Expect some changes in the performing cast. Latest word is that the Mayor's Entourage and Terpsichory as groups are being cut from the cast, (no word if the Mayor is staying on as a solo character) as well as some performing groups yet to be announced. I assume it's part of Carr's plan to reorganize the cast.
In my own experience the one year I had a individual contract as clergy, I ended up falling in with a group of other guys playing clergy because I just wasn't that strong an actor to really do the solo bit I had created. So I understand how groups can become havens for cast members who don't do that much.
But I think well-led performing groups can also be a way to mentor new cast members, so I'm worried the baby may be going out with the bath water in some cases.
BTW my source was one of the members of the Mayor's Entourage who posted it on her Facebook page.
In a more positive light there seems to be some action on the Ten Seconds of Harmony site
http://www.tensecondsofharmony.com/
Was the source for both Mayor's and Terpsichory?
I know the Terps have been practicing for the season and just had one new member taken in so is it possible they haven't been told yet?
Yup it was from the same person.
I understand them wanting to change things up a bit to keep things fresh. Just hope they don't swing the ax too hard and we lose everyone. I think we have great street cast, provided they don't all rely on being a "kooky/eccentric " character. Then we just have a village of kooky/eccentric characters.
The peasants are wonderful! I hope they keep them. They were at Chippewa this weekend, and looked like they were having a great time interacting with everyone. Not sure if they were there for fun, or were asked to come. We need more of that.
It is also my understanding that the owner is hoping to rely more on the playtrons. I have mixed feelings about this. While I love to share my love of Fest with others, and to pass on some magic to little ones if I can, I don't want that to be a burden either. I don't think it is right of him to expect people who pay to attend, pay for entertainment, garb, food and drink at HIS fair should have to carry that load either. Especially if it is unbeknowst to them.
The Artistic Director has said he has a (2? year) plan to make it more of a "professional" cast that relies on a higher number of paid street characters with clearer expectations and better training.
He feels a lot of the street characters with volunteer contracts are there more for the after hours parties than for entertaining the customers. His plan would be to still use some volunteer actors, but they probably won't get campground space and he has even said he might not want them on site after hours. He has said they would have to audition, but might be treated more like an "advanced season pass holder"/playtron. At least that's what he was kicking around as of November 2010
Bill Peltzman (The Mayor) just confirmed
" the lord mayor and his entourage. They are no more."
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on June 13, 2011, 01:02:32 PM
Then we just have a village of kooky/eccentric characters.
From those I have known over the years, in character and out, that pretty much describes the faire in its entirety.
Ya think? :D
GP-that plan makes a little sense. Maybe I am getting old.
It seems to me most of the after hours parties that i have attended seem to be organized charity events/dregs in the dark/talent show type of stuff. Most of us older folgie adults have a beer or two, visit a bit, buy their ticket to a raffle/or five bucks for a pin etc. and go home.
Or they are private parties at a specific booth, where it is low key and everyone goes home/to the campground after a few.
I will also agree that SOME of the cast needs some direction, and the "herd" needed to be thinned a bit. Some characters out there were awful, and it frustrated me that they got a way IN, and it took a spot for someone who may have been much better.
And the trouble making offenders don't need a pass for after hours. If they can't get their Fest on in the ten hours we are open, then that is their problem. I know I can, and most of the people I have ever worked with or hung out there could too. ( I am speaking generally here, not specific to certain days/nights ;) :D )
I think Carr's biggest hurdle (besides the drama and whining that is going to ensue) is dispelling some myths about faire. (The Orgy we have every weekend etc. ;) -still have yet to find that myself.)
Yeah I think it has possibilities, but I'm worried about how many talented veterans we might lose in the transition.
Those after hours parties... they are more of the CKC kids and some of the booths. Most of the actors themselves die after a day, and after 2 we are certainly zombie like. Then again maybe that is just my group, I personally can't make it up to many "parties" after a day of entertaining. I know if you don't work hard then you have the energy. But at the same time if I manage to get enough pixie sticks in me it is nice for me to have after hours to interact with my fellow actors who aren't hip high and actually talk about what I want to.
There are some who need to go, but for the most part I think they are aiming at the wrong targets. I realize that the booths are hard work, but I happen to know that my husband who works for the fencing booth certainly looks the part of a slacker actor, but he only works 1/2 the day then goes to sit around, talk, eat, and watch shows with fellow boothies, who also look like slacker actors. They need to thin the performers a bit *I have a few that I wonder how much work they really do all day* and know who is a performer so they can see how hard we work as opposed to lumping in people who are boothies or well dress playtrons.
And I agree... playtrons should not be expected to fill gaps. They paid to be there, they should have no responsibility but to have a good time semi responsibly. I am not "paid" to be there, but I signed my contract which makes me promise to be up there and entertain during my day and in turn I get food. But if I pay to get in you bet your sweet booty that I am not working to entertain anyone unless I have worked it out with my fans to do just that.
Oh and GP: It was a 3 year plan and this was his year of don't worry nothing is going to change or at least that is how he made it sound at the end of last year.
It is my hope that Terpsichory may return in some fashion on a volunteer contract. I have occasionally sat in on their rehearsals and provided music for their non-fest gigs, and I know they work hard and have talent and, in many cases, extensive formal training in dance.
It is my observation that, despite their careful, artistic, energetic performances, and accurate period costuming, the fest crowds showed little interest in their show.
As a booth owner I can't help but agree that some of the booth helpers are probably more of a problem after hours than cast with volunteer contracts. Heck I wonder how many of the volunteer cast even stay in the campground these days.
Jewel, you hit it right on the head. I think it is a much younger base of "troublemakers" that I HOPE the Director is targeting his wrath if you will, to get rid of. As a "boothie" some days, and a playtron the days I don't work. I don't want to worry about entertaining someone.
I do not have the talent the performers do, but I think we boothies put on a "good show" most of the time. However, beyond my basic few lines to draw in customers, or to delight a four year old and show him/her the magic of Fest, or trade sarcastic comments with adults, that is the about how much responsibility that I want.
GP- I hope the truly talented veterans, he keeps. But there are few more he can get rid of completely that no one would notice. I could give him a list. LOL ;)
I also think perhaps Mr. Director instilled a little fear to force some to punch up their stale act a little. They have had since last fall to think about how to polish things up. If they are truly as good or as professional as they want to be, stepping up and showing Mr. Director he is wrong shouldn't be a problem.
I think also, this Fest needs to advertise the fact that a couple of their acts have been on AGT. I know. roll your eyes, but patrons would eat that up with a spoon. Even I endured a horrible episode last week hoping to see my Dreggy peeps on there.
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on June 13, 2011, 01:02:32 PM
It is also my understanding that the owner is hoping to rely more on the playtrons.
Wouldn't that be like firing all the employees at Saks 5th Avenue and expecting the customers of Walmart to fill their shoes? ::) ;D :D
Much of the CKC kids issues are mitigated by putting most booths in the hands of orgs. Not many CKC booths these days.
Ok. So you want to split hairs? I meant the "CKC" type trouble makers in that general age group. Face it, that is what most "kids" that age group are doing. They are unsupervised by hovering parents, and/or exhausted booth/shift managers. Mr. Director is smart to want to weed them out and make the go home to annoy their parents once cannon is shot off, and booths are cleaned up/shut down for the night/weekend.
There is no way in h*ll I would let my fifteen year old (OR my twenty year old for that matter) hang out at Fest after hours with out me, or one of her many Fest "Uncles" to either protect her; or rat her out. ;D
Yet I suspect 70% of the pain in the weed puller calls SS receives is from under age brats who have stolen whatever isn't nailed down, destroyed property, underage drinking/smoking, loud behavior etc.
Change may suck for some, but it is coming, and like parking in the pit, it may not be so bad as everyone thought.
losing the entourage is one thing . . . losing the Mayor?
I dunno, I hope someone has a plan.
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on June 13, 2011, 01:02:32 PM
The peasants are wonderful! I hope they keep them. They were at Chippewa this weekend, and looked like they were having a great time interacting with everyone. Not sure if they were there for fun, or were asked to come. We need more of that.
Thanks for the compliment! The Peasants were at Chippewa for two weekends as a sort of audition for CVRF. We had a great time and some of us will be back for a day trip on the 19th. After dealing with the drama that is MNRF, it is comforting to deal with the management at both CVRF and Siouxland (which is where we were at between the weekends at Chippewa). I think it's a pretty good bet that you'll see Peasants-for-Hire at CVRF next year.
Some of our members were part of the Mayor's Entourage, and some of the Terps would come dance with us when we had our Peasant Dance rehearsals. To my knowledge, they were informed just a few days ago about the cancellation of their group contracts. I haven't heard anything about any of the peasant group yet. We contract as a group to other festivals, but have individual contracts at MNRF.
While I think change is a good thing, some of this is just NUTS.
I have been going to MNRF for a long time now, and seeing the things that have been slowly taking shape the past few years has disgusted me...
As Escherblacksmith said, losing the entourage is one thing, but the MAYOR? How long has Bill been out there? I've lost count...
I really do hope someone has a plan, and I understand the need/want to keep things fresh, but some of this is....something I can't even describe.
Its going to be an interesting year...
I just got an Email from a Terpsichory member on a different topic so I asked for confirmation/denial of the rumor they have been cut as well.
-------
Update: Terpsichory has been cut from the budget, but they are currently considering whether or not to perform under a Volunteer Contract.
Quote from: groomporter on June 14, 2011, 12:10:51 PM
I just got an Email from a Terpsichory member on a different topic so I asked for confirmation/denial of the rumor they have been cut as well.
-------
Update: Terpsichory has been cut from the budget, but they are currently considering whether or not to perform under a Volunteer Contract.
*sigh* Might it be easier to make a list of who HASNT been cut, than who has >.<
Quote from: groomporter on June 13, 2011, 04:15:08 PM
As a booth owner I can't help but agree that some of the booth helpers are probably more of a problem after hours than cast with volunteer contracts. Heck I wonder how many of the volunteer cast even stay in the campground these days.
I'm going to put on my night crew hat for probably the last time for a while.
Those who are troublesome during show hours are typically worse at night.
Those who bust their butts during show hours I almost never see (Hi Jewel!)
CKC used to be the biggest offenders but I haven't seen as much of that in the last 2 years or so.
There is one booth/game that I won't mention but breeds major issues. No one on here.
GroomPorter, you might want to warn your employees about the dangers of whippets(look it up if you aren't aware) and doing it in the open, and talking back to night crew, one almost got punched in the throat two years ago for being an idiot.
There are a few bad seeds in the Jaycees but it's not the group as a whole
Entertainment only tends to cause issues in the way of running around on front gate or stages which you aren't supposed to do. Beyond that most are pretty low key in their shenanigans.
Hi RandomGirl!
Wow....Guess I am glad that I have never aspired to be anything other then a playtron!...
I really hope management isn't going to try to rely on playtrons to "help them out". If they are, they are not very wise and are playing with fire. Playtrons are loose cannons. You never know what you are going to get with them. Some may be in the mood to play and others may not be. Playtrons are under no onus to entertain anyone and if they want to be rude to someone who mistakes them as cast and bothers them at the wrong time, they can and will be. If they weed out street characters and rely more on playtrons that could lead to some bad experiences for the regular patrons and some complaints to management. Also, we all know there are some playtrons that get hammered to the beejeesus out there, and you really never know what to expect out of them! Catch one of them at the wrong time and look out!....
As a playtron, I try to be friendly to regular patrons, because I know they have know way of knowing if I work there or not. Actually, most seem to think I do. But, I really am not always in the mood to deal with them, especially at the end of the day when I am tired and trying to get the heck out of there! When I am not in the mood to play, I won't play along and I can get short with people who bother me. I try not to, but like I said above. I don't work there and I don't have to deal with the regular patrons if I don't want to....
All in all, I think it would be terribly unwise of management to try to use the playtrons....
Quote from: Storm on June 29, 2011, 08:15:57 PM
I really hope management isn't going to try to rely on playtrons to "help them out".
The description of the plan from the artistic director is
not to rely on playtrons to supplement the cast, but rather, to treat cast members who have volunteer/unpaid contracts more like "VIP playtrons" in stead of them being full cast members. I interpret what he has said is that volunteer performers may be treated more like dayworkers/temps who get in free to perform with the cast and get a perk or two like food coupons, but may no longer be allowed space in the participant campground, and potentially may not have the privilege to be on site after-hours.
He seems to feel that too many of the volunteer cast are just there to play during the day and/or party at night as opposed to really entertain the guests. I can't deny that's a concern, but what's baby vs bathwater?
To tell you the truth Chas...I don't know how that VIP playtron thing would go over. It seems kinda laughable to me. I mean really whats the benefit if they can't camp or stay after hours? For free admission and maybe some food coupons it seems like a lot of work for next to nothing. I am guessing they would have to follow cast rules when they were there? They have hours they would have to be there rain or shine, they could not drink, etc. If that's the case it just seems to me it would be much easier to drop down the 65 bucks or so for a season pass and the 30 dollars or so for Fest Friends (if you want a place to escape to) and be able to come and go whenever you want, have a few beers, etc and not have to worry about following any cast rules. It just seems to me that there is not a lot of return value in this VIP playtron thing when for 65 dollars out of your own pocket you can do your own thing and be your own boss.
That is exactly the point. It weeds out the leeches. You should be there to entertain, not to soak up the day to party and socialize after hours. THAT is a perk for those of us working way too hard to make the patron's day special.
And a playtron is not a legal liability. Nor is a VIP-like playtron.
This will thin the 'entertainer' herd a bit and make those that are left stick out a bit more. Also a potential benefit.
Thank you for clarifying Chas. I agree with Storm. If it were me "volunteering" to be a VIP Playtron Cast Member, I'd tell Carr and The Owner to get bent. I'd rather plunk down season pass money, or attend a couple of days and be done with it.
It will be interesting to see which "leeches" this weeds out.
Which is fine with me, some cast members think wayyyyyyy too much of their self. At least from my playtron/boothie perspective. And I never understood what was so effing special about them besides the decent garb they were wearing. Last year was the first year in many that I found the cast (besides the peasants) to be engaging. Funny that was the year that Carr mentioned changes were coming.
Terpsichory has not been cut per se, but our paying contract was not renewed. The reason we were given is budgetary, NOT that we are an inflated "group." We are not a street act but a stage show, and so Carr's new vision does not apply to us this year, as the first year was only meant to apply to street.
We have been offered and have accepted a volunteer contract this year. We do have several new members and practice is coming along great.
It is also true that we were not informed of this until very late, and we basically had to rope Anita into a personal meeting to get any answers; our director talked with Carr on many occasions and all he would say was that there were some changes that would affect us. It seems that many people were (mis)informed of our "not returning" before we were, and I am really not happy in the way that this was handled by the entertainment management. I understand budgetary concerns and while I'm a bit hurt that we, out of all the dance groups, were not renewed as paying, none of us are out there for the money. We all elected, at least for this year, to continue as volunteers. However, the way things were handled and other actions by entertainment management over the past couple of years has many of us to feel that we are not respected as performers. It's a shame, as we are one of the few groups that strives to be at least mostly historically accurate AND also family friendly. I love the fantasy and bawdy aspects of Fest, don't get me wrong, but when management has made it clear that family-friendly is the direction they want to move Fest, and a certain degree of historical accuracy is at least required, you would think that a group that fulfills both of those categories would be more appreciated.
At any rate, we'll see you all out there.
Okay I guess I have more to say on this issue...
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on July 01, 2011, 06:59:11 PM
...some cast members think wayyyyyyy too much of their self. At least from my playtron/boothie perspective. And I never understood what was so effing special about them besides the decent garb they were wearing.
Kate, I totally agree with this. When I was a boothie, I always felt like performers thought they were so much more important than us. With Jaycees I felt a bit more appreciated, but that's because we had the beer, I think. ;D And as for entertainment value, it is often boothies who interact with patrons more than performers. For me, when I was a boothie it was easier for me to "entertain" patrons, because I could do it within the context of my interaction with them while selling chocolate/beer. As a performer, I find it hard to go up to a group of people and pull off a bit, because I'm a strong introvert and NOT formally trained as an actor. Then again, as a member of a STAGE ACT, I should not be expected to perform on the streets as well. (Although for some reason, Terpsichory members are expected to entertain on street as well... but the Morris dancers, Scottish dancers, musical acts, and other stage acts like the Danger Committee, Tuey, Puke & Snot, etc are not expected to be out on street when not on stage. That is extremely irksome.)
As to the volunteer contract/VIP-playtron thing, I don't see how it's less of a legal liability. We signed the exact same code-of-conduct contract as we did last year (no alcohol between cannons, etc), we are still members of the cast, etc. I understand the need to weed out people who are just there to party after hours, but I think it's really unfair to punish those of us who work hard all day and want a bit of downtime with our friends after hours.
I also never get drunk after hours, and the events I have attended have all been either small, private, quiet gatherings or Fest-approved events such as charity events, talent show, cast party, etc. We have not found out for sure yet if we get hard passes vs paper, campground privileges or comp tickets/food books, but if we do not get hard passes or comp ticket, I'm going to be pretty ticked off and next year may consider returning to booth work. I certainly won't be doing any more parades/promos for Fest if we don't get comp tickets for our time.
Also, as a boothie, at least you can hang around and play when not working, or take a few days off, and drink. I don't usually drink anyway at Fest, but as a cost member, even a volunteer one, if I want to have ONE DRINK, and I get caught, I can get kicked out of Fest. I can deal with that if there are other benefits (comp tix, being able to do something I love, namely play my flute, out there) but if playing my flute is the only benefit left to me, after this year it might not be enough. :(
Quote from: William_MacKean on June 30, 2011, 06:24:33 PM
That is exactly the point. It weeds out the leeches. You should be there to entertain, not to soak up the day to party and socialize after hours. THAT is a perk for those of us working way too hard to make the patron's day special.
Yes, true that entertainers should be there to entertain. However, if we are not paid, it is not a JOB, so it should also be enjoyable for the entertainer. If all of our perks are cut and we are not respected by entertainment management, it can stop being fun for us really fast, which will affect the way we perform. It sucks that our group will not be paid this year, but most of us are fine with that; if they try to make us into "VIP playtrons," however, I do not think that will go over well.
**sorry for the multiple posts... I am a bit worked up :D >:( :P**
Let it out, girl!
As a booth worker watching on the side lines I feel bad for many of my cast/performer friends. I hope that whatever they are "moving towards" that it benefits the folks that make the show what it is (the ones who are actually entertaining the pay/playtrons NOT just casterbating or patting themselves on the back). Without quality, trained, appreciated performers, the people paying to get in will stop coming.
Just want to put my 2 cents in:
I was a volunteer cast member last year. It is a lot of work for nothing unless you enjoy making people's days (Which I truly enjoyed)
As for the issues after dark - i think its combination of all groups. There are bad apples in each one and when they get together after dark.....need I say more ;D Although, from what I saw last year most of the major issues involved paid cast members. Most of the volunteers went home after gate closing (we were too tired after a day of working). I don't know all the issues that happened. I only know about the ones Carr discussed during the morning meeting as a reminder of what not to do after dark.
@CR - I am so glad to hear Terp is coming back! Congrats! I can't wait to see the group :D
I can agree that if you are not working a both or a paid street character you shouldn't be allowed on site after hours. That is a privilege not a necessity.
I for one would love a to have a volunteer contract when I play my FOP but I have no expectation of staying late, yea a place to rest and eat would be nice. I see to many people expecting everything and giving their everything in return. Like others have said most performers are beat after a 10 hour day. I have felt that too. But I also like the idea of playing Lord F whenever I want. With my work schedule I can't be out there every weekend.
I hear about all the trouble the "kids" are causing. Is there not an age limit for being on-site after hours? It sounds like the younger ones are ruining it for everyone and maybe Carr just needs to limit who has after hours privileges. I'm no mastermind and don't intend to know everything but as others have said there needs to be some weeding.
I also feel that Carr and his money hungry hands are going to ruin this Faire. There are better ways to weed out the riff ref without getting rid of long time cast members. Obviously if you have been on cast for a millennia than you show a true a passion for fest. Maybe Carr needs to open his eyes a little bit wider.
Yes, I am speaking off of what I hear on here and hear from others talking so maybe I am way off base but for crying out loud he makes enough money of tickets and the horrendous prices for food he can afford more acts and performers.
There is an age limit for staying in the campground unless you are staying with a parent or guardian.
And it's not so much Carr's money hungry hands, -he's is given a budget and he has to work within it, but he does have his view of how things work... When Carr took on the job of Artistic Director he claimed he took it on for no pay out of love for the show -I don't know if that is still the case, (or if he gets some form of indirect compensation).
MG,
I just have to ask, what is casterbating?? ;D
CR-I for one, am glad the Terps are back. I hope you do get something great out of fest this season. I for one, lost my Fest Spirit a few years back. Finally found it last year, and had a great season.
I don't think *most* of the street performers make any real money out there, I think most do it for the love of the big show, and if they are lucky; they break even. I know that is why I do it. I want to make others love the magic that is Fest just as much as I do.
Dear God, only 39 days people!
I assume it's similar to "masturbation theater" -doing skits that are mainly just "in-jokes" and therefore are only really entertaining to other participants. Entertaining ourselves instead of the audience.
Thanks, GP. I kinda thought that was it. We had a few of those types bluster in to our shop last year. They sucked all the air out of the shop. I felt deflated after they left. :P
@giggles - thanks!
@Kate - Yeah, I lost my Fest spirit for a couple of years, but actually last year was a great season. I am hoping this season will be, too-- I don't do it for the money, so I really don't mind being unpaid. I just hope being shifted to volunteer doesn't lead to being treated like crap.
@Sleepy - with all due respect, I think people who volunteer 12 hours a day, 2-3 days a weekend for 7 weeks should absolutely be allowed the privilege of staying after hours. That is the difference between playtrons and volunteer contracts - obviously, we're all out at Fest mainly because we love it. But while playtrons are, of course, free to come and go as they please, not subject to MAF rules, etc, volunteers make a committment to be out there at least half time (at least all the groups I know of that get hard passes have a half-time minimum committment, otherwise you get a paper pass and can only stay until 10), rain or shine, hot or cold, and I think we're entitled to the privilege of staying after hours in exchange. If someone just wants to stay after hours and don't care about the show, there are many booths that hire part-time workers.
I'm certainly not saying all problem-causers are booth workers-- not at all. I'm just saying if someone really wants to just partake in the orgies that apparently happen after hours (which I've never seen...), there's an easier way to get there than a volunteer entertainment contract!
Not to mention, Char.
"Entertainers" are always ON. You can't drop the act. Ever. You always have to be gracious regardless of how you feel. If you are having a bad day/feel lousy/you are exhausted; the patrons don't really care. They will expect you to suck it up. :P
You don't want to do that Sleepy, do you? You like being able to sit down in our shop (or another shop/show) where you can be Sleepy/Steve and not worry about any kind of character or rules etc.
I dunno, maybe talk to Giggles to weigh the pros and cons, and try out next year if you think you want to do it.
I would think being "on" from 9-7 would be difficult.
Just my 2 cents.
Quote from: Charlotte Rowan on July 12, 2011, 10:23:55 PM
I'm certainly not saying all problem-causers are booth workers-- not at all. I'm just saying if someone really wants to just partake in the orgies that apparently happen after hours (which I've never seen...), there's an easier way to get there than a volunteer entertainment contract!
I'm so glad your group will be back again this year!! :)
As far as the orgies that happen after hours, yeah I've never seen it either.. (though I've heard some random stories, from things that went on a few years ago) :P, but then again I am in bed by 10:00 pm (Muffin O'clock) so I miss a lot.. ha! Things may have been crazier several years ago, but from what I see now (we've been camping for 3 years now) its really pretty quite on the grounds other than those few nights when big things are going on (Talent Show/Cast Party/Beer for Boobs, etc..)
There are a few groups that stay in the campgrounds that I'd like to see gone, the ones who stay up all night drinking and hollering, which turn into the people you hear retching by the Priv's at 5 am... :P *gross* (and seriously I am going to make a sign that says NO BARFING and put it by the priv behind our tent, LOL!) These people do not need to be there.. What good are you to the patrons if you are nursing a hangover all day just to feel better by the end of the faire day and get ready to party afterhours, and make so much noise that you keep the rest of us who have been up since the crack of dawn, worked all day and been responsible awake!!
It will be interesting to see who remains this year.. I hope this new direction breathes life back into the show, and it is filled with people who actually want to be there to make the day special for the patrons. Staying after hours, camping, etc. is a privilege and should be respected.. There are rules to be followed, and it can still be loads of fun even when following the rules..
*I really hope to see my fest spirit return this year, I have a good feeling that it will*
Can't wait to see you all!!! :-*
Interestingly enough, most all the cast members have not received contracts yet... so most do not even know their status. As Terpsichory did not find out their group status until very late for a group, the same is likely to be for the individuals contracts... paid or volunteer - leaving decisions to be cast until the last minute and the overall opening chaos to ensue.
While Lord Spicer and I fit into the paid entertainers group as a part of court (and all of court is contracted individually), we do not make enough to cover more than the expenses for 2 weekends (if that, since I am high maintenance)... and more interestingly we make less than 1/4 of what court members made 10 years ago. What does that say about the tenor of payment history of our festival?
Hmmm... or is it just saying the Spicers aren't really entertainers? It is possible!
@ Lady Spicer: Do you suppose they will juts have them for us to sign at cast call that Saturday? I feel I would be too optimistic saying dress press :P
Its been known to happen in the past! Or, we do get them the week before and have to turn them in at the first cast call!
Muffin-well said!!!!!!!
Quote from: Lady Spicer on July 13, 2011, 05:21:20 PM
Interestingly enough, most all the cast members have not received contracts yet... so most do not even know their status. As Terpsichory did not find out their group status until very late for a group, the same is likely to be for the individuals contracts... paid or volunteer - leaving decisions to be cast until the last minute and the overall opening chaos to ensue.
Hardly anything unusual. I remember a number of years when contracts when finalized at dress press, and at least one time when a number of contracts weren't signed until the first Saturday.
First weekend is pretty typical.
Yeah there was a year when a number of street characters showed up in street clothes at the first 8am cast call since they didn't have contracts signed yet that year.
The management and PTB are just running on "Rennie Time." ;)
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on July 14, 2011, 12:33:29 AM
The management and PTB are just running on "Rennie Time." ;)
ROFL ;D
I didn't sign my contract until the 3rd weekend of fest last year....but I did see that Anita posted on Facebook today that she was printing out the contracts. She wants people who know they won't be working out there this year to let her know so she can save a few trees :D
Lauren didn't sign hers until 5th weekend. She wasn't even supposed to get one, but Carr made her sign it anyways. I suppose, she is a minor, and they didn't want any liability if she hurt herself, or offended someone.
I will be surprised if they make her sign one this year. She just hurls insults for one show per day if she is lucky. Techhnically she was a Nanny last year, not an entertainer.
Hey I got my contract in the mail today. Amazingly enough it contains that special phrase that will keep me working there. :)
As did many others this Saturday past, including the Spicers. Seems to be no changes to ours (in general)... wonder about others though - or if rocking the boat with more changes after the first has been postponed until the 2012 season?
I got my contract, with the one minor change I asked for. I haven't heard from any of the other peasants.
Alright, more of my 2c,
From the point of view of a "playtron", and as someone who has seen the festival change dramatically over the 13ish years I've been going...A lot of whats going on surprises me on one hand, but doesn't on the other.
I've heard the horror stories from a few years ago about after hours stuff, but I've heard its been cleaned up in recent years..So this really (at least in my eyes) is a non issue.
The one thing I suppose that irks me about this whole lot, is this whole VIP-Playtron bit...It just seems like they want to further alienate those who already feel left out this year (and in the coming years). Granted, I've never been on cast, but have been there for 13 years plonking down 80 bucks a year for a season pass...And Hanslow has been "alive" out there for 3 years.
Idk...I think the whole thing is just a ploy to get the cheapest they can get, and run with it. But hey...I could be wrong. Maybe these changes really will be for the better in the long run... :-\
Quote from: Prof. John Bull on June 13, 2011, 04:14:18 PM
It is my hope that Terpsichory may return in some fashion on a volunteer contract. I have occasionally sat in on their rehearsals and provided music for their non-fest gigs, and I know they work hard and have talent and, in many cases, extensive formal training in dance.
It is my observation that, despite their careful, artistic, energetic performances, and accurate period costuming, the fest crowds showed little interest in their show.
...wait...is Terpsichory the group that teaches the dance lessons? If so, I will miss them terribly! They were extremely kind to us, and I loved learning the dances every year!
I DO have to admit though, that while I love "historically INSPIRED", Historically ACCURATE actually bores me to death.
They have taken a volunteer contract... and are likely to still have dance lessions and the dance sessions :)
Quote from: Lady Spicer on July 23, 2011, 08:14:43 PM
They have taken a volunteer contract... and are likely to still have dance lessions and the dance sessions :)
Lovely! Hopefully we will see them again then - they are one my my fave things at Faire!
The Bust Dusters got the boot, too! GRRRR!!!!!
Quote from: LadyFae on August 02, 2011, 11:28:57 AM
The Bust Dusters got the boot, too! GRRRR!!!!!
NO WAY!!! Really? :'( well that just plain sucks, they were such fun ladies...
Lady Fae you were quite direct on the MNRF Facebook page about your thoughts on the Bust Dusters departure.....I thought is was quite amusing ;D
Quote from: auntiegiggles on August 02, 2011, 11:30:56 AM
Lady Fae you were quite direct on the MNRF Facebook page about your thoughts on the Bust Dusters departure.....I thought is was quite amusing ;D
Yes, well, that was the point dear sister. No need to sugarcoat it, I thought they made a piss-poor decision and, as I have nothing to lose, figured that I may as well tell them so! =)
Are you serious? You guys are so much fun on the streets! Apparently they offered you a total volunteer contract? Or none at all?
:'( :'( :'(
What will make Lady Spicer happy again?
Quote from: Lady Spicer on August 02, 2011, 04:56:55 PM
Are you serious? You guys are so much fun on the streets! Apparently they offered you a total volunteer contract? Or none at all?
Yeah that's my question: are they like Terp. and the Mayor's Entourage in that they've been cut from being a paid part of the cast and can still volunteer -or have they been told that their act is not wanted at all?
Carr posted this to the MNRF Performing cast group on FB (possibly in response to several FB postings about the Bust Dusters)
QuoteThere has been some conversations going about, regarding our decision to trim some members of our cast. The decision we've made were tough, and driven by financial pressures.
From what I understand, they were asked to be volunteer cast.
Carr also invited us to voice our concerns to him via his email.
Personally, I'd like to give him an ear full. BUT, I don't want to just fly off the handle, so I am going to chill and then write to him about it.
But, please, fans of the Dust Busters, write on the MNRF facebook wall and voice your concern.
(Nicely, not rudely, please.)
At the very least, it will let the DB's know you care. At the most, perhaps it will make Carr rethink his budget.
Mention that they are exactly what management and the owner have been asking for, for years now. Fresh talent , yada yada yada.
That sucks. They were fun and helped cover everything in glitter... made everything sparklier.... though they could take the volunteer contract... it isn't so bad if they were given hat pass.....
Quote from: saphire_glade on August 02, 2011, 08:49:47 PM
That sucks. They were fun and helped cover everything in glitter... made everything sparklier.... though they could take the volunteer contract... it isn't so bad if they were given hat pass.....
Don't you think though, it would be nice to break even?
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on August 02, 2011, 10:55:12 PM
Don't you think though, it would be nice to break even?
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!LOLOLOLOLOL! Break even!? Is that even possible?
Quote from: Naween on July 23, 2011, 06:07:59 PM
...wait...is Terpsichory the group that teaches the dance lessons? If so, I will miss them terribly! They were extremely kind to us, and I loved learning the dances every year!
Yes, we are coming back, and we will happily still teach dances! In fact, we were looking to do more teaching before the whole contract fiasco started... as of now we are still unsure of what our schedule will be, so don't know if we'll do *more* teaching than before, but we'll definitely still be doing morning and evening court dance.
Thanks for your sentiments-- glad to hear we are appreciated by playtrons/customers, if not necessarily by Festival management! :)
Also, if anyone writing to Carr/MNRF via email or the FB page wants to express their happiness that Terpsichory is returning as volunteers though our paid contract was cut, that would be much appreciated. ;)
Quote from: Will Scarlet on August 03, 2011, 08:14:08 AM
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on August 02, 2011, 10:55:12 PM
Don't you think though, it would be nice to break even?
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!LOLOLOLOLOL! Break even!? Is that even possible?
Sure -assuming you manage to become a national Renfair icon like Twig ::)
Quote from: groomporter on August 03, 2011, 06:46:25 PM
Quote from: Will Scarlet on August 03, 2011, 08:14:08 AM
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on August 02, 2011, 10:55:12 PM
Don't you think though, it would be nice to break even?
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!LOLOLOLOLOL! Break even!? Is that even possible?
Sure -assuming you manage to become a national Renfair icon like Twig ::)
Okay, so I made a funny. It is probably a hard pill to swallow to go from being paid to nuttin. As for front gate shifts, I am sure there will be more volunteers than paid slots. And that could be a whole nother rant too.
Yes, we could be there on a volunteer contract (that was offered to us) but unfortunately we as Bust Dusters can't justify being there for 8 weekends for no pay, or just tips (split 3 ways). It's a bummer but that's how it is.... :(
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on August 03, 2011, 06:53:25 PM
Okay, so I made a funny. It is probably a hard pill to swallow to go from being paid to nuttin. As for front gate shifts, I am sure there will be more volunteers than paid slots. And that could be a whole nother rant too.
Sorry, I just had to make fun of it because it is a joke that I always make. Between myself and the belly dancing hotness that is my fiance we haven't come out ahead any year so far. We always say that it is an expensive hobby more than a job. But if I were to be presented with a volunteer contract, I'd have to say no to coming back as well.
Quote from: gusjodi on August 04, 2011, 02:04:35 AM
Yes, we could be there on a volunteer contract (that was offered to us) but unfortunately we as Bust Dusters can't justify being there for 8 weekends for no pay, or just tips (split 3 ways). It's a bummer but that's how it is.... :(
Sorry to hear that you ladies won't be out there like last year. I had little interaction with you as a group, but it was always positive. And judging by the response of your fans, I'd say they feel the same way.
Yeah it is a very expensive hobby. Last year I only managed to break even after you look at the camping, the gas, the food, the trinkets, the costume *which is ever in need of repair* and every year I sign a contract that doesn't offer me a dime in pay. I guess it is deciding if you love it enough to pay for it, or if you work for the pay.
But apparently now Tia is attempting to get our trinket privileges back. the only person whose current trinket scheme will likely not be allowed is naturally mine.
Apparently I look too much like twig, give my shells out too much like twig *despite the fact that most of the time I require you to play with my bubbles before you get a shell* and my shells look too much like twigs glass gems... I hold out little hope. Tia knows I am not much for compromise... as they don't pay me enough to compromise.
Adn hey Dust Busters:
Its called see if you can get some tickets cheap or free from another performer and walk in and do you thing anyways. That was my plan. *for like a whole 2 days*
I've been hearing from more friends that either didn't get offered a contract or were offered a volunteer contract this year. It will be interesting to see who shows up at the cast rehearsal on Saturday.
I haven't seen this much of a shake up of the cast since Alex Daye was ED.
Miss Bubu:
I won't be at cast rehersal but I will certainly be at opening cast call. I don't like getting yelled at before it starts.... I think my helper is of the same mind. So there might be more at open cast call than rehersal, but it is going to be kinda scary to see who is there and who isn't
Quote from: MissBubu on August 04, 2011, 04:03:38 PM
I've been hearing from more friends that either didn't get offered a contract or were offered a volunteer contract this year. It will be interesting to see who shows up at the cast rehearsal on Saturday.
I haven't seen this much of a shake up of the cast since Alex Daye was ED.
AKA "Alex the Ax" as someone nicknamed him? Didn't he actually quit before the end of the season that year? Never met him, but kinda always felt sorry for him. It seemed like he was just used as an outsider to come in and make the cast budget cuts and take the heat for it all.
Rumor is they also want to move the parade to the end of the day? 6 pm or something?
I suppose they're hoping it will help with end of the day crowd control by drawing people out to the closing gate show and off site?
That makes sense about drawing people out, but would likely eliminate a chunk of paraders. I lost my parade job when they moved parade to 11:30 as the booth owner didn't think it was worth it since there weren't nearly as many people there at that time of day. If it was at the end of the day, what motivation would any crafters have to do parade? You aren't going to drum up any business for the booth if faire is about to close for the day.
Yeah the first person to mention it to me asked about the effect on us, but I don't think we really get any advertising value out of it. I wonder how many patrons actually look for the parade or whether they just watch because it's hard to ignore.
Seems to me when I visited Bristol last (prolly ten years ago), they had a Danse Macabre performance at the end of the day. Kinda spooky for some people but really neat I thought
From their facebook page:
Breaking news! Serpent Dancers: Shades of Arabia will not be performing at Minnesota Renaissance Festival for the 2011 season.
Okay, so exactly how many acts ARE going to be at Fest? This sounds like it's going to be emptier and emptier. When does the Joust take a hit? Or some of the musical troupes (if they haven't already)?
I guess my fear is, more than this year, what's going to happen next year, when there isn't a terribly large amount of grumbling about missing acts, and they've saved a bit of money? More cuts? These kind of things start small, but they grow until the Fest becomes an overly-commercialized monster.
The website lists the stage and music acts http://www.renaissancefest.com/MRF/entertainment.html but not the street groups. It seems like most of what has been cut has been street character groups. There's already been a perception in recent years that there are fewer characters on the street so you may be right that next year could see the reaction from the customers. With the economy still slow they may turn out for "Stay-cations" this year...
It is starting to sound like what happened to TRF right before I moved up here. They cut out most of the street acts and some of the shows.
Quote from: Kiss-me-Kate on August 04, 2011, 10:16:34 PM
From their facebook page:
Breaking news! Serpent Dancers: Shades of Arabia will not be performing at Minnesota Renaissance Festival for the 2011 season.
This sucks. :( I really liked their act!
As for moving parade to the end of the day, I personally think it would be great. Combine post-parade with closing gate, and also yes, get people out. Though what effect that would have on Drum Jam I'm not sure (but Drum Jam has not bee up to its former glory in the past couple of years either, in my opinion). The Danse Macabre sounds cool to me, groomporter!
Quote from: LadyFae on August 02, 2011, 11:28:57 AM
The Bust Dusters got the boot, too! GRRRR!!!!!
Best part of street cast (imo) and a huge loss. Losing way too many good people..
Quote from: Cofeeguru on August 04, 2011, 10:31:24 PM
Okay, so exactly how many acts ARE going to be at Fest? This sounds like it's going to be emptier and emptier. When does the Joust take a hit? Or some of the musical troupes (if they haven't already)?
I guess my fear is, more than this year, what's going to happen next year, when there isn't a terribly large amount of grumbling about missing acts, and they've saved a bit of money? More cuts? These kind of things start small, but they grow until the Fest becomes an overly-commercialized monster.
This.
Quote from: Cofeeguru on August 04, 2011, 10:31:24 PM
...until the Fest becomes an overly-commercialized monster.
Is it not already that?
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6007/6011786979_3ae24b6f8e_b_d.jpg)
I posted BEFORE seeing that. Yes, now it is truly too late. Though I still have nightmares about cast members having Nike logos.
I totally put orange over my wings first year on fire me sunday adn went as the most cingular fairy at the fair... so yeah.... I think that is jsut adding to your nightmares... but yeah...
And wow... lets make a deal... just wow... coudl you see howie mandel touching a festie if he heard baout the creepy fest crud half the cast gets?
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
From their facebook page:
Breaking news from MNRF: After resolving some confusion the Bust Dusters will be at festival this season. Watch for upcoming information regarding an Enchanted Tea with the ladies in blue. Thank you to all of our friends for being so supportive. We love yiu.
Yay! Not sure if our voicing our opinions helped, but I don't care. Glad they are back!!!!
Quote from: Charlotte Rowan on July 12, 2011, 10:23:55 PM
@Sleepy - with all due respect, I think people who volunteer 12 hours a day, 2-3 days a weekend for 7 weeks should absolutely be allowed the privilege of staying after hours. That is the difference between playtrons and volunteer contracts - obviously, we're all out at Fest mainly because we love it. But while playtrons are, of course, free to come and go as they please, not subject to MAF rules, etc, volunteers make a committment to be out there at least half time (at least all the groups I know of that get hard passes have a half-time minimum committment, otherwise you get a paper pass and can only stay until 10), rain or shine, hot or cold, and I think we're entitled to the privilege of staying after hours in exchange. If someone just wants to stay after hours and don't care about the show, there are many booths that hire part-time workers.
Char: please accept my apologies. I should have also put in there the volunteers who actually work and do good for fest. Yes if you are out there like you say been all means you should.
Kate: yes I love playing Lord F and like the break every now and then and geez who doesn't love to visit you guys at Willin' you're a fun loving bunch ;D I guess my meaning for a volunteer contract would enable me to take tips etc. I put a lot of money in my costumes,yes I love to do it more than anything else. I mean the looks on peoples faces especially them men/boys out there...priceless. But I have been told I could get kicked out if I accept tips. Which I have been offered after taking pics with people. It would be nice to be compensated in that way and it's not like it's a lot of money either. but hey anythnig I can get to help the costume fund helps right?
Heck just let me accept the tips,dont give me a contract, I dont need the special privelages. thats all I ask. Ask Storm its a hoot out there when I am there. And now with Austin Tatious it could get even better.
Sleepy is right! I love hanging out with him when he comes out as Lord F! It's a joy to stroll the lanes with him and see the reactions he gets from people. Some of my most fun days at fest have been hanging out with him when he is Lord F! It's always a hoot then...
All that aside, I am really concerned about fest with all their volunteer contracts and stuff. As a Playtron who has been coming out to fest for going on 5 or 6 years now I have seen nothing but decline over those years. It seems that the powers that be want to get by on the cheap. They want people who they use to pay to volunteer now. They don't seem to want to put much money back into fest. Is the Masters Hall repaired yet? If not, what will this be....3 years without it now. What is Mid America doing with the money they are making out there? I thought part of the new lease agreement was that they were suppose to stop bleeding our fest to prop up other fests of theirs? I am not seeing any of that. There is an old saying. You get what you pay for. And the Mid America and the powers that be don't seem to want to pay for much. Yup, I have great concerns for our Festival. They are going to run it into the ground if they keep wanting to get by on the cheap. Eventually, people will just stop coming.
I don't know what to expect this year.....And that's sad....
Quote from: Storm on August 07, 2011, 03:25:09 PM
Is the Masters Hall repaired yet? If not, what will this be....3 years without it now. What is Mid America doing with the money they are making out there? I thought part of the new lease agreement was that they were suppose to stop bleeding our fest to prop up other fests of theirs?
I've heard no indication that there was a clause like that in the lease agreement. I would think that as long as they're keeping things up to code, it's they're own business how they reinvest their profits. That being said, no I don't believe anything has been done with the Hall of Masters. But they
have been rebuilding and/or bringing up to current code quite a few food booths in the last three years. There's a least one whole new food building just up the street from me. You can't blame them for focussing first on the structures that make them money. The Hall of Masters doesn't bring MAF any direct income, it really only supplies us crafters with a little extra on-site advertising. I'm actually surprised they haven't just torn it down and leased out that space for two or three new craft booths -or put another pub in.
You are right Chas.....
I don't know if there was a clause or not, but I thought I heard from somewhere or another that the land owners were concerned about money being put back into the festival? I thought that was part of the hold up with getting a new lease signed?....
As for the Hall of Masters. In my opinion, it's an eye sore leaving it they way it is. Either fix it or tear it down and let someone else come into the spot. I think it's stupid of them to let it stand there as is. It's a big black eye for fest and you have to think that patrons aren't impressed. What kind of message is letting it stand there, basically condemned with paying patrons walking by it all day long, sending?....
Hall of Masters is basically roofless from decay as of this afternoon.
What I have not heard mention of is MRF moving to a new location. I think it will go away entirely and KCRF will be the big MAF show.
KCRF or MIRF... But we've got what, 12? years left now on the new 15 year lease? Of course some of it may depend on how long Peterson lasts and who might take over. He's gotta be at least in his upper 60's.
I paced off the quarry progress today. I have my doubts that this will reach 12 more years. I am thinking it will go the way of the Virginia show. About a week after closing, the owners strip the site of anything worth selling and walk away.
Jac mentioned something not long ago that they recently took some core samples in the area behind the campground that got cleared of trees last year, so depending on what they found they could shift to back there for the time being. Until the economy improves at least the gravel operations probably won't accelerate.
Quote from: SleepyArcher on August 07, 2011, 05:06:48 AM
Char: please accept my apologies. I should have also put in there the volunteers who actually work and do good for fest. Yes if you are out there like you say been all means you should.
No worries, Sleepy!
Quote from: groomporter on August 08, 2011, 07:23:04 AM
Jac mentioned something not long ago that they recently took some core samples in the area behind the campground that got cleared of trees last year, so depending on what they found they could shift to back there for the time being. Until the economy improves at least the gravel operations probably won't accelerate.
I wonder if that area is below the water line? Or very near? I heard rumor that the richest deposit was in the area 600 between our place and Bad Manor.
Who knows what the future holds? I wonder if every year the cast will be squished more and more? Seems like cutting off the nose to spite the face. Still, I have to place trust in the owner who (in theory) knows more about the show and the biz than I pretend to.
Quote from: William_MacKean on August 08, 2011, 08:51:49 PM
Quote from: groomporter on August 08, 2011, 07:23:04 AM
Jac mentioned something not long ago that they recently took some core samples in the area behind the campground that got cleared of trees last year, so depending on what they found they could shift to back there for the time being. Until the economy improves at least the gravel operations probably won't accelerate.
I wonder if that area is below the water line? Or very near? I heard rumor that the richest deposit was in the area 600 between our place and Bad Manor.
I believe the surface there is at the same or above the lower levels of of the site, but who knows about the usable rock compared to water level...
Quote
Who knows what the future holds? I wonder if every year the cast will be squished more and more? Seems like cutting off the nose to spite the face. Still, I have to place trust in the owner who (in theory) knows more about the show and the biz than I pretend to.
Yeah can't helpt but recall what my late father-in-law said, gotta hope MAF makes lots of money so it trickles down to increase the investment in the site and advertising. Prolly gonna be a tough year what with the economy regardless.
Alas and alack. Terpsichory has been notified that we will not have the Bear Stage to perform on this season. I don't know where we'll be performing... random locations on the street? To be determined. But we shall persevere!
Quote from: Cofeeguru on August 04, 2011, 10:31:24 PM
Okay, so exactly how many acts ARE going to be at Fest? This sounds like it's going to be emptier and emptier. When does the Joust take a hit? Or some of the musical troupes (if they haven't already)?
Bramblebush, Cromatico, and Reve du Faun all disbanded at the end of last year's run. Langer's Ball, an established local band, will be at MNRF for the first time. I understand there are also two new smaller groups.
I'm not aware of any changes coming from management in this area.
Reve du Faun has actually changed to "Briar" https://www.facebook.com/pages/Briar/120156600875?sk=info They're going to be focusing more on English folk songs rather the the Celtic stuff that practically -every- other fest band plays and have brought back John, their original bass player from Reve du Faun.
Briar is a great group and well worth a listen. They were performing two sets a day at MNRF last year (though without John).
My best friend, Lin, was in Cromatico. This year, I get to cheer her on as a member of the Court Revelers. I'm quite proud. And relieved they weren't cut.
I really enjoyed Briar's sets last, looking forward to hearing the other new acts. Excited to hear that Langer's Ball will be at fest this year!
Cromatico didn't disband, per se, we're just on hiatus. Although we wont be at fest unless it's a limited engagement in the future. We were trying for a single weekend this year but our personal schedules did not work out with the rearranged theme weekends.
Hopefully we will start working on non-fest gigs once we're all ready again. Silly baby taking up all my time. ;D
Quote from: Prof. John Bull on August 09, 2011, 06:37:29 PM
Bramblebush, Cromatico, and Reve du Faun all disbanded at the end of last year's run. Langer's Ball, an established local band, will be at MNRF for the first time. I understand there are also two new smaller groups.
Langer's Ball was at Fest 2 years ago (under the name Whiskey Chasers), and they were great. A lot of good energy, a bit like MacDougall's Pride. Four Pints Shy will forever be my favorite, but Langer's Ball was a close second. I'm glad they'll be back.