Well, we lost the fight for Empty Hats to perform at BARF.
Come out and support this local FL band at these other venues:
Feb 14th Valentines Day 2009
10am - 2pm
The Saturday Morning Market in downtown St. Petersburg
We love the atmosphere of this outdoor market. It is a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning.
Feb 14th Valentines Day 2009
3.30pm
Gulfport Courtyard
juvenile diabetes benefit
Mar 10th 2009
7 pm - 10pm
cover at door
Skippers Smokehouse
Mar 17th 2009
Time TBA
St Pattys Day
The Villages
April 3rd.. First Friday in Gulfport
7pm - 10pm
Java Nirvana
gulfport courtyard
2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S,
gulfport, florida
April 12th
10am - 2pm
The Saturday Morning Market in downtown St. Petersburg
We love the atmosphere of this outdoor market. It is a lovely way to spend a Saturday morning.
Good call. I was just commenting to Ladyfair that I knew they played around the bay areaa dn that we should plan an outing to see them. :)
For those of us who will miss these guys at faire, a chance to see them elsewhere.
Quote from: Anna Iram on February 04, 2009, 08:53:52 PM
Good call. I was just commenting to Ladyfair that I knew they played around the bay areaa dn that we should plan an outing to see them. :)
For those of us who will miss these guys at faire, a chance to see them elsewhere.
I'm glad you approve. As mod and all, I was afraid that it might get kicked out as being more a "performer" topic. However, these folks are kind of like one of our specifically LOCAL bands in the Bay Area, so this is where they would get the most exposure on the forum.
Yep. Agreed. Even though they play at other faires and venues, I kind of think of them as part of our faire family. :)
Well, it's looks like I will lose out all around. I am flying into Tampa Mar.13th and leaving on Monday the 16th.
Even though my daughter no longer lives in Florida, I still made plans to return to BARF for the RF invasion and M'Crack gathering. One of the highlights of this trip was the chance to see Empty Hats again. Now it won't happen. I wish I could afford to extend this trip by a few days.
Ok, I will stop whining now. But I am still sad.
it has come to our attention that empty hats was sent contracts that they are looking at now!they will most likely be at barf this year! whoopee!thanks to all that helped in the effort.they will be posting it on their website soon.
Hi Sweetwater. Thanks for letting us know. That would be wonderful! :)
Well, through the grapevine only, I've heard that they will be at BARF if we, the fans, can match the deficit of the cut that Peterson has given them in pay.
While in theory it seems like it would work, here is the problem--
Why should WE pay so Mr. Peterson can get a first-class group at a cut-rate price?
If we do that, what will stop Mr. Peterson from cutting everyone's fee?
Isn't there enough in alcohol sales and food prices to cover the entertainment?
And I think Celtic Fae should get a big round of applause for spearheading the petition.
She really stepped up and did what she could.
Many Thanks to you, Celtic Fae! Your efforts are much appreciated.
I just found this posted on the Empty Hats Yahoo! Groups message board from Lynda Kavy:
hello to all,it looks like something worked as we did get
contracts,however meager,from barf!we will be discussing ,signing and
sending them back as soon as we can.so......looks like we will be there
this year.thank you thank you thank you for being there for us and we
hope to see you very very soon.info will be on website as soon as it is
all sorted out for us.keep posted!
Peterson is such an arse!
we already pay to get in there, he does not pay half the cast, now he want to cut the performers pay. or make us pay more. what a frack-tard!
This guy just needs to be bought out and given to someone who cares about ren faires and the people who work them
I applaud you, Celtic Fae. It took a lot of heart to put that petition together and drum up support. You were spurred to action for something you believe in, and did it on behalf of others. An admirable act. Brava!!
On to the next bit: things are tough all over. Everyone else is dealing with cutbacks and pay cuts. The Hats nor anyone else should expect to be subsidised for their work. That's why it's called contract negotiations. You press for the best price you can get, given the current market. Don't get me wrong. I love the Hats! But for the die hard fans to be asked to subsidise their appearances goes beyond the pale. It will only embolden Peterson to low-ball any future contracts. And who's to say he'll stop there? The Washing Well Wenches? Tortuga Twins? Johnny Phoenix? It's a bad idea, all the way around.
I agree with Mad Jack, with the shape the economy and the job situation is in it's no real surprise that they are cutting back on performers. I was actually surprised that they started putting more money in to advertising this year.
And to be fair, my treatise merely echoes points Wenchie brought out.
As Celtic Fae said, that information came through the grapevine. It could have been said in a heated moment or perhaps never said at all. We all know how information can become distorted when passed along the chain. I doubt sincerly anyone expects us, or any other paying guests to subsidise their income.. (Though I for one will try to be more generous to all the performers this season). I'd like to see us all take a step back and let them conduct their business as they will at this point.
Please note that I am just passing along facts.
Actually, here is what was
actually stated in a message from Lord Dumas/Steven on MySpace:
QuoteI have been talking with Gary, Carl, and Lynda about their contract situation. The first offer tendered by BARF management was completely unacceptable to them. However, they are getting a better offer now. It still does not get to where it needs to be to make it worth their while but, it is a lot closer.
In a nutshell, I am trying to find out how many people would be willing to sponsor EH at faire. In other words, we get up the cash that makes it worth it for them to play and pay it directly to EH. Gary, Carl, and Lynda have agreed to this concept and want me to tell all of you THANKS. Even if we are not successful, they want you to know that they are aware of what we are trying to do and they greatly appreciate it.
If you had to make a donation to have EH at faire out of your own pocket, how much would you give? You may not have to give as much as you say you are willing to, but, you might, depending on the total amount I can scrape up.
I am going to add that up and see if we are even close. I have a rough number, and I need to figure out if this is even possible...
Let me know... Time is ticking. And, please get this word to all your friends. If you want my email address for yourself or to enable other friends to contact me, just ask me for it.
Feel free to forward this if need be.
Thanks,
Steve"
I was basing my last post on the proposition I received from Lord Dumas.
Ditto.
Sorry guys. I didn't realise there was an actual letter being circulated.
My opinion, for what it's worth here, is pretty much in line with what's been said. We've all taken a hit in finances this year. I know I've had to make some concessions. I'm glad EH received a better contract, and I hope they are able to bend a little and play the faire, but I imagine all of our favorite performers have had to make concessions and none of them are less important. I'd like to be able to add to everyone's income but I don't support my faire by hiring the entertainment. I support my faire by seeing the shows, leaving a tip and buying a cd when moved to do so. I want to also be able to support the vendors by making a few purchases and yes the pubs will get my business as well. That's how I support my faire.
I think it was a valiant effort on Celtics part. :) I think the effort paid off in a better contract offer. Well done! I'm not surprised we were given a counter. That's fine too, in this world if you don't ask you don't get I guess, but I say no. Now I think we should put this aside and go back to looking forward to seeing our friends in two weeks. "Cause that's all I have to say about that!
Quote from: Anna Iram on February 07, 2009, 09:57:07 AM
Sorry guys. I didn't realise there was an actual letter being circulated.
My opinion, for what it's worth here, is pretty much in line with what's been said. We've all taken a hit in finances this year. I know I've had to make some concessions. I'm glad EH received a better contract, and I hope they are able to bend a little and play the faire, but I imagine all of our favorite performers have had to make concessions and none of them are less important. I'd like to be able to add to everyone's income but I don't support my faire by hiring the entertainment. I support my faire by seeing the shows, leaving a tip and buying a cd when moved to do so. I want to also be able to support the vendors by making a few purchases and yes the pubs will get my business as well. That's how I support my faire.
I think it was a valiant effort on Celtics part. :) I think the effort paid off in a better contract offer. Well done! I'm not surprised we were given a counter. That's fine too, in this world if you don't ask you don't get I guess, but I say no. Now I think we should put this aside and go back to looking forward to seeing our friends in two weeks. "Cause that's all I have to say about that!
I completely agree. Matter laid to rest.
I would also like to be laid to rest...preferably on a bench at the Sea Horse...well maybe Around the World.
Anyone care to join me?
AH! sounds good to me!!
I like pubs!!!!
I <3 cider!!!! My mug and straw are Ready!!!
Quote from: Princess Christine 2.0 on February 10, 2009, 09:36:49 AM
AH! sounds good to me!!
I like pubs!!!!
I <3 cider!!!! My mug and straw are Ready!!!
Race ya, lass! I too will be having a few pints o cider
Im not good at racing, the hoopskirt makes that hard!! LOL!
Quote from: Princess Christine 2.0 on February 10, 2009, 11:57:10 AM
Im not good at racing, the hoopskirt makes that hard!! LOL!
HA good, then I win there Princess Sassy!
nah, i'll just have my guard hold you down, til i walk over to the pub!!!!
;D
Quote from: Kathryn (Fae) Weldon on February 07, 2009, 04:36:05 PM
Quote from: Anna Iram on February 07, 2009, 09:57:07 AM
Sorry guys. I didn't realise there was an actual letter being circulated.
My opinion, for what it's worth here, is pretty much in line with what's been said. We've all taken a hit in finances this year. I know I've had to make some concessions. I'm glad EH received a better contract, and I hope they are able to bend a little and play the faire, but I imagine all of our favorite performers have had to make concessions and none of them are less important. I'd like to be able to add to everyone's income but I don't support my faire by hiring the entertainment. I support my faire by seeing the shows, leaving a tip and buying a cd when moved to do so. I want to also be able to support the vendors by making a few purchases and yes the pubs will get my business as well. That's how I support my faire.
I think it was a valiant effort on Celtics part. :) I think the effort paid off in a better contract offer. Well done! I'm not surprised we were given a counter. That's fine too, in this world if you don't ask you don't get I guess, but I say no. Now I think we should put this aside and go back to looking forward to seeing our friends in two weeks. "Cause that's all I have to say about that!
I completely agree. Matter laid to rest.
Whoa this is just kinda sad .....
Wonder what other acts have been effected by this...
Hello all by the way I'ma long time Barfer new to the online world I didnt even know that that this place was around
Every act has had to take a pay cut. Just about every worker in America has had to take a paycut with this economy. :-\
That's not a excuse
The gate prices are still the Same and they cut the pay of the Acts raise the price of the royal feast..I'm sure other things are going to go up in price...As some one who has been coming to the fair since before it was Barf I'm extremely disappointed I was planing on getting a seasons pass this Year for entire family there is five of Us...but with Half the Acts that I wanted to See aren't even going to be their the whole run I'm seriously reconsidering coming more then once this year (I really wan to to come for the Italian week end i love a good Masquerade)
I think My biggest disappointment is the news i just got that Pirate tales wont be back. I love them I saw them at Barf for the first time last year and went to some other events that they were playing at just to hear them,,,,, every show I saw then play at the Benches were packed and the audience's were really into the show....
Also Not to go on about my concerns about this whats going on with BARF
But I also Heard that this also effecting the local Cast ....I mean what on earth is these nimrods from Minnesota or Michagan (or where ever the main office if) thinking .....What would happen if we lost our Locals Like the King the the queen and their Court.. The holy Roman Emperor the Spanish Queesnthe Blackheathes the Mummers the peasent Dancers the Mayor and his Family the Germans and everyone else that has been to make the Town come real
and not some sort of Strip mall for over priced leather armor and cheesy pointy Lady in waiting hats....Or maybe that's what they want...well they may have lost one Very Loyal customer
Hi Percy and welcome to our group. :)
All I can say is I hope you and your family do make it out for some weekends. It'll be nice to meet you. For what it's worth a little bird has told me there are surprises in store for us not yet listed on the site. I don't know anything more than that...damn tight lipped birds. I think our little faire is going through some changes and I think change can be a good thing. I am hoping so at least.
OH!!! A surprise!!! I hope its empty hats and wine and alchemy!! cause this would make the princess mosted pleased.
as far as local cast goes, they hardly get anything besides comp tickets for their friends and family and the joy of being at fair. even thou... 6 weeks rehersal and 7 weeks of show. I think the most they might get is what i think i heard $200. I think its sad. Like I have said before I wish that someone who actually was a ren fair lover would by this guy out. unless i am wrong and he is a lover, but the actions seem to point to ummm no.
I mean yes the economy is in the dumper, but this has been going on for years with this man.
and the ticket prices are still the same, the rent from what i know is the same. so why are you cutting their pay??? you think you wont have as much money coming in this year. You would be surprised, cause its cheaper then disney and universal. so alot of this kinda stuff is becoming the family outings.
I say Fair pay for Faire *great* performers!!!
Tis similar to the situation of my boyhood home in Sterling, NY. The faire there has been greatly expanded by new ownership who has raised prices and has spent FORTUNES on advertising.
This promotion has been a great success in bringing in HORDES of people. Unfortunately the grounds have not been expanded, the parking lot has ONE entrance and it took us a hour and a half to get a parking spot. Most of the new visitors are not playtrons and few where in garb. I NEVER saw a SINGLE cast member. Seriously, not one.
It made me VERY sad actually. It was the faire of my childhood, where I first took my wife on one of our first dates (and she still went out with me after!)
BARF is a very quaint and charming faire with a great cast, good performances, and fabulous playtrons. I would hate to see it loose its "soul" and hope that it doesn't
So says I, I do.
Indeed! We have an awesome cast and really one of the most interactive casts I've seen in my, admitedly limited, travels.
Just as a reporter of the latest EH news:
From Lynda Kavy:
hello again fans and friends,it has come to our attention that an eager
fan(who only had the best intentions) has asked you all to be
benefactors for our time at BARF.we would
never ever ask you to support us in any financial way! never! we are so
sorry for any misunderstanding.we have ever only asked for your support
in a loving way ,not a financial way.and we never ever will!we only
want to be at faire and
have you enjoy our music and antics as usual.please please don't feel
any obligation other than to laugh and applaud and have fun!!!!looking
forward to
seeing you all very very soon!
See I dont mind tipping the performers, cause I know its going towards them directly.
I hope all works out and that they will be there!!!
NEXT WEEKEND PEOPLE!! WOOOT!! *happy princess hoopskirt dance*
<Madge steps up on her soapbox>
First of all, let me say sorry for not being on the boards for awhile, but I've been extremely busy.
Secondly, let me say that the rumor mill has been busy, and a lot of things are being tossed around here that are only partly true. It was said that "half the acts I wanted to see aren't even going to be there the whole run." We have worked very hard this year to ensure that the acts booked this year are there for the entire run, or at least as often as they usually are (like the Tortugas being there only for last weekend). At this writing, every act from last year is returning but two, and that may yet change. Pirate Tales performed for the first time last year as a filler, and may yet be brought back.
This "nimrod" has been part of the BARF cast for over 10 years and the Michigan cast for 9 years, and is now the Entertainment Manager for BARF. We are working as hard as we can in a down-turned economy to give our patrons a great show with excellent entertainment. What you've "heard" about this affecting local cast is not true. We have our village in place, with almost everyone you are accustomed to seeing. If they are not part of cast this year, it is because of their personal issues, not our lack of desire to have them there.
Please consider before spreading rumor and gossip. Most of the time it is incorrect and only causes bad feelings and resentment. If you'd like to know anything about the entertainment at BARF, I will be happy to answer your questions. You can reach me at the BARF office 813-983-0111, most days after 12noon.
Thank you. <Madge now steps off her soapbox>
I have to say that I think that having the entertainment switching up during the run of the fair (while I know makes the STAFF's life ten times harder) can be seen as a good thing as well.
I plan on being at the fair at least 4 or 5 weekends and will be working my calendar to see all of the various acts. The variety is "the spice of life" after all. I love that each weekend will bring new adventures!
LOL! Just goes to show ya that everyone has their opinion and that ya can't please all the people all the time! ;-)
Quote from: Squire Mickey on February 12, 2009, 10:43:55 AM
I have to say that I think that having the entertainment switching up during the run of the fair (while I know makes the STAFF's life ten times harder) can be seen as a good thing as well.
Quote from: Madge Estes on February 12, 2009, 11:16:22 AM
LOL! Just goes to show ya that everyone has their opinion and that ya can't please all the people all the time! ;-)
I like to make lemonade when I can!
I know the cast works hard!! I meant no disrespect at all!
I cant even image trying to set entertainment for BARF, also with another fair running back to back with barf.
I admire the cast, for the many hours they put in even before the show opens. I know you care about the faire very very much.
I can see it when you are out on the lanes. I thank you for all the time you put into Barf.
As far as my comment goes above. I have heard alot of people who have had issues with owner of this faire.
thats where my comment comes from. Not anyone on cast or the management at barf at all. Sorry if i sounded like a whinie Princess!
Quote from: PercyBlakeney on February 10, 2009, 10:10:16 PM
That's not a excuse
The gate prices are still the Same and they cut the pay of the Acts raise the price of the royal feast..I'm sure other things are going to go up in price...As some one who has been coming to the fair since before it was Barf I'm extremely disappointed I was planing on getting a seasons pass this Year for entire family there is five of Us...but with Half the Acts that I wanted to See aren't even going to be their the whole run I'm seriously reconsidering coming more then once this year (I really wan to to come for the Italian week end i love a good Masquerade)
I think My biggest disappointment is the news i just got that Pirate tales wont be back. I love them I saw them at Barf for the first time last year and went to some other events that they were playing at just to hear them,,,,, every show I saw then play at the Benches were packed and the audience's were really into the show....
Also Not to go on about my concerns about this whats going on with BARF
But I also Heard that this also effecting the local Cast ....I mean what on earth is these nimrods from Minnesota or Michagan (or where ever the main office if) thinking .....What would happen if we lost our Locals Like the King the the queen and their Court.. The holy Roman Emperor the Spanish Queesnthe Blackheathes the Mummers the peasent Dancers the Mayor and his Family the Germans and everyone else that has been to make the Town come real
and not some sort of Strip mall for over priced leather armor and cheesy pointy Lady in waiting hats....Or maybe that's what they want...well they may have lost one Very Loyal customer
Percy (love the name btw. My character name is taken as a derivative from Marguerite's, as well as the fact that the hubby wanted a name close to my real one so taht he could remember it! LOL), I do believe that Madge has addressed most of your concerns in regards to the acts at show.
We hope that you come out to visit.
Stop by and see us "Jolly Germans on Holiday" at the Embassy of the Holy Roman Empire! ;-)