (bipark@jolietcity.org) or contacting Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre through social media.
Audience members are greeted with Halloween-decorated lobby, with doors opening at 12:00 noon Saturday and Sunday. Come early and enjoy the “Spooky Boo-tiqueee” (find little Halloween treasures, many handmade, 50¢ on up) and “Spirit Sweet Shop” (featuring Halloween treats).
Check out our “Greeen Halloweeen Crazy Craft Corner.” For 50¢, make-and-take a Halloween glowing candy decoration out of a recycled bottle (supplies
provided). It’s a fun idea to expand upon at home!
For the big kids, the Witches Night Out committee has graciously donated a generous gift basket (valued over $60) of Witches Night Out goodies, including 2 tickets to their popular October 22 event — which often sells out! One winner will be drawn from the four shows.
Audience members are invited to wear their favorite Halloween costume! Those wearing a costume receive one free entry into a drawing for a sparkly, lighted pumpkin from the Halloween forest in the lobby – one winner at every show.
“The Spirit of All Hallows Eve” live, indoor performances are at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre, 201 West Jefferson Street, downtown Joliet. The park’s main entrance is still accessible off Jefferson Street, and is not hindered by construction on the Jefferson Street bridge. There is free parking within the park, and in the lots south of Jefferson Street along the river and bluffs.
The theater is on historic Bluff Street, running along the west riverbank downtown Joliet. Uniquely situated between the I&M Canal and limestone bluffs, a few blocks from historic Route 66 and a stop on boaters’ Great Loop, the venue features an indoor theatre, outdoor bandshell, large pavilion, ten acres of scenic walkways, flower beds, historic markers and outdoor artwork. Indoor and outdoor events are scheduled throughout the year, drawing thousands of visitors annually to downtown Joliet, Illinois. For upcoming events and shows, visit www.bicentennialpark.org or call 815-724-3760.
