Any good? What acts were there?
well it was ok for being only the 2nd day ever of a new faire.. i have been to worse.. also i heard that some vendors and what not were missing but would be there next weekend... i dotn think they advertised very good though as from what i gathered it was basically just local advertisement... i dotn know what the gate count was today.. but yesterday they had 500 or so i heard..
for acts.. ummm.. that dude with the crystal balls was there, hob (he has a bridge and even a hut).. some sca group, living statues, a 2 person comedy act that i forgot the name of, gypsy dancers.. and there might have been 1 or 2 more but i was busy bsing most the time with people there..
note: bees suck.. and are everywhere.. especialy if you get some root beer.. also posion ivy and poison oak if you stray off the path.. but they have signs about that everywhere that it poses a threat.
note2: i did take pictures.. and alot and alot and alot.. but most are of teh same peeps alot of times.. oh well was learning my camera.. i will have them posted probably tommorrow.
As Cyron, said, everything looked good except for the blooming wasps that was around and about. We wasn't there long as I wanted to make a small trip to the Bronners Christmas store which was great too.
Cyron, my husband and I passed you while you was chatting with someone about a camera, we had our baby daughter and we was both in green and gold. :)
Pictures in other thread.
We got there late and ended up being there "nude". The wasps were a minor issue and I'm sure they will be gone by next week. If not a few wasp traps with some rootbeer in them will do the trick! ;D
I only took about 150 pictures and I'm going through them right now. So far I'm not real happy with what I have. Either the shade was killing my shots, my camera is failing me or I just didn't do as good of a job as I should have. I'll start posting what I can save tonight.
For the first weekend we thought it was actually pretty decent. As time goes on I'm sure it will pick up. We were going to head down to the Ohio RenFest for their last weekend but I think it's too far and will cost too much (money is tight). Plus I'm really not happy with my pictures so, I think we'll be going back next weekend to get a few more shots. Maybe if we aren't nude the shots will turn out better? Hmm... :-\
Oh ya, there were a bunch of familiar faces mulling around the crowds too.
Jon.
Barb and I were both sick this weekend so we didn't make it. We're heading to Ohio next weekend, so maybe we'll try making it the final weekend. Sounds like everyone had a decent time, and glad to hear it.
Jim, you look stunning as King Henry the Eight. Julie, it looks like you never used those modesty panels on the dress!!!
We were very belssed with wonderful weather this weekend. We couldn't have asked for it to be any better when it comes to the weather.
The bees were worse on Saturday than they were on Sunday. But I have been assured that the issue is being taken care of, not just because it is suppose to be a little cooler next weekend, but they are suppose to be spraying or setting traps or something of that sort this week. At the gate on Sunday the issue was Ladybugs not the bees.
There were a few merchant spots open, but the owners completely understand that they had previous committments at Grand Valley and they never want to step on any other festivals toes. So I am informed that there will be more merchants this next weekend.
As for numbers, I am told that they had about the same numbers both days. I was also informed that there were already several repeat patrons. Including some of the MiRF employees came to visit us.
The "dude with the crystal balls" is Fleck, he also had Jade with him. Carnivale Mijnoon, Hob the Troll, The Theatrical Combat Network, SCA, Heart and Soul, a Juggler, Sakeena, Joseff & Friends, and another musician are also there. The Musketeer Training Academy is there as well as face painting and Henna, Games for the kids that are very affordable (50 cents each and with every turn they get a treat and a coin!). There was also a Magician added this weekend, his name is Kevin and from what I understand he is absolutely phenominal!! We also had a wonderful visitor from Equinox come to see us and play at the Royal High tea!! She informed us that more of them will be coming in the following weekends. Robyn the Bard will be making appearances as he can. I am told that there are going to be more surprises as the weeks progress!!!
There is a ton of sitting all around the festival grounds. Plus tables at the food court for sitting and eatting. TABLES!!!
I heard that Hob changed his show just for MMRF so, it isn't the same show that he does at MiRF. I actually got to sit and watch it and I loved it!!! I can't wait to see the fire show that TCN puts on!! Or the one that Carnivale Mijnoon does!!
As with any business when first opening, there were some things that they are going to take care of. Some kinks to work out. But there isn't a festival out there anywhere that had a perfect grand opening weekend!! So they will work on it and get it right. There is never a day at any festival that there isn't one issue or another that arises.
I think the faire has a warm, cozy feeling to it. Like a sigh at the end of summer and a winding down of Faire Season.
It was wonderful to Cyron, who I recognize from this forum. I haven't put face to photos posted from the other photographers whose work I enjoy here. Sorry to hear you had tough weekend of shooting.
I didn't eat much of the food so I can't comment. It's chilly in the woods in the morning, so dress in layers. The faire is completely in the woods. The only sunny spot is in front of the Court Diaz.
There is lots of seating.
lol i figured dude with the crystal balls was better then saying doug since i could not remember his stage name.. lol
woot, by by bees.. bees like the root beer. alot.. probably more then me.. lol
oh yah for got about the magician guy.. heard people talking about how they loved that show.. i was to busy talking with people so did not see it.
I missed most of the shows because I was talking or taking pictures but that's why we'll be going back. To talk and take more pictures, err, ya, watch the shows. ;)
I think I'd have to agree about the music too. My wife made a comment to me when we left that there needs to be more music drifting through the woods.
I'd actually like to see some open fire cooking too. Not sure how you could do it safely in the woods with patrons all around but some cast iron pots bubbling with fresh soup or stew would add several good smells to get everyone hungry and in the mood to eat. Oh ya, hot bread would be cool too. Ya, can you tell I'm hungry?
The wasps weren't too bad if you stayed away from the rootbeer stand or Cyron's mug and the Japanese beetles were only at the ticket booth. Both can be taken care of with some traps.
Jon.
Sounds nice. Me and the wife are planning on coming this Saturday although I am worried about the bees since my wife is deathly allergic. I won't be in the armor but I might wear a "soft" costume (ren shirt & pants and ren boots). We are planning on having lunch there so I hope the food is good! Speaking of that, are there turkey legs? If not, how about a nice roasted chicken?
There's plenty of chicken and turkey legs at the Black Dragon Inn, I think that's what it was called. :)
QuoteAs with any business when first opening, there were some things that they are going to take care of. Some kinks to work out. But there isn't a festival out there anywhere that had a perfect grand opening weekend!! So they will work on it and get it right. There is never a day at any festival that there isn't one issue or another that arises.
It went very smoothly. Having opend a few faires I saw nothing that would effect a patrons enjoyment of the show. That is what I watch, do the patrons (NOT RENNIES) like it. Rennie will come no matter what. The general public is a tougher sell.
I would also add that Porthos was beyond perfect, he was FRENCH!
Watch for "Retro-Porthos" on weekend four, and perhaps a special REALLY retro surprise for the last day. All I am saying is that the -real- veterans will be jumping in the way back machine for this one...
L. Dale Walter
L. Dale Walter, were you running the kids fencing Sunday?
Jon.
My fingers ache from sewing on pearls and I can't wait till Sunday!!!!
OOOOHHHHHH pearls.... I can't wait to see it!!!! I'm sure if you ask His Majesty he'll kiss every finger at least once... *LOL*
I am glad everybody had a great time and a big HUZZAH!!!!! to everybody who worked their fingers to the bone, every vendor, actor, and show who make it possible. May the Mighty Odin bless this faire for many years to come and let it grow a bit with each season.
Quote from: Aldwulf on October 14, 2008, 09:54:09 AM
I am glad everybody had a great time and a big HUZZAH!!!!! to everybody who worked their fingers to the bone, every vendor, actor, and show who make it possible. May the Mighty Odin bless this faire for many years to come and let it grow a bit with each season.
Can't forget the wonderful security team either!!! A huge HUZZAH to them for all of their hard work with parking and garbage and keeping things running smoothly like they did!!!
Quote from: Jon Foster on October 13, 2008, 08:37:32 PM
L. Dale Walter, were you running the kids fencing Sunday?
Both days, in my Porthos costume.
Next two weekends it will be John as D'Kahn the Russian, then I will be back to close.
Dale
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 14, 2008, 03:21:18 PM
Quote from: Jon Foster on October 13, 2008, 08:37:32 PM
L. Dale Walter, were you running the kids fencing Sunday?
Both days, in my Porthos costume.
Next two weekends it will be John as D'Kahn the Russian, then I will be back to close.
Dale
Got it. I'm still trying to learn who's who. For several years I kinda lurked around taking pictures but last year we figured we'd get into garb and join the rest of you crazy folks! ;D
(http://www.pbase.com/jfoster/image/104573247.jpg)
Like I said to you Dale at MMRF on Sunday, your hair certainly looks better now than a long haired wig. :D Great picture of you there that Jon posted.
Quoteyour hair certainly looks better now than a long haired wig.
I liked those wigs. Gave a great frame with the hat.
There were actually 3 wigs. One for photos that was HUGE. One for fights where I hit the ground and ran the possibility of getting junk in it (it was older), and one that was worn for the majority of the stage fights that was not as full as the photo wig.
No one ever seemed to notice that my hair got longer and shorter over the day.
QuoteFor several years I kinda lurked around taking pictures but last year we figured we'd get into garb and join the rest of you crazy folks!
And I am not in "garb". It is a costume. I get paid to wear it. If I wore it for fun it would be garb.
L. Dale (I am not a Rennie, I am an Actor) Walter
Quote from: uhurainmi on October 13, 2008, 11:30:17 AM
Our court plans to (and did)interact with the patrons MORE than other faires.
Whoah. :o Do you realize that in one small sentence, you tossed down quite the gauntlet?
I'm sure you're aware, the area has several faires that are quite competitive with each other, especially in the level of cast interaction. To put in print such a claim could be taken by some people to be a definate challenge.
(although...as everyone knows, actors are such a humble bunch.) ;)
Since
more is a subjective word, and you went so far as to use CAPS to emphasise it, you must feel strongly about your efforts. So...I'm honestly curious to know what your benchmarks are.
What faires, or more specifically to your post, as I read it, what
Court ensembles have you witnessed that were not particularly interactive?
From what vantage point did you observe the Court? As an occasional or once-a-year-visitor, a regular patron, a cast or crew member? What did you observe them doing instead of interacting?
What constitutes
more, as you measure interaction? Is it the number of people interacted with, or is it a percentage of the patrons on site on a given day?
Is 'interaction' as you define it limited to actually speaking to people, or do you include passive lazzi bits and simple acknowledgement (a wave, smile, incline of head) to patrons outside of speaking range?
Do you approach patrons, or do you have them approach you? Do you do endowments, active lazzi bits, or give favors? Does giving out favors matter to you, or do you prefer not to give them?
What portion of the day are you and your ensemble able to be accessible to patrons on a personal level - meaning: not on a stage, or otherwise engaged in a scripted scene?
A high level of interaction is certainly a worthy goal --and if you can empirically prove you do more of it than another faire, then great for your show. You will, however, want to specifically quantify your use of the words of MORE THAN OTHERS, or you're going to have a few people feeling the sting of insult rather than cheering your performance efforts.
If nothing else, your performance will be watched now that you've tossed the gauntlet down on this forum, to see if you've put all of yourself into your peformance, and can lend credence to your statement.
I extend my best wishes to you and your fellow performers for this season. From the pictures it looks like this faire is going to be a lot of fun. Good luck to all!
(*yes, even you Frenchmen! ;) ;D)
QuoteDo you realize that in one small sentence, you tossed down quite the gauntlet?
Easy there book girl, she didn't say WHICH faires, and may not even have been referring to your show, or MY show even. Remember I just run a booth at MMRF- not an employee
Many other faires, which I will not name because I don't want to start a war, DO NOT interact with patrons. One even has a faire culture where patrons are viewed as peasants. YOU know which show I am speaking of. I don't the need "Rumble on the Lake" again. Last time was fun enough...
At Silver Leaf, the show I run, my court works their butt off interacting. Knights of Iron made their name on interaction, and from Robin Hood through the Musketeers to King Arthur back to Robin Hood, the thousands of photos attest to this.
Not everything is an attack, and I don't think this was. Personally I have not watched the MRF court since 2005, so I have no idea what they are doing, so I cannot comment. I can amost certainly guarantee that if they were not interacting, I would have heard. Why people call me with this stuff is beyond me, but they do...
But I do know if Meg (SLRF's Queen Grace) and her court were not working she would have my boot up her backside.
Just remember, there are 200+ Ren faires in the USA. Don't be so egocentric...<g>
L. Dale (just a Frenchman popping balloons at $2 a throw) Walter
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
QuoteDo you realize that in one small sentence, you tossed down quite the gauntlet?
Easy there book girl, she didn't say WHICH faires, and may not even have been referring to your show, or MY show even. Remember I just run a booth at MMRF- not an employee.
/smiling
Oh, no...its cool. I'm easy.
Um...wait a second.... I mean:
My britches aren't in a bunch over this. I will admit, however, that it DID raise an eyebrow when I first read it. The minute you compare one fair against another, feathers are going to get ruffled.
I just wanted to point out that her words could be taken more to heart by certain people.
You and I know that stuff like that happens-- people get worked up over that kind of thing-- but other people may not be aware of the effect of words on a forum board. The littlest stuff goes viral when you least expect it.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
Many other faires, which I will not name because I don't want to start a war, DO NOT interact with patrons. One even has a faire culture where patrons are viewed as peasants. YOU know which show I am speaking of. I don't the need "Rumble on the Lake" again. Last time was fun enough...
I would like to think that a positive by-product of that debacle was that you and I got to know each other a bit better. It got us talking. So it wasn't ALL bad.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
At Silver Leaf, the show I run, my court works their butt off interacting. Knights of Iron made their name on interaction, and from Robin Hood through the Musketeers to King Arthur back to Robin Hood, the thousands of photos attest to this.
And so if someone told you they thought your Court wasn't interacting, you'd want to know the details, and do any appropriate butt kicking that was warranted. Am I right? And it might warrant wearing extra large boots if you had to hear about it on a forum like this.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
Not everything is an attack, and I don't think this was.
No, I don't think she meant to attack anyone. And everyone is entitled to their opinion, popular or otherwise. All opinions are valid. But I will hold to the idea that someone putting forth their opinion, when asked how they formed it, go into specifics. That is so we can all understand how they got to embrace that opinion, and people can decide whether they agree with it or not.
And I think discourse on interaction itself is good -- as performers, there is merit in sharing our ideas and thoughts about how to interact with patrons. With more and more small faires popping up, more people are making that transition from patron to performer. I don't believe that the basic mechanics of our craft need to be guarded like they are Masonic Secrets.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
Personally I have not watched the MRF court since 2005, so I have no idea what they are doing, so I cannot comment. I can amost certainly guarantee that if they were not interacting, I would have heard.
Yes, if they weren't interacting, everyone would have been talking about it, since MiRF has a pretty good rep for interaction. If they weren't living up to it, there would be plenty of gossip.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
Just remember, there are 200+ Ren faires in the USA.
Absolutely correct--which is why I asked about the faires she was referring to-- I'm genuinely curious. I want a discussion on levels of interaction, seen from points of view other than my own.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
Don't be so egocentric...<g>
Well, demmit. Am I really
that transparent? ;D
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 16, 2008, 04:15:52 PM
L. Dale (just a Frenchman popping balloons at $2 a throw) Walter
I hear you can get that done for less in the seedier areas of Paris. ;D
Okay, this whole Court interactions with patrons thing is on the verge of getting out of hand.
First, let me say the person who initially posted the "MORE" comment is, as far as I know, a relative newcomer to being on Cast at a Festival. She appears to be speaking out of newbie enthusiasm (we've all been there, I'm sure) and is very excited about her new role as one of Anna von Kleve's sisters.
Second, during Opening Weekend our Court did do a lot of patron interactions but I for one was not judging them against a standard of any kind. In my opinion, MMRF is what it is and other Festivals are what they are and I wish not to compare us to any other as that would not be fair to anyone, least of all us since we have so much to prove being the newbie Festival on the block.
As lead character of this Festival, it does not concern me if our Cast interacts with patrons more or less than other Festivals, I am only concerned about interacting with patrons at THIS Festival whenever we have a spare moment. At this time, the MMRF Court does not have much that is scripted (just Opening Gate) or scheduled (just Public Court, Parade, and Royal Tea), all the rest of our time is spent walking the lanes and interacting with patrons and merchants or watching a stage act. Our Cast is there to entertain the patrons and have a fun time doing it, there is no room for competitive or comparison thinking regarding other Festivals as it will just get in the way and drag the entire show down, and no one wants that.
"That's my opinion, I could be wrong."
Jim
Comparing casts on faires isn't really fair. All casts I've ever seen work darn hard, (okay, I know one faire, not in MI, where court is not much into interaction, but there are 49 other states and I've been to em all, so no luck getting which one out of me). I know Silverleaf, MiRF both have court casts that get virtually no breaks at all during the day (and you could not pay me to be on court in either of those faires. Not that I'm allergic to hard work, but I like being more of a free agent. I love wandering around on my own). Courts for those faires are all over the place, sunup-sundown.
I personally interacted with everyone who looked like they might like to hit someone with a sword...
QuoteThe littlest stuff goes viral when you least expect it.
Especially when people want it to, as stirring up crap must make them happy.
QuoteI hear you can get that done for less in the seedier areas of Paris.
And now, by special engagement, on the streets of Kleves!
LDW
Quote from: Sir William Sargent on October 16, 2008, 10:58:05 PM
Okay, this whole Court interactions with patrons thing is on the verge of getting out of hand.
First, let me say the person who initially posted the "MORE" comment is, as far as I know, a relative newcomer to being on Cast at a Festival. She appears to be speaking out of newbie enthusiasm (we've all been there, I'm sure) and is very excited about her new role as one of Anna von Kleve's sisters.
I understand that enthusiasm. I do. And as I now suspect, being new to this, perhaps she didn't realize what kind of effect that statement might have, worded the way it was.
And honestly, I don't think this discussion is out of hand. It isn't a flame war. Dale and I were having a discussion (with a little humour sprinkled in), and so far, that's all that has really happened with this issue after I pointed it out.
And also remember, I am not now, nor have ever been on the Court of MiRF or any other faire - so I have NO stake in this, other than my sentimental attachments to MiRF being my home faire, and that I have friends who do, or have, busted their butts working Court there.
Quote from: Sir William Sargent on October 16, 2008, 10:58:05 PM
In my opinion, MMRF is what it is and other Festivals are what they are and I wish not to compare us to any other as that would not be fair to anyone, least of all us since we have so much to prove being the newbie Festival on the block.
Which is also why such a statement as
'we do more...(whatever)' could be offensive to some people.
Yes, every show is a little different. But in the immediate area of MI/OH and probably IN and PA, INTERACTION is an important aspect to all performers at each festival, and there is a rivalry between a lot of faires.
And to a lot of patrons, a Ren Faire is a Ren Faire, is a Ren Faire. Does MMRF have a King/Queen? Does it have Turkey Legs? Does it have Belly Dancers? Then fundamentally, it's not all THAT different than the Faire down the road.
Quote from: Sir William Sargent on October 16, 2008, 10:58:05 PM
As lead character of this Festival, it does not concern me if our Cast interacts with patrons more or less than other Festivals, I am only concerned about interacting with patrons at THIS Festival whenever we have a spare moment. At this time, the MMRF Court does not have much that is scripted (just Opening Gate) or scheduled (just Public Court, Parade, and Royal Tea), all the rest of our time is spent walking the lanes and interacting with patrons and merchants or watching a stage act.
That's great. Then your faire should succeed.
Quote from: Sir William Sargent on October 16, 2008, 10:58:05 PM
Our Cast is there to entertain the patrons and have a fun time doing it, there is no room for competitive or comparison thinking regarding other Festivals as it will just get in the way and drag the entire show down, and no one wants that.
There is something to be said for setting
goals and striving to be regarded as the best -- as long as you never rest, deciding that you ARE the best, and go around gloating about it. Competitive spirit - as long as it remains a
friendly competition, is a great way to keep everyone motivated and focused on what is important.
If I have taken anything here said to heart, please try to understand. Four years of traveling and talking and phone calls all over the US to patrons, playtrons, cast, crew, entertainment, merchants, owners, and staff of other festivals. Getting answers to a simple question, "What would your dream festival be like?" And let me tell you, it hasn't been easy. You have this festival against that festival, you have this entertainment troupe against that entertainment troupe, you have this court against that court. You have this Queen against that King!
I WILL NOT HAVE IT AT MMRF!!!!
MMRF is not there to be competitive with any other festival. It is not there to compaire itself to MiRF or Silverleaf or Mayfaire or ORF or any other festival. It is it's own identity. We set our selves to be different. We are at a time of year that doesn't interfere with any of the known festivals. (sorry for GV, I wasn't aware of you at the time). We delyed a week because of Fishers! We are doing a type of festival that isn't done here in Michigan! We are NOT in compitition with anyone! All we wanted to do was to bring together what everyone wanted into one festival.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 17, 2008, 08:05:14 AM
I personally interacted with everyone who looked like they might like to hit someone with a sword...
LDW
lol i wanted to play but to much of a pain to take my armour all off.. so i bugged you with my camera instead.
Quote from: Lady Gwyndolyn on October 17, 2008, 12:46:47 PM
If I have taken anything here said to heart, please try to understand. Four years of traveling and talking and phone calls all over the US to patrons, playtrons, cast, crew, entertainment, merchants, owners, and staff of other festivals. Getting answers to a simple question, "What would your dream festival be like?" And let me tell you, it hasn't been easy. You have this festival against that festival, you have this entertainment troupe against that entertainment troupe, you have this court against that court. You have this Queen against that King!
I WILL NOT HAVE IT AT MMRF!!!!
MMRF is not there to be competitive with any other festival. It is not there to compaire itself to MiRF or Silverleaf or Mayfaire or ORF or any other festival. It is it's own identity. We set our selves to be different. We are at a time of year that doesn't interfere with any of the known festivals. (sorry for GV, I wasn't aware of you at the time). We delyed a week because of Fishers! We are doing a type of festival that isn't done here in Michigan! We are NOT in compitition with anyone! All we wanted to do was to bring together what everyone wanted into one festival.
Which is why I made a dress just for this faire and this faire only.
Okay, the truth is anything for a new dress. Which reminds me, I have snaps to sew. I just got done making a bear for a friend of mine that looks like her garb. So it's time to sew the closures that no one can see. Yes, I use snaps. I should be spanked! Snort.
Back to the debate at hand though....
No, it is not fair (or is that faire?) to compare two different faires, festivals or events. They are all different - and different does not equal bad.
But I also think that when someone tosses out the statement: "I think we did it MORE and BETTER", someone is going to come back with a "Prove it." no matter if you are talking about Court interaction or your ability to crochet pot holders.
That 'prove it' statement made by Katie I don't think was an argument or made out of a line in the sand. Patron interaction is crucial to faires of any size or duration and it is important to discuss how that can be increased or better managed. There are many actors and managers in this group, it could turn into a valid and informative discussion if the "My Court is better than your Court" type statements are left out of it.
Quote from: Lady Gwyndolyn on October 17, 2008, 12:46:47 PM
You have this festival against that festival, you have this entertainment troupe against that entertainment troupe, you have this court against that court. You have this Queen against that King!
I WILL NOT HAVE IT AT MMRF!!!!
Wendy unfortunately that isn't your choice. People will make comparisons, and vote with their dollars. What goes on here, in a forum that represents maybey 5% of your attendance isn't really what matters. If every rennie came every day it still is not near enough to make your show fly.
What matters is what do Mr. & Mrs. America and their kids think. Did they have a good time? Will they come back?
Acts get compared all the time. Randy Scott of the Duelists who were performing on the same stage the Don Juan and Miguel were a year earlier told me "People act as if we have them tied up out back..." Again, these comparisons don't mean a thing. What does, is draw, hold, and are the patrons (notice I said PATRONS not rennies) enjoying themselves.
For the most part, I think they were.
Rennies are an odd sub class when it comes to entertainment. Most people will see a show once, but rennes are often there every day. They complain when a show is the same every time, even if it is spot on perfect, but Mr. & Mrs. America will see it once. THEY would much rather have a perfect show than one where the performers spend time goofing around ESPECIALLY on inside jokes, which make patrons feel like they are outsiders. That is why rennies like music acts. They have different sets. That, and they are usually close to the ale tent. <g>
There are shows, and acts that are vastly superior to other ones. The Swordsmen are, hands down, the best 2 man swordfighting team out there. I have seen them all. They draw, hold, and entertain. They also charge quite a bit for this, but their draw is worth the cost, if your show can afford it.
Which comes back to where we started, in comparing faires. The bottom line is BUDGET. Given an unlimited budget you can have an amazing faire. Get Kenneth Brannagh to play King. Hire a Hollywood stunt team to do your stunt show on an actual pirate ship (built by a special effects team). End your day not with a "Fare thee well..." but with fireworks that fill the sky. In short, be Disney. But The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World pulled 17,060,000 people last year which goes a LONG way to pay for such things.
Having been there longer than just about all of you (That's 27 YEARS folks) I saw MRF in 1980. I was at SLRF in 1999. I opened (and closed) CRF this year, and I was there for opening day of MMRF. Given this perspective I would say that MMRF has made a fine start. They did not spend far more than they could ever make as at CRF to have a HUGE show year one. Their acts are fun to watch, and people seem to be enjoying them. They could use more vendors, but I understand they are coming. They are navigating dangerous waters ESPECIALLY In this economy, and EVERYONE is trying to make a go of it. That means a lot.
I think they are doing just fine. If they keep their horns pulled in, focus on patron enjoyment, and have slow steady growth, they should be OK.
L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
Theatrical Production Company
Quote from: Katie Bookwench on October 17, 2008, 08:44:27 AM
There is something to be said for setting goals and striving to be regarded as the best -- as long as you never rest, deciding that you ARE the best, and go around gloating about it. Competitive spirit - as long as it remains a friendly competition, is a great way to keep everyone motivated and focused on what is important.
NO NO NO! I want a WAR. A real one, with guns. I want to see Tracey in a camo court dress running through the woods with an M16. I want to see Caroline (Queen Elizabeth), Meg (Queen Grace), and Paula (Queen Anne) in a STEEL CAGE MATCH to the DEATH!
We'll see who is best once and for all!
LDW
I want to see Caroline (Queen Elizabeth), Meg (Queen Grace), and Paula (Queen Anne) in a STEEL CAGE MATCH to the DEATH!
We'll see who is best once and for all!
LDW
[/quote]
Now there's an idea for a stage show! LOL
Do we get to see these fine ladies in leather and chainmaille armor if they were to have it out in a STEEL CAGE MATCH to the DEATH? :D
Quote from: Guinevere of Leonesse on October 18, 2008, 03:52:17 PM
Do we get to see these fine ladies in leather and chainmaille armor if they were to have it out in a STEEL CAGE MATCH to the DEATH? :D
Only if they are leather and chainmaille bikinis!
Looking to make some $$$ on this one...
LDW
Quote from: nliedel on October 17, 2008, 06:22:07 PM
Which is why I made a dress just for this faire and this faire only.
Okay, the truth is anything for a new dress. Which reminds me, I have snaps to sew. I just got done making a bear for a friend of mine that looks like her garb. So it's time to sew the closures that no one can see. Yes, I use snaps. I should be spanked! Snort.
Snaps?!? My goodness me! (demmed ripping idea, that).
In fact, I got to see a gown with snaps this very day -- it worked really well.
Maybe I should rethink the old hook-n-eye routine for some of my closures.
/off to work on her cammo court dress
And, by the way... Thank you for that image, Dale. LOL - I snorted just like Nancy when I read it! :D
So I went today...
Such a beautiful day - and a lovely site as well. My compliments to everyone who worked so hard to make the site look good. You all did such a fantastic job.
There was a positive energy in the air, it was great. I can see it growing by leaps and bounds.
Sybilla, it was a pleasure to meet you today -- I'm just sorry you had to put up with my sister. ;) I am at your service, my Lady, if there is anything you might need in the future.
Quote from: L Dale Walter on October 18, 2008, 04:31:45 PM
Only if they are leather and chainmaille bikinis!
Looking to make some $$$ on this one...
LDW
My dearest husband can make the chainmaille bikins! LOL
Quote from: Guinevere of Leonesse on October 18, 2008, 07:34:04 PM
My dearest husband can make the chainmaille bikins! LOL
You know, winter is coming soon Gwen. He better make them fur lined. :D
Quote from: Margaret on October 19, 2008, 08:21:49 AM
Quote from: Guinevere of Leonesse on October 18, 2008, 07:34:04 PM
My dearest husband can make the chainmaille bikins! LOL
You know, winter is coming soon Gwen. He better make them fur lined. :D
They are stainless steel bikinis and they are easy to warm up before putting them on. :)
A lovely site and a delightful time, overall. I was cold, my own fault. The sun shining through the trees and the falls of leaves was simply enchanting. I have some negative and specific positives, but I will send those to the Duchess personally. Nothing that would make, or break the faire. It was almost all pure joy.
Quote from: nliedel on October 20, 2008, 07:05:09 AM
A lovely site and a delightful time, overall. I was cold, my own fault. The sun shining through the trees and the falls of leaves was simply enchanting. I have some negative and specific positives, but I will send those to the Duchess personally. Nothing that would make, or break the faire. It was almost all pure joy.
AHEM....
Pictures?!?!?
Quote from: Katie Bookwench on October 20, 2008, 12:31:13 PM
Quote from: nliedel on October 20, 2008, 07:05:09 AM
A lovely site and a delightful time, overall. I was cold, my own fault. The sun shining through the trees and the falls of leaves was simply enchanting. I have some negative and specific positives, but I will send those to the Duchess personally. Nothing that would make, or break the faire. It was almost all pure joy.
AHEM....
Pictures?!?!?
I forgot the camera. I still don't have a pic of my new gown. I've looked online, hoping someone caught it, but nada. Oh well...
nliedel your dress is very bewitching with all the pearls and the golden color of the fabric coordinating with the leaves of Autumn. You where talking to my wife at our both Ren Wear. We went to get the camera but our daughter had it by the time she came back you were gone. Please stop by again so we may get a picture.
Quote from: sandmanvw on October 22, 2008, 08:11:07 AM
nliedel your dress is very bewitching with all the pearls and the golden color of the fabric coordinating with the leaves of Autumn. You where talking to my wife at our both Ren Wear. We went to get the camera but our daughter had it by the time she came back you were gone. Please stop by again so we may get a picture.
Alas the season is over for me. I have to go to Grand Haven this weekend and take care of my dad while his wife is away and I've GOT to get chapters in this book done that my editor wants by mid November. I have the thing all mapped out in my head, but it's having a hard time coming together. It will, they always do. The closer to the time I have to turn it in, the better I write. LOL!!
A steel cage match to the death?! Only if I can bring my weapons. I know how to use them. ;-)
Quote from: Madge Estes on October 25, 2008, 08:51:34 AM
A steel cage match to the death?! Only if I can bring my weapons. I know how to use them. ;-)
Really? Meg said the same thing!
Paula?
JUST KIDDING! (have not heard from Meg)
That would be interesting however...
LDW