A spooky puppet experience featuring seasonal treats and a chance to meet the puppet stars of the show is set to thrill families in Bewley’s Grafton Street this bank holiday Sunday and Monday.

Puppeteer Martin Cahill, from No Strings Puppet Theatre, will regale children and parents alike with the story of Jamie and the Scary Witch this October 27-28.

The Spooky Stories event will take place at the Bewley’s Grafton Street Coffee Academy and promises to be packed with thrilling puppetry and magical storytelling.

“I became interested in puppetry as a child while watching Sesame Street – it dawned on me that someone was controlling the puppets and I knew it was what I wanted to do,” said the Dubliner, who has worked full time in puppetry for 20 years.

“The door to my small workshop in Drumcondra is always open – I have 60 puppets hanging up and children come in and talk to them.

“It takes a surprisingly long time to make a puppet, at least two weeks if not longer.

“People are amazed puppets are still being made but someone has to do it – I think there are probably four of us in the country who do this full time.”

Jamie and the Scary Witch is a story created by Martin, who wants children to know the puppets are only pretending to be scary.

“After the show, I usually bring the puppets out to show the children that they don’t have to be afraid of them,” he said.

“It gives them an opportunity to see they are really friendly puppets who were only pretending to be mean.

“It is also a chance to see how they work – all of the puppets are simple, big and colourful.”

In addition to the live puppet show, a ticket will include a loaded hot chocolate and Halloween cupcake for children, with a tea or coffee option for parents.

“Since we first opened our doors in 1927, Bewley’s has been synonymous with storytelling and we are thrilled to keep this alive through such a special children’s event,” said Chris Raymond, Bewley’s Grafton Street Marketing, Sales and Events Manager.

“And because Oíche Shamhna isn’t just for children, we have also infused our Samhain Afternoon Tea with our signature Barm Brack, so there is something for everyone to enjoy this spooky season.”

To book tickets for Spooky Stories at Bewley’s Grafton Street, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spookie-stories-at-bewleys-grafton-street-tickets-1043035315707.