THERE AREN’T too many conferences where a shaman, a white witch and a medium get to share a stage in a haunted 19th century gaol. Yet, the World Ghost Convention, which this year celebrates its 10th birthday, is no ordinary get-together.
The convention was established to allow members of the public to share their supernatural experiences in an understanding setting. What is fascinating about it though, besides the line-up, is the way in which it has been accepted by the mainstream in Cork since its inception. Every year for instance, the Lord Mayor launches the convention (last year, Lord Mayor Dara Murphy brought his family along), and the attendees are drawn from a wide cross-section of society – from clergy to trainee doctors.
Numbers are limited to 150 because of insurance issues, yet the organisers claim they could accommodate a multiple of this every year. In Cork then, for one night only, the paranormal becomes very normal.
The night begins with tea and cakes, after which various speakers take to the stage, including UCC folklorist Dr Margaret Humphreys, who will lead a discussion entitled “Twilight World Beyond the Grave”, as well as contributions from Helen Barrett, the so-called “white witch of the Isles”.
“After it ends we have a question and answers session whereby the audience can talk to the panel,” says Cooke. “You’d be amazed what questions are sent forth. It finishes around midnight, and it is a long night of sharing, listening and experiencing.”
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