The seventh night of the souls is set to take place on Friday, 7 November, between 22:30 and 00:30, turning the streets and squares of Orihuela's historic centre into theatrical spaces where the public can encounter characters, legends, and stories linked to the tradition of the night of the souls.
Organised by the Department of Culture, this cultural initiative will create an immersive experience filled with mystery, tradition, and literature, as legends and eerie characters come to life through various theatrical performances and artistic actions. The event was originally scheduled for 31 October but was postponed due to the official mourning declared for the victims of a train accident.
The route from Plaza Ramón Sijé to the Town Hall will feature special lighting and sound, enhancing the atmosphere for attendees. One of the main focal points will be Calle Mayor, where three actors will portray the souls in an interactive manner, engaging with the audience. They will be joined by two witches performing spells and incantations, adding to the mysterious and fantastical ambiance.
Additionally, five large puppets representing the souls will traverse Calle Mayor and Santa Justa and Rufina, surprising onlookers as they pass. In Calle Santa Justa, in front of the Town Hall, the souls of Orihuela will also play a significant role in creating a highlighted area of the celebration.
The night of the souls will also feature various theatrical performances in some of the city's most emblematic heritage sites. Romantic literature and great mystery stories will take centre stage in these enactments, including:
- Town Hall: a performance of El estudiante de Salamanca by José de Espronceda.
- Plaza del Salvador: a performance of La ajorca de oro by Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.
- Cathedral Cloister: a performance of Don Juan Tenorio by José Zorrilla.
- Plaza Ramón Sijé: a performance of El monte de las ánimas by Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer.
The seventh night of the souls thus presents an opportunity to experience Orihuela from a different perspective, in an evening where theatre, literature, and popular tradition come together to fill the historic centre with life and mystery.
