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Performers => Performer Topics => Topic started by: Lady Tess on August 02, 2008, 07:23:38 PM

Title: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 02, 2008, 07:23:38 PM
The London Broil: This season will my 6th year of being a fan, and I've been to over 200 shows.

Barely Balanced: I've been going to their shows since the beginning of 2007.

Blackenshear the Curious - I've been going to the shows since my very first day at The Carolina Renaissance Festival, when I was 15.

The Lost Boys - I've been a fan since February, 2007.

Don Juan & Miguel - I've been going to their shows since my very first day at The Carolina Renaissance Festival, when I was 15.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 02, 2008, 08:11:56 PM
Tartan Terrors - of course!

Johnny Phoenix - saw him several times in the two weekends I was at GLMF, and can't wait to see him again!

Thom of Bedlam

Axel the Sot

Porter and Stout

Doc Dixon

The DaVinci Brothers

The Duelists
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 02, 2008, 08:28:25 PM
Quote from: anne of oaktower on August 02, 2008, 08:11:56 PM
Tartan Terrors - of course!

Johnny Phoenix - saw him several times in the two weekends I was at GLMF, and can't wait to see him again!

Thom of Bedlam

Axel the Sot

Porter and Stout

Doc Dixon

The DaVinci Brothers

The Duelists

I've seen youtube vids of Tartan Terrors and would LOVE to see them live. I saw The DaVinci Brothers guy at NCRF.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Captain Cornelius Howard Duckman on August 02, 2008, 10:02:00 PM
Shanty man and Bonnie Lass

Rogue Blades

Bocca Musica
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: maelstrom0370 on August 03, 2008, 10:24:58 AM
Delirio del Arte
The Washing Well Wenches

Ded Bob is good for a chuckle.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 03, 2008, 11:31:40 PM
I knew I had missed an act or two...

           The Washing Well Wenches!
             (Now how did I forget them?!  Don't tell Mr. Wetums!)
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 04, 2008, 05:38:17 AM
Yes, I love the Washer Wenches at CRF!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Neysa on August 04, 2008, 01:09:46 PM
Fight School! -stage combat and comedy.

Hack and Slash!- bull whipping, stage combat, comedy.

Johnny Fox! -sword swallower extraordinaire, magic tricks.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 04, 2008, 06:19:32 PM
I think I've seen Hack & Slash once.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Amyj on August 04, 2008, 08:28:45 PM
Musical Blades...

Limey Birds...

3 Pints Gone...

Got to see Moonie (by himself) for the first time this year...could see him becoming quite a fave...

Jolly Rogers...

Tartanic (please come back to KCRF...or better yet, St. Louis...THAT would drown out those pesky home-made helocopters that buzzed pub sing...sorry, KING's sing)
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: raevyncait on August 04, 2008, 10:39:29 PM
The Rogues

Brobdingnagian Bards

Fool Hearty

Don Juan & Miguel

Iris & Rose
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: trevor ylisaari on August 05, 2008, 11:07:19 AM
I can't really pick a favorite, but I must be blessed.
I have had the pleasure of seeing a lot of the above mentioned acts here at my home faire.

Barely Balanced (back when they were still Bardic Wind 2004 amd 2005)
Tartan Terrors
Johnny Phoenix
Axel the Sot (he is our ED this season)
Porter and Stout
Washing Well Wenches (still great, but they were better when Daphny was still here)
Hack and Slash (Hack was our ED the last 2 seasons, and Slash was our fight director many years ago)
Ded Bob
Jolly Rogers
The Rogues
Fool Hearty

And I will add a few more names to the list.

Broon
Menagerie
Pyrates Royal
Maidens IV
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Merry on August 05, 2008, 11:14:48 AM
Out of Kontrol

Sound and Fury

Moonie and Broone

Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: anne of oaktower on August 05, 2008, 06:51:06 PM
I just remembered another act that I forgot to mention...

    Puke and Snot

Got to see them for the first time at Pgh Renfest last year (well, the clones, anyway) and they were HILARIOUS!!! 
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 05, 2008, 07:30:25 PM
I've seen Moonie before. He's really funny! Haven't seen Broon, but I have the DVD and seen youtube videos. He seems really funny! I gotta add The Tortuga Twins. I don't go to many of their shows, but when I do they always crack me up.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady_Glorianna on August 05, 2008, 07:31:33 PM
I do not have a favorite but there are certain acts I am sure not to miss:

Pyrates Royale
Tortuga Twins
Free Lancers (jousting)
O' Danny Girls
Puke & Snot
Hack & Slash
Shakespeare's Skum
Wolgemut
London Broil
Hey Nunnie Nunnie
Don Juan & Miguel
Ded Bob
Zilch TorySteller
Manolete

To mention a few....


Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 06, 2008, 08:46:00 PM
I loooooooove LONDON BROIL!

Zilch and Manolete are really cool too! Oooh, Hey Nunnie Nunnie!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: cowgrrl on August 06, 2008, 09:50:44 PM
These are the shows I will see over & over again:

-Cast in Bronze
-The Rogues
-bellydancers (any)
-Charming & Dashing (New this year at CoRF.  Had me laughing so hard it hurt)
-Cut, Thrust & Run
-Doktor Kaboom
-Queen Anne's Lace
-Thomas Wood, Pyrojuggler
-The Corsairs (Alas, they are no more.  They will be missed)

And, in general, I love a good human chess match. 
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Kathleen MacFerno on August 07, 2008, 12:11:08 AM
well I suppose I would have to say

-arsene of paris
-great balls of fire/tastes like burning
-hey nunnie nunnie

but I guess i'm a little bit prone to them just because I'm in them or worked on the same stage as them... I'm so lucky! They're all great sows!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Imestra on August 10, 2008, 07:50:24 AM
Repeating some favs;
The Tartan Terrors!
Hey Nunnie, Nunnie

The show I will not miss:
The Swordsmen (Dirk & Guido)
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: LadyMorna on August 12, 2008, 12:49:51 PM
I love Hey Nunnie Nunnie, and I have learned to sing and play "Five Constipated Men In the Bible" on my autoharp for the residents at the nursing facility where I work, in tribute to the Sisters.

I also really like Iris & Rose, Queen Anne's Lace, and will miss the Corsairs terribly.  Oh, yes, and the Rogues. 

I have never seen the Brobdingagian Bards in person, yet, but I've heard their recordings and can't wait to actually see them somewhere.

Lady Morna
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: LadyMorna on August 12, 2008, 12:52:28 PM
And I forgot to mention The Ladies of the Salty Kiss!  When they played at our nursing facility in dinky little Bowie, TX, they won my heart and my loyal fandom forever!

Lady Morna
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Will Gamwell on August 12, 2008, 01:00:34 PM
Vilification Tennis (at MRF)
Tortuga Twins
Zilch the Torysteller....Storyteller
The Swordsmen (Dirk & Guido)
The Danger Commitee (formerly the DewDrop Jugglers)
Ten Seconds of Harmony
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: PurpleDragon on August 12, 2008, 01:03:49 PM
Cast in Bronze
Zilch the Torysteller
Sound & Fury
Iris & Rose
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on August 12, 2008, 01:16:49 PM
Quote from: LadyMorna on August 12, 2008, 12:49:51 PM
I love Hey Nunnie Nunnie, and I have learned to sing and play "Five Constipated Men In the Bible" on my autoharp for the residents at the nursing facility where I work, in tribute to the Sisters.

That's my favorite Hey Nunnie Nunnie! song..
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Emerald Shaunassey on August 12, 2008, 03:12:47 PM
Quote from: LadyMorna on August 12, 2008, 12:52:28 PM
And I forgot to mention The Ladies of the Salty Kiss!  When they played at our nursing facility in dinky little Bowie, TX, they won my heart and my loyal fandom forever!

Lady Morna

Lady Morna,
     The feelings are *very* mutual for all of us - we fell in love with the residents, staff, and facility in Bowie and cannot wait to get the opportunity to return to you all once more.  You are all treasures beyond measure in my books.

Utmost Respects, mo charaids
Emerald
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Celtic_Fae on August 22, 2008, 06:56:58 PM
E Muzeki
Wine and Alchemy
Circa Paleo
Empty Hats
Silent Lion
l'ensemble Cercamon
Fight School I & II
Odon Soterias
Carnivale Mijnoon
The Rogues
Paolo Garbanzo
Bob DaVinci
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Poldugarian Warrior on August 25, 2008, 09:05:04 AM
Here's a list of my favorites most perform at the MiRF, and they aren't in any particular order, because all are great entertainment.

The Buckle and Swash Show

Manolete

The Washing Well Wenches

Ric Roc

Rogue Blades

Sir Ryosus

The Limey Birds, don't know if their going to show here at MiRf, they're not listed in the schedule

Crannog

Tartanic

E Muzeki when they used to come to MiRF, not here this year

Ample and Trite

The Zucchini Brothers
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Tess on September 04, 2008, 07:10:07 PM
I also love watching Twig the Fairy interact with the kids. She is so good with them!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lord Duelist on October 13, 2008, 12:24:02 AM
A lot of it depends on just what I'm in the mood for that day, but I do have some "must see" shows:

Iris & Rose
Christophe the Insultor
Sound & Fury

with close runner-ups:

Arsene
The Other Brothers (who I think only perform at TRF, based on a comment one made when I saw them opening day)
Ded Bob

Though, to be honest, I have yet to see a show at TRF that I outright didn't like. I'll probably post an addendum to this after I've been to another faire (most likely Scarby).
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Malkavian on October 27, 2008, 07:08:44 PM
Quote from: Lady Tess on September 04, 2008, 07:10:07 PM
I also love watching Twig the Fairy interact with the kids. She is so good with them!

Twig is without a doubt my favorite faire "denizen" to see. I imagine I'm well out of her target audience but I find it a blast to watch her flit around (so to speak)

Favorite stage performers:
London Broil
Dexter Tripp
Shantyman & Bonnie Lass

I'm so jealous of those of you who have gotten to see the Jolly Rogers  :-[
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Cpt. Black Shadow on January 02, 2009, 08:46:37 AM
THE TORTUGA TWINS
and the rum runners from garf.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Welsh Wench on January 02, 2009, 08:53:58 AM
Without a doubt--

EMPTY HATS


I am fortunate enough that off season they play venues in my city so I get my fix.

And I see Loony Lucy in mundane clothes!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: BLAKDUKE on January 02, 2009, 09:24:50 AM
Ded Bob
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Tammy on January 04, 2009, 02:35:48 PM
Twig is my favorite!! (She's how I found Faire!!)
Other Favorites...
The London Broil
Dextre Tripp
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Moldy Forest on January 04, 2009, 02:55:20 PM
I love Ded Bob. So a dyslexic walks into a bra... ;D
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Mandrake Von Sets on February 17, 2009, 01:25:12 AM
Some I've seen in Central/Northern California -

Out of Kontrol (http://www.ookjugglers.com/index.html)
Myth & Magic
Trey Cromwell: Professional Showoff (http://www.treycromwell.com/)

Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Emerald Shaunassey on February 18, 2009, 12:16:13 PM
Quote from: Wildabeast on February 17, 2009, 01:25:12 AM
Some I've seen in Central/Northern California -

Trey Cromwell: Professional Showoff (http://www.treycromwell.com/)



I'd have to concure that Trey is one of my favorite performers.  My group got to work a faire with him last spring in Texas and he is absolutely wonderful and what I term "an approachable" stage performer - he actually talks to folks before and after his shows, not just while taking tips! 

Emerald
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Merry on March 01, 2009, 10:14:24 AM
Quote from: Emerald Shaunassey on February 18, 2009, 12:16:13 PM
Quote from: Wildabeast on February 17, 2009, 01:25:12 AM
Some I've seen in Central/Northern California -

Trey Cromwell: Professional Showoff (http://www.treycromwell.com/)



I'd have to concure that Trey is one of my favorite performers.  My group got to work a faire with him last spring in Texas and he is absolutely wonderful and what I term "an approachable" stage performer - he actually talks to folks before and after his shows, not just while taking tips! 

Emerald

I work alot of the same shows as all these guys, and they are all great!  They all practice the get involved with the patrons   routine.  They truly want the paying customer to have a great time. 
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: BamaWoodsman on April 21, 2009, 01:53:58 PM
For me,

Empty Hats
Paulo Garbanzo
Ded Bob 


I just need to expand my faire appearances so that I can see more of the performer's everyone is talking about.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Love Good Wood on April 25, 2009, 11:25:48 PM
aren't there like 3 ded bobs?... i saw the one at TRF and he was great.

so TRF favs are:
ded bob
the other brothers
arsene
sound and fury

at Scraborough:
don juan & miguel
dr kaboom
zilch the tory steller
hey nunnie nunnie
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: crazyrennie on May 07, 2009, 09:59:25 AM
in no particular order
Zilch the Tory Steller-its been years and he still remembers my name
Cast in Bronze
Tartanic
Adam Crack
Twig
Jolly Rogers-seen once at ARF

Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: irish on May 08, 2009, 07:39:50 PM
My favorites are.....all at Sterling!!!  ;D

But, I do like:
Loony Lucy
Don Juan & Miguiel
Bubboon...who used to be at faire...{HINT DOUG..bring him back!  ;) }
of course friends I have known for 20 some years.......John, who plays many parts and Charles, too!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: CinderellaInAFairytale on May 09, 2009, 11:21:01 PM
Mine are..

Lost Boys
Hanlon Lees
Moonie
London Broil
Tartanic
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Sir Ironhead on May 18, 2009, 04:35:31 PM
Let's see...

Empty Hats
Hey Nunnie Nunnie
Ded Bod (I been bob-mo-tized)
Isaac Fawlkes (glad he's not a wizard)
Doktor Kaboom
Iris & Rose
The Swordsmen!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Jean_Flamingo on May 24, 2009, 02:44:17 PM
Some of my favs:

Don Juan and Miguel
Sound and Fury
Queen Anne's Lace
Iris and Rose
Arsene
Ded Bob

I try to see each group whenever I can.  Doesn't matter if it's the same show each time, I still get a kick out of them not only for the shows, but also for the way they treat their audience.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Ambios on June 09, 2009, 06:06:41 PM
In no particular order......can you tell I love music?

Empty Hats
Bocca Musica
Owain Phyfe
Crannog
Manolette
Cantiga
Rusty Cutlass
Wyldfyre
Wine & Alchemy
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: NelleMoorley on June 10, 2009, 05:25:37 PM
I want to add a new favorite I saw at Scarby:

The German Brothers!

And not just because they're hot and German.

Hey Nunny Nunny is always a favorite, as are Iris and Rose!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Tessa on June 11, 2009, 12:15:56 AM
Some of my favorites are:

Any jousting troupe!
Sound and Fury
Queen Anne's Lace
Arsene
Don Juan and Miguel
The Limeybirds

Don't forget the lane performers - they work hard too!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Malkavian on July 15, 2009, 07:57:16 PM
Quote from: Tessa on June 11, 2009, 12:15:56 AM
Don't forget the lane performers - they work hard too!


Absolutely! Some of my favorite performers at CRF are lane musicians and performers.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: lady M on August 13, 2009, 05:53:21 PM
My favorite shows are

The Rogues
Ded Bod
Iris & Rose
Don Juan & Miguel
Washing Well Wenches
Arsene
My numero uno show TRF is the Fireworks.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady Rebecca on August 13, 2009, 07:12:23 PM
I think my top three are:

Don Juan and Miguel
The German Brothers
Zilch the Tory Stellar

Music-wise, I love Wolgemut
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Aniroaldawen on August 14, 2009, 02:50:51 PM
My all-time favorites are the Jolly Rogers.  I fell in love with their music probably six or seven years ago at KCRF, and over the last few years I've become more and more of a fan.  They're extremely approachable off-stage as well as engaging the audience on-stage; I can't count the number of autographs I've gotten from them, each one with a smile every time!  They're also awesome about getting pictures taken with them, complete with wonderful "we found a wench!! :-D" posing from the guys.  They're very willing to take the time to chat with fans; Beard (Kurt Hanover) teased me when I bought my first garb (I came in mundanes to OKRF and changed into my newly-bought garb, and next time he saw me he said "You've changed!!"), and I had a thirty-minute conversation with Pete (Sean Foree) one time at KCRF about, of all things, chamber music  (I'm a violinist). I've gotten hugs from Pete and Beard as well.  I've also had a run-in with Beard at my local zoo, and I'm pretty sure he remembered me from faire. It's really cool to get to the point where the performers recognize you when they see you off-faire!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: scittle on August 24, 2009, 05:42:46 PM
I am shocked no one has ever said "knights of iron is my favorite show". I have been watching them for years and every show they do is great! i first saw them when they were doing a musketeer show at Michigan ren fest. they were gone for a few years but they are back doing a robin hood show. wow is it great!

I have seen many of the other shows mentioned in this post, they are good too, but they don't conpare to a show that is a combination of the excitement of a stage show with the intimate nature of character interaction. not only can you see a great show, but after words you can go and talk to the characters. and on top of that it is interesting to see their interpretation of well know characters and story plots.

all of the stage shows mentioned already by others are the same every year. there may be minor changes, but to the average attendee there is no difference throughout the day or between years. it seems amazing to me that every show throughout the day is different and they change their show every year. that takes skill!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Captain Cornelius Howard Duckman on August 24, 2009, 10:16:18 PM
Meh, knights of Iron are all right, but they just aren't as good as the real sword fighters.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Margaret on August 25, 2009, 06:05:13 AM
Quote from: scittle on August 24, 2009, 05:42:46 PM
I am shocked no one has ever said "knights of iron is my favorite show".

I agree with all you said, but KOI does not get around to as many faires as the other acts mentioned do.  Also, I think when people think "show" they think "People up on a stage singing or doing comedy".
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Katie Bookwench on August 25, 2009, 07:52:42 AM
Quote from: Margaret on August 25, 2009, 06:05:13 AM
I agree with all you said, but KOI does not get around to as many faires as the other acts mentioned do.  Also, I think when people think "show" they think "People up on a stage singing or doing comedy".

That is a curious thing.... and judging from the posts above, both of your points are right on.

Don Juan and Miguel and the Swordsmen on many people's lists. These performers do their act on stage, and peform at many different fairs acros the country. Some are even franchised (as with Ded Bob and WW Wenches)to cover as many venues as possible, while KOI is based in MI, and (with certain past exceptions) perform only in this area.

I'm not as well faire-traveled as many on this forum, so I'm not aware of any other troupe in the country that performs in the same way as KOI performs -on the street, and has their cast walking all over the faire between shows as street characters.

If there are, maybe the fact that they don't perform on stage is the reason we're not seeing them on this list.

Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on August 25, 2009, 01:34:21 PM
Quote from: sealclubber on August 24, 2009, 10:16:18 PM
Meh, knights of Iron are all right, but they just aren't as good as the real sword fighters.

And who would that be?   You can't do "real" swordfighting in a show enviroment, or people die.  REAL swordfights REALLY kill people, which is why they occurred.

Our shows are about entertainment, and they have a component of stage combat that adds to the drama.  The focus is not the swordfight, it's the characters, because 99% of the people watching don't know a pris de fer from a passata sotto, and they don't care.  They want a STORY where they cheer for the good guys, and boo the bad guys.

And that is EXACTLY what we give them.

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on August 25, 2009, 01:36:32 PM
Quote from: scittle on August 24, 2009, 05:42:46 PM
I am shocked no one has ever said "knights of iron is my favorite show". I have been watching them for years and every show they do is great! i first saw them when they were doing a musketeer show at Michigan ren fest. they were gone for a few years but they are back doing a robin hood show. wow is it great!

I have seen many of the other shows mentioned in this post, they are good too, but they don't conpare to a show that is a combination of the excitement of a stage show with the intimate nature of character interaction. not only can you see a great show, but after words you can go and talk to the characters. and on top of that it is interesting to see their interpretation of well know characters and story plots.

all of the stage shows mentioned already by others are the same every year. there may be minor changes, but to the average attendee there is no difference throughout the day or between years. it seems amazing to me that every show throughout the day is different and they change their show every year. that takes skill!

Thanks!  We appreciate the kudos, and will continue to work super hard every day to make sure the audience is enjoying our Adventures of Robin Hood!

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: joycemarie on August 25, 2009, 03:20:45 PM
I completely agree with scittle, and Knights Of Iron IS/ARE my favorite show/performers.  2008 was my first year going to a Ren Fest and the one thing that stood out the most to me as most memorable was the KOI Robin Hood show.  I was able to catch the School of Villainy show this year at SLRF and I thought it was great and I am looking forward to seeing the Robin Hood show again in September at MiRF!  Their shows are very entertaining, and a lot of fun.   I also enjoy the fact of how friendly and sociable the performers are, as long as they have the time they are more than willing to stand and chat with you.  They are a great bunch of guys (and women!) and it does surprise me that they don't stand out to more people as favorites!  As for the person that said something about liking REAL sword fighter's better....I guess when they make a time machine you can travel back a few hundred years to see that.  :-)  As for me I am more than happy to see the sword fighting and performances by KOI!
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: scittle on August 25, 2009, 03:25:53 PM
I agree that KOI doesn't change venues, but i am sure many who are posting to this site have seen their show or the videos on the internet. it seems pretty cool to me that they all have 9 to 5 jobs and school and put on a great show too.

I also agree with dale, "real sword fighters"? don't take this as an insult but are you kidding me?! define "real". people who can do all the moves and have enough self control to make it look real? the sportsman who fence but have rules but are kind or boring to watch. or those guys who where armor and whomp on each other all willy-nilly until someone gets hurt. to me, they are no better than children with wooden swords. anyone can pick up a sword and hit someone with it, but a skilled professional can do it well make it look good and be safe.

rhetorical question: bruce lee was a martial arts master, but he changed moves and used wires and camera angles to make it look good. does the fact that he cheated make him any less of a master? answer: no it doesn't. not that KOI is bruce lee but you get my drift.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: dbaldock on August 25, 2009, 06:43:50 PM
Queen Anne's Lace
Cantiga / New World Renaissance Band when performing with Owain Phyfe
Gypsy Guerrilla Band
Cast in Bronze
Zilch the Tory Stellar
Donal Hinely
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on August 25, 2009, 07:36:41 PM
Arsene
Totruga Twins
Ded Bob
Tartanic
Wind & Alchemy
Zilch the Torystellar

actually I like all the performers I see
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Captain Cornelius Howard Duckman on August 26, 2009, 10:37:00 AM
Well the problem I always find with knights of Iron is it feels like they go at about 3/4 speed. You can always tell where the blow is going, and how it's going to be blocked. Wereas groups like Her Majestys Royal guard, or even the Rogue Blades go at it full speed, and add that much more excitement to the show.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Katie Bookwench on August 26, 2009, 12:47:10 PM
Quote from: sealclubber on August 26, 2009, 10:37:00 AM
Well the problem I always find with knights of Iron is it feels like they go at about 3/4 speed. You can always tell where the blow is going, and how it's going to be blocked. Wereas groups like Her Majestys Royal guard, or even the Rogue Blades go at it full speed, and add that much more excitement to the show.

I have to confess that I don't generally watch stage combat shows, so I'm not in a position to be able to compare one act to another.

Is HMRG an outside performance group or is that an in-house (i.e. Cast) group? For what Faire do they perform? 



Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Captain Cornelius Howard Duckman on August 27, 2009, 01:42:38 AM
They're a full contact group, I've seen them at both mayfaire and derbyshire, full armor and all. They don't do nearly as much plot based stuff, but they do go full bore.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Lady L on August 27, 2009, 02:08:52 AM
I have never even heard of most of the acts that have been listed here. I have been attending MNRF since 1973. I have had a shop for 12 years.  ???

The show I like is the armored jousting. It seems like the epitome of a renaissance faire to me.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on August 27, 2009, 11:14:11 PM
Quote from: scittle on August 25, 2009, 03:25:53 PM
I agree that KOI doesn't change venues, but i am sure many who are posting to this site have seen their show or the videos on the internet.

Actually this is untrue.  Over the past ten years you may have seen us many different places, and just not realized it was us.  Knights of Iron have performed at Michigan Renaissance Festival, Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire, Charlevoix Renaissance Faire, Kansas City Renaissance Festival, Sarasota Renaissance Festival, as well as The Realm of Darkness haunted attraction, Scaregrounds at the Fairgrounds at the State Fair, and the Haunt and Attractions convention in Chicago.  In addition we have done numerous shows for organizations such as Entrepreneurs Organization, Rochester Older Persons Commission, Boy Scouts, RGIS Corporation, and many more.

Quote from: sealclubber on August 26, 2009, 10:37:00 AM
Well the problem I always find with knights of Iron is it feels like they go at about 3/4 speed. You can always tell where the blow is going, and how it's going to be blocked. Wereas groups like Her Majestys Royal guard, or even the Rogue Blades go at it full speed, and add that much more excitement to the show.

What you are seeing is the difference between a character based fight, designed to tell a story, and a fight done for other purposes.   I often tell my fighters to slow down, as the audience has to follow the progression the characters make throughout the fight, or it becomes "fight porn" meaning they would be fighting for no reason as in "I have a sword, you have one too, let's fight!" .

Look at it as the difference between boxing, and a Rocky film.  There are some good boxing matches, but most aren't very interesting all in all.  Every match in the Rocky films is DESIGNED to tell a story, and that adds interest.   In Rocky I Rocky goes into the ring believing he is going to get killed by Apollo Creed, but somehow, he manages to hang on, against all odds, and prove to himself he is a champion.  THAT is drama.

It's similar in a Knights of Iron sword fight.  Characters all have signature moves, and a fighting style designed for their character.  From the Mop Girls insanity, to Will Scarlett's taunting, lighthearted rapier style, to the Sheriff's brutal "blade beat head cut" one shot kill he tries on Robin, the moves fit the character, and the story.

I, and the rest of us, can fight like quicksilver lighting, and, sometimes we do IF it fits the plot.  Examples are the Athos/Pride fight from The Three Musketeer's –vs- The Pirate King, or Grisandole –vs- Chiyome from Legend of King Arthur.  But if the story is lost in the blade play, or if it becomes "actorbation" where we are just demonstrating how much skill with a weapon we have and not engaging the audience, then we are not doing our jobs, which I see as telling a story, not showing off. 

One thing I have learned in my 28+ years of doing this is that amazing sword fights do not a show make.  If the audience doesn't care about who and why they characters are fighting, the show will not grab and hold them.

Knights of Iron tell stories.  If anyone would really like a 'realistic" sword fighting demo, we could definitely do it.  If that is what people wanted then we would get hired to do sword fighting demos. 

So far, our clients, and our audiences, want stories.

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
www.knightsofiron.com
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Captain Cornelius Howard Duckman on August 28, 2009, 01:20:02 AM
And you tell stories well. It's just for me, personally, the slow down pulls me out of the story, makes me realize that it's all scripted, y'know? Personal preference,  not personal attack.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Poldugarian Warrior on August 28, 2009, 05:36:56 AM
I believe too that the slow down is a good idea, we don't want to see anyone get hurt. I mean, I'm no sword fighter or anything, but I would figure even someone that is a trained professional could mess up and then the show would definitely be ruined. But, as I've stated before in another thread  I've seen L. Dale's musketeer show and the slow downs weren't really slow as they looked as very pre-calculated moves as a true sword fighter would make in a real fight. I mean if you've watched a WW2 or Vietnam movie, they always show a soldier shooting away willy nilly, and that's not the truth of it, they would take quick yet careful aim, and the action would slow only a fraction and yes we'd know it, but the real life outcome would be more effective. Just like a sword fight. And you know what I've never noticed whom the fight group was a MiRF, but I always knew the theme and whether it was a good show or not, and not one has let me down. So I'd have to add Knights of Iron to my list of favorite shows.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on August 28, 2009, 02:59:56 PM
Quote from: sealclubber on August 28, 2009, 01:20:02 AM
And you tell stories well. It's just for me, personally, the slow down pulls me out of the story, makes me realize that it's all scripted, y'know? Personal preference,  not personal attack.

And that is why there are multiple acts, and types of acts, at Ren Faires.  Something for everyone.

LDW
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Shadbolt8 on August 28, 2009, 04:26:21 PM
I can't add much to what Dale has stated really, except a few observations

Knights of Iron generally is not viewed as an "Act" per se, more often than not KOI is viewed by the general patron as part of the overall Cast as opposed to a seperate show. This is due to the simple fact that when not performing in a scene the characters are in the lanes performing as their characters from the show in an effort to provide the immersion into the story, in effect stepping off the screen.

On the "speed" thing, as Dale mentioned, we can be lighting when required, in point of fact many of us have belts in various martial arts or combat training of some form or another. What you don't get to see is the two weeks that I generally struggle with trying to "remeber" that my goal is not actual knife/sword play (not that I'm an expert here, but I have a tendancy to try and use moves I normally would instead of whats written ask Little John how many times I tried to catch him in the kidneys with the dagger) but theatrical choreographed knife/sword play.

The fights are for the stage, designed to draw focus onto the characters and play out the story, pauses or "beats" are placed into the fights to allow for dramatic enhancement and for the photo ops which generally occur.

Done and told, when you think about it without the "Oh my gosh" moment right before that punch, jab, stab or slice the story loses some drama.

Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Emerald Shaunassey on September 14, 2009, 10:59:20 PM
Quote from: L Dale Walter on August 27, 2009, 11:14:11 PM

Actually this is untrue.  Over the past ten years you may have seen us many different places, and just not realized it was us.  Knights of Iron have performed at Michigan Renaissance Festival, Silver Leaf Renaissance Faire, Charlevoix Renaissance Faire, Kansas City Renaissance Festival, Sarasota Renaissance Festival, as well as The Realm of Darkness haunted attraction, Scaregrounds at the Fairgrounds at the State Fair, and the Haunt and Attractions convention in Chicago.  In addition we have done numerous shows for organizations such as Entrepreneurs Organization, Rochester Older Persons Commission, Boy Scouts, RGIS Corporation, and many more.


A curiosity question for you Mr. Walter ... what year(s) have you/your group been at KCRF and what role?  After all these years working at KCRF I thought I'd met everyone!  Just proves that no matter how much you work a faire, you still manage to miss things/people/shows!

Blessings,
Emerald
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on September 15, 2009, 01:35:21 PM
Emerald,

I was there in 2001 with Dr. Todd Huhn, and Alejandra Salinas, and we integrated into the Robin Hood show that was running at the time with Todd taking the role of Allen a Dale, and I playing the Sheriff's brother.  We did a swordfight about mid faire and were bombed by the black walnuts that populate the site.  Those things hurt to fall on!  I can't tell you the exact weekend we were there, but it was the one of your cast party.

In 2005 Jim Stamberger invited us back, and Knights of Iron returned with our characters from the Three Musketeers - Aramis, Athos, and Porthos, played by myself (Porthos) Cal Simmons (Aramis) and Doug McLaren (Athos).  We had a great time as we judged a costume contest, sat on the dias for the joust, co-hosted smoker, and bantered with your "ladies of the evening"...  Just ask Madame Red about the Musketeers.  I am -sure- she remembers us.  Again not sure what weekend it was, but it was the same one as the NASCAR race.  Hotels hard to get, and the ever present sound of giant bees...

KC is a great site and a great show, with a really fun cast.  Jim Stamberger left us with an open invitation to return any time.  If we every aren't working, you may well see us again!

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Emerald Shaunassey on September 15, 2009, 04:08:25 PM
Dale,
     I actually remember the 2001 "Attack of the Walnuts" incident.  I also do not remember the exact dates of that weekend.  In 05; I was there but my stage show was not.  I remember seeing the 3 Musketeers wandering in the lanes.  Glad to track down the times our paths crossed.  NASCAR is typically 5th weekend of the festival (sadly) and yes, it makes it very difficult to obtain motel or hotel rooms for performers. 

Here's to hoping you all can make it back to Canterbury and that one day, I will get to travel up to Michigan to see your festival!

Be well, safe journeys

Emerald
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Jinglebum on September 22, 2009, 03:59:30 PM
Sound & Fury, for sure
Wine & Alchemy
Tartanic
The Washing Well Wenches
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Poldugarian Warrior on September 23, 2009, 12:47:58 AM
Wine and Alchemy has become a favorite. I've always liked Crannog too. Have yet to see their show this year. An act that didn't make MiRF this year was The Buckle and Swash show, I thought they were hilarious.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: L Dale Walter on September 23, 2009, 04:58:11 PM
Quote from: sealclubber on August 26, 2009, 10:37:00 AM
Well the problem I always find with knights of Iron is it feels like they go at about 3/4 speed. You can always tell where the blow is going, and how it's going to be blocked.

Judge for yourself.  These were both taken last weekend, and posted by a fan of the show.  One angle. No editing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iI5YFqZhcQY&feature=channel_page (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iI5YFqZhcQY&feature=channel_page)  Fight begins at 2:05 

Or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsfSZL_mI_M&feature=channel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsfSZL_mI_M&feature=channel) fight starts immediately.

3/4 speed?  I don't think it is possible to swing an hand an a half sword any faster, and that rapier work is moving as well!

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: CaraGreenleaf on September 23, 2009, 05:01:23 PM
Empty Hats
Drunk & Sailor
Albannach
Craig of Farrington
The Swordsmen: Dirk & Guido
Saffron Finch
Johnny Phoenix
The Pickle Brothers Sideshow
Axel the Sot
Tartan Terrors
Tartanic
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Poldugarian Warrior on September 29, 2009, 11:51:58 PM
Yer right L. Dale I could see where the sword fighting between you and Robin was a little slower, but not by much. I mean a hand and a half sword is quite tough to move around. I don't know what those other guys are talkin about. And of course the rapier fighting was much faster, but they're rapiers. All in all good show by all yer fighters. I'm hopin maybe this weekend seein the whole show. I've been seeing all the other shows lately.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Gryphon on September 03, 2017, 09:02:08 PM
Quote from: Celtic_Fae on August 22, 2008, 06:56:58 PM
E Muzeki
Wine and Alchemy
Circa Paleo
Empty Hats
Silent Lion
l'ensemble Cercamon
Fight School I & II
Odon Soterias
Carnivale Mijnoon
The Rogues
Paolo Garbanzo
Bob DaVinci

Oh the old favorites here! I loved Cercamon so very much.
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Gryphon on September 03, 2017, 09:05:35 PM
Does anybody remember the Bawdy Balladeers from the MD fair way back when?
Title: Re: Favorite Renaissance Festival shows
Post by: Craigmeister on July 10, 2020, 11:48:26 PM
Tullamore from Kansas City.

Ezndil from Missouri.

Bob the Incredible Juggler ~ he's funny and inspirational.