Spooky new podcast awakens the spirits

‘Awakened Spirits of the Walls & Beyond’ conjured up and produced by Séan Coyle, Michéal McDaid and Brogan Wakeley brings the listener on an audio journey through six episodes.

Each episode tells a scary story from Derry’s past. Some cover real events in Derry’s haunted history, while others are original tales from the imaginations of the three creators.

“We wanted to tell each story at a particular place or landmark around Derry’s Walls,” said Séan.

“As opposed to someone listening to the podcast at home or while they work, people can make an experience out of it, walk around the Walls and add to the scary atmosphere,” he added.

Locations mentioned in the podcast include Magazine Gate, the Castle Bar, the Playhouse, St. Columb’s Hall and the courthouse.

Whilst local landmarks inspire the scary stories, Séan says none of the episodes are linked.

Inspired by such t.v. shows as ‘Inside Number 9’ and ‘The Twilight Zone,’ Séan says that they liked the idea of every episode being completely different and standing alone in order to keep each one fresh.

With a raft of acting, writing and production experience behind them, the three men have made the podcast to keep their skills sharpened.

Michéal said: “With lockdown and the theatres closed, this is a good way to keep active, and keep those creative muscles exercised.”

Each of them had a go at writing individual episodes. They then came together to brainstorm and apply their own talents such as editing, producing, or voice-acting to the finished product.

Brogan created another podcast earlier in the year, ‘LOCKED IN,’ which was unique in that it was recorded during lockdown with some of the cast having never physically met. The team will be looking to replicate some of its success with Awakened Spirits of the Walls & Beyond.

One of the things Séan says he likes best about the podcast, is that each episode is unique in its own way.

“If we ever do decide to revisit the series, we can add new writers and new voices for each episode,” he said.

With plans for a second series already in the works, the lads already have material for bonus episodes. For now, its over to the public.

“I think people just inherently want to be scared,” Séan said. “There’s just something about listening to scary stories,“ he added.

All episodes of Awakened Spirits of the Walls & Beyond are now available to download from all podcast providers. More information on the podcast and individual episodes can be found on the Awakened Spirit of the Walls Facebook page.

Ciarán Lockhart