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Hello Creatives,

Ever felt that chill down your spine when walking alone on an autumn night? That's the feeling we capture in our Halloween special as we bring the first half of Washington Irving's classic "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" to vivid life through an atmospheric reading.

Join me on a haunting journey to the bewitched glen of Sleepy Hollow, where shadows seem to move of their own accord and local tales speak of a terrifying Headless Horseman who gallops through the night searching for his lost head. This beloved American ghost story has captivated readers and viewers for generations through numerous adaptations, including Tim Burton's 1999 film and Disney's 1949 animated feature.

Our reading plunges you into Irving's rich, atmospheric prose as we meet Ichabod Crane, the superstitious schoolmaster whose gangly frame and peculiar nature make him both a figure of fun and sympathy. Feel the tension mount as Ichabod pursues the affections of the beautiful Katrina Van Tassel, daughter of a wealthy farmer, while competing against the formidable local hero Brom Bones. The descriptions vividly portray a community where supernatural beliefs are woven into everyday existence, showing early American rural life.

What makes this story perfect for Halloween isn't just its ghostly elements, but Irving's masterful balance of humour, romance, and genuine spine-tingling atmosphere. Whether you're rediscovering a childhood favourite or experiencing this classic for the first time, our reading offers the perfect accompaniment to the darkening autumn nights.

Curl up somewhere comfortable, perhaps with a warm drink as the wind rustles outside, and let us transport you to Sleepy Hollow, where the boundary between the natural and supernatural world grows thin. 

We'd love to hear about your favourite ghost stories or Halloween traditions – share them with us on social media or in the comments!

Sleep Tight, 

Florence x

The music in this episode is Tippy Toe by VOLK.

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Do you want to feature as one of our Guest Readers in your own special episode? If you work or study in the Performing Arts or Creative Industry in any capacity, we would love to have you.

Applications open on 1st September every year, follow us on Instagram to keep up with the announcements!

Sleepless Creatives is hosted by Florence St Leger, and produced by Canary Studios.
The opening theme is Reflection by Birds of Norway.