The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre will host its fourth annual Doomsday Readathon, a 24-hour nonstop livestreamed celebration of Edgar Allan Poe's literary works, on May 17-18, 2025. What began as a small local event has transformed into an international literary phenomenon, featuring participants from multiple countries and expanding the cultural recognition of one of America's most influential writers.
This year's event will be centered at Poe's Magic Theatre in the Lord Baltimore Hotel, with coordinated readings occurring simultaneously in Brazil, Italy, Scotland, England, and across the United States. Notable participants include Maryland State Delegates Luke Clippinger and Mark Edelson, alongside international theatre groups such as Vigor Mortis in Brazil and Grand Guignol de Milan in Italy.
The readathon serves multiple purposes beyond entertainment, functioning as a fundraising initiative for The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre's award-winning radio dramas and stage productions. By creating an accessible, free-to-view event, the organization aims to promote literacy and introduce Poe's works to diverse audiences worldwide.
Founder and Artistic Director Alex Zavistovski emphasized the event's remarkable growth, noting its evolution from eight readers in a Baltimore basement to an internationally recognized celebration. The expansion reflects not only Poe's enduring literary significance but also the universal appeal of his storytelling across cultural boundaries.
Baltimore holds profound historical significance in Poe's life. He worked in the city for three years, authoring notable stories like "MS Found in a Bottle" and "Berenice." His familial connections to Baltimore run deep, with his wife Virginia born in the city and his grandfather a co-founder of the historic First and Franklin Church. Poe's final resting place at Westminster Hall further solidifies his connection to the city.
The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre continues to be the world's only company exclusively dedicated to adapting Poe's works across multiple platforms, including stage, radio, and educational programs. Their commitment to preserving and promoting Poe's literary legacy demonstrates the ongoing relevance of his storytelling in contemporary culture.
