Sea Cliff Civic Association holds 13th Annual James Joyce Jaunt in honor of Bloomsday
An Irish story through a Sea Cliff lens
Enthusiastic participants braved intermittent rain on June 20 to celebrate the 13th annual James Joyce Jaunt, a beloved tradition hosted by the Civic Association of the Village of Sea Cliff. Inspired by Irish writer James Joyce’s masterpiece “Ulysses,” the event unfolded as an homage to the novel, tracing protagonist Leopold Bloom’s iconic journey through Dublin, where he meets an assortment of quirky characters.
Originating from a serendipitous idea during a dinner conversation, the James Joyce Jaunt has evolved into a community spectacle over the past decade. Ann and Dan DiPietro, two of the event’s founders and the actors for Bloom and his wife Molly, recalled its humble beginnings.
“We heard about Bloomsday celebrations during our various trips to Dublin,” Ann explained. “We wanted to recreate that spirit in Sea Cliff.”
The jaunt typically aligns with Bloomsday on June 16 but was postponed this year due to weather concerns. Bloomsday is the worldwide cultural celebration of the author and his most famous novel, which takes place on June 16, 1904.
“For us it’s the fact that you can go back to ‘Ulysses’ as many times as you desire and there will always be something you’ve missed,” Dan said. “You read something that meant one thing to you at one time, and now it means something else.”
Despite logistical challenges, including last-minute adjustments due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts, this year’s event drew a modest crowd. Ann emphasized that the purpose of the event isn’t about the numbers, however, but about the performance itself and the celebration of literature.”
“I thought it was a tremendous success,” Ann DiPietro said. “It’s more about the experience than the numbers.”
The jaunt featured a dedicated troupe of local residents who passionately reenacted scenes from “Ulysses,” engaging attendees with humor, energy, and poignant interpretations. The event’s director, Fred Stroppel, added a creative flair, ensuring each stop along the route captured the essence of Joyce’s Dublin.
Participants and spectators alike immersed themselves in the spirit of the novel, encountering characters ranging from witty bohemians to contemplative philosophers, echoing the diverse tapestry of Joyce’s narrative. The jaunt’s route meandered through Sea Cliff, echoing Bloom’s perambulations through Dublin’s streets.
“It’s a celebration of community and literature,” Ann said. “Each year, we hope to inspire more people to discover or rediscover ‘Ulysses’.”
For everyone involved, as well as its loyal fans and viewers, the jaunt is not just an annual tradition but a labor of love, a testament to the enduring power of literature to unite and inspire.
