Those of us who went to dress rehearsal today received quite a shock. Nearly a third of the cast was fired Thursday evening, being given the reason that the Entertainment budget was cut, so they got fired. They were told they could come out on 'guest passes' and perform their characters for free, but understandably, after that insult, rumor has it that many are declining that offer. Those people have already invested time and money, in rehearsals and in costumes, getting ready for this festival. And they were fired the day before the dress rehearsal weekend.
Interestingly, the Merrye Madrigal Maidens are bragging to any that will listen that they're now getting new costumes provided to them by the Festival. Costumes from Noblesse Oblige, the most expensive clothing shop at the faire. They're basking in that they're to go in for fittings this week for their CUSTOM costumes.
It doesn't take much to put two and two together and realize where the budget went. Obviously, beautiful scenery of a few beautiful women in lovely costumes is more important than having characters filling the lanes, bringing life to the streets. Without the cast, it's just a flea market with a Renaissance theme. While they are probably the most talented vocal group out there, are they really worth it at the expense of the street cast that brings the festival to life?
So, if you don't see a lot of familiar faces out there this year, that's probably why. It certainly has me seriously reconsidering if I want to be here.
The Noble Cause Knights? Are they still performing at the faire?
OK So the guy with the Turkey legs for hands won't be there?
I heard and it's just something I heard through one of the Madrigals they they were no longer together. But once again that is just rumor, and rumor being what it is NOT FACT until one of them post on the forum. i.e Three sides to every story. Yours, Mine, the truth.
Can you list names and what role they played of people let go?
As for the faire being a shopping mall, hasn't it always been that way.
Maybe IF people were let go there were OTHER reasons behind the let go. Rumors being mixed with facts can really alter a story.
As for costumes MAYBE this faire should start requiring people to furnish their own like many other faires do. While Nobless Oblige makes some beautiful stuff, it's by far not the best but it is the most expensive at faire. I often admire their garb but I can get garb made to my exact specs by a wonderful woman of the forum for the same price and it is made to last for many years and fits MY body. But that is just my oppinion. I tried MANY times to have them make custom made garb but it never worked out.
SO Until everyone let go who has been a member of the forum for a long time posts. I hold this to nb rumor. And even if it is true, So be it. The economy effects everyone.
I'l go, I will have fun and I will people watch everyone. And maybe I'll spend my money at the Faire shopping Mall.
SquireGaby: Noble Cause is of course still there..:D so no worries.
Sadly, there is no rumor...its fact...There is no IF. :'( people have been fired due to budget cuts. As to why...well only the PTB will truly know. We can all only speculate. While blaming the Mads for all of this would be of course the easiest route...I can hardly see how, though insanely expensive, 4 new dresses would cause this much budget damage. So lets try and be a bit more level headed. I have heard several other things that could very well have contributed to all of this. However, being as that Ive found myself in some hot water lately, those specifics will not be disclosed by my lips. You all will hear them eventually I'm sure. Plus some other stuff that probably isn't true to go along with it.
But yes sadly,as everyone found out today, the front gate cast is been reduced to about 6 so I hear from the gate manager (with whom I live lol) Several people *veterans and newbies alike* were fired from court and street.
The MMM group from last season has broken up...but there are I believe 3 of the members that you will recognize and one new (and very pretty,or so Ive heard) face. I don't feel that it is my place to disclose their new name so you will just have to wait! :)
It is sad that this has all taken place...hopefully...*I've had my fingers crossed for the last 3 years or so* one of the PTB will realize that an open air flea market is not actually why people come to the festival. They come to be entertained by the cast and stage acts, see the beautiful costumes that you, Neversilent, are correct in saying; they have spent their hard earned money and time on. Eat turkey legs and forget that there is an economy crisis and that they lead real lives at all. And unfortunately, I don't personally feel that that level of magic can be obtained with only a minuscule cast (talented though they undoubtedly are), stage shows and booths peddling very beautiful, but oft-times expensive, wears. But until such time, we all must keep our noses out of things that, if truth be told, we know nothing about. Its not our business how the faire is run, our business is to make the most out of whatever situation is handed down to us from the people that run it, and of course choose for ourselves whether or not we will accept what they are choosing to do with their business. After all, you can only control yourself right?
I have seen that place with a cast three times as large as this one, and I'm pretty sure Ive seen it smaller...and it is always fun., even when its bad, its good. Because the people that are there, make it so.
But that is just my opinion and should not be taken offensively by anyone reading this post, it is in no way meant to offend or anything like that.
It all just makes me very very sad. :'( :'( :'(
However, though I am not on cast this year by my own choosing, I will not cease to visit. I still have many friends that I already miss terribly and will wish to see and squeeze. Plus, thanks to Spinaka, he and I have two really b**chin costumes to come and show off...yeah! lol ;D
Remember kids! change is inevitable.
loves!
Faires are always what each of us makes of it ... I will miss those who aren't at faire, regardless of reason, but that's the case every year.
Quote from: Lady Remi on June 07, 2009, 12:58:22 AM
SquireGaby: Noble Cause is of course still there..:D so no worries.
Oh good...because I'm not going to even think about driving 13 hours one way NOT to see them.
omg where are you coming from! and I hope you are staying the whole weekend?! maybe even two! :o
I can't say this is a complete surprise, especially considering the current financal conditions.
That being said, sometimes shakeups like this work for the best. At least I'm hoping it'll be so.
See everyone at fair. :) And keep thinking positive, we're not done by far.
Well said sir!
And something else...
People come to see people in garb, they come to see events, and yes, a bit of shopping. What roles the cast can't do, the playtrons can, at least at times <certain things we can not do, but there are others we can pitch in and assist with>
That's what struck me the first year I came, and why I decided to create a persona...not to be on cast per say, though I still think that could be fun when our ecomony gets stronger. I still think it's fun to create the persona...and to help out if called upon.
Anyways, it's all about fun, even if times are rough. And about hanging out with good friends <michael, remi, blushing....there's quite a list> even if just for two months.
So is it a giant shopping mall for the unusual? Ya <heck, I'm decorating my house with ren bits. :)> But it's so much more...and it has to be, especially in times when you need that escape to get away from reality for a few hours. And it'll always be that way.
Quote from: Lady Remi on June 07, 2009, 02:30:52 AM
omg where are you coming from! and I hope you are staying the whole weekend?! maybe even two! :o
IF I come...I'll be coming from Scarby. I'm hoping to get to head up there to see my stinky knights. (Bryan If you see this DON'T say anything to the rest of the boys :P)
The first time I'll only be able to stay a day because I'm passing through on a road trip with boy. The second time IF we get to go we'll be there the whole weekend!
They have a tendancy to make at least one visit to my shop when they arrive in Colorado. So, I'll be sure to tell them if I see them.
Wait....you wanted to keep that a secret? Darn. Oh well.
Quote from: Gentlemanprivateer on June 07, 2009, 02:18:55 PM
They have a tendancy to make at least one visit to my shop when they arrive in Colorado. So, I'll be sure to tell them if I see them.
Wait....you wanted to keep that a secret? Darn. Oh well.
No no no!! :P don't tell on me!! :P I want to suprise them if at all possible! Although I'd be more than happy to allow you to relay messages to one of the squires....when he arrives anyway
Bryan is usually the one who pops in.
Yeap yeap he's usually the one that knows like everyone and disappears in the middle of the afternoon....him and Mitri both.
If you do see him tell him I said "Hi Dad!".....hehe.....and that I miss them.
I shall indeed. *and probably confuse the hell out of them until I explain it. :) *
Lol yea! Prolly!! :D Tell him "Hi Dad"....from his Scarborough daughter :P
Quote from: Gentlemanprivateer on June 07, 2009, 02:18:55 PM
They have a tendancy to make at least one visit to my shop when they arrive in Colorado. So, I'll be sure to tell them if I see them.
Wait....you wanted to keep that a secret? Darn. Oh well.
Which shop is that, so I am sure to stop in?
Castle Games and Gifts in Colorado Springs.
*and surprisingly, we get a lot of local rennies in there...only a small number actually recongize me out of garb. :)
The plain fact is, budget cuts are happening everywhere in this economy. Is it possible that the department cuts could have been a little bit more evenly spread out? Maybe. But I'm not the one in charge so I can't say what would have been best or not. It sucks, there's no doubt about it, but what is there to do? I for one am glad that the festival is still OPEN right now. There's no way to lay blame on one person or even a group of people at that, and it's irresponsible to do so. May we all hope that by next year things will be a little bit better.
I was one of the people cut from front gate staff, unfortunately, but I still walked out of there yesterday with a full-time job so you'll not hear one bit of complaining out of me. (For the record, I'm back at the same soda booth where I've been for the last 4 years, but now I'm in charge BUAHAHAHAHA--er, ahem, sorry.)
I hope we can all still have some fun at the faire this year despite the cuts in cast and crew. After all, isn't having fun the point of faire?
I absolutely agree. We're there to have fun, not let the shadow of the economy slip over us and drag the whole season down. Ok, getting off my soapbox now, before someone chucks it at me. ;)
It is a shame for all cut, but as we all know the economy sucks. I can fully understand the PTB position on this even though I do not like it. They most likey have to project what faire will look like with the amount of visitors and the money spent. It is the typical projections most business make, and CoRF is a business first and foremost.
As the Gentleman said those of us who are playtons will fill the voids of those missing. Maybe this was the plan of the PTB... I have no idea but it is a possiblity that no one but them can say for sure.
We will all have fun, and we will all see many of your friends and make many new ones.
Zoe I am glad you still will have a job even though it's not at the front gate. Maybe the future will change and you will get that position back as well as anyone else cut.
We shall see ye all next Saturday bright and early say 9ish?
HUZZAH to all cast, and crew past, presesant and future as well as those who fill the voids as playtrons.
Huzzah! And see ya'll bright and early on saturday.
*note to self, stop at native earth for new boots. :)*
Right :P someone drive down to Texas and pick me up :P I wanna go to the faire! I miss my dirty jousters!
I was one of the ones cut from the Royal Court this past Thursday. Honestly, not a huge problem for me since I couldn't be there the first weekend anyway, and I gave them the 'out' months ago. I am ticked off about the other 10 people that were fired from cast.
However, I had a nice long meeting with Mr. Paradise today about the whole situation. (I work on his site crew, with which he has a marvelous open-door policy.) Got handed some pretty hefty numbers of what happened, and that side of the story. I was blatently lied to in my phone call of why I was fired, apparently. I suspect more changes are coming.
I did find out the truth to the 'dress rumor'. The newest member won't fit any of the existing dresses left by the previous members, so they have to get her a new dress to match the rest of the group. So no, the dresses weren't the reason. It's actually much bigger.
Oh, and for those wondering, I noticed a lot more notices on the board by the office. Didn't take the time to read them, but it might be worth checking out.
Quote from: Lady de Laney on June 07, 2009, 11:11:45 PM
Zoe I am glad you still will have a job even though it's not at the front gate. Maybe the future will change and you will get that position back as well as anyone else cut.
We shall see ye all next Saturday bright and early say 9ish?
HUZZAH to all cast, and crew past, presesant and future as well as those who fill the voids as playtrons.
Indeed! I hope that by the time I come back state-side after my jaunt down under things will be a little bit easier money-wise around here. I am just hoping we will all have a fabulous time this year, in whatever fashion we are able to appear. Huzzah to faire, making real life seem a little less sucky 2 days a week! :D
If the amazing turnaround from my own business is any sign...this might be just a short term problem, especially considering we have three military bases to draw from in the springs, and I've heard a lot of talk about the fair from various strangers.
PK sorry to hear you where also cut. maybe we shal stumble upon you one of these weekends (if you still plan on being there on weekends) I'd be interested to hear the full story from those that know
Quote from: NeverSilent on June 06, 2009, 08:52:10 PM
Those of us who went to dress rehearsal today received quite a shock. Nearly a third of the cast was fired Thursday evening, being given the reason that the Entertainment budget was cut, so they got fired. They were told they could come out on 'guest passes' and perform their characters for free, but understandably, after that insult, rumor has it that many are declining that offer. Those people have already invested time and money, in rehearsals and in costumes, getting ready for this festival. And they were fired the day before the dress rehearsal weekend.
Interestingly, the Merrye Madrigal Maidens are bragging to any that will listen that they're now getting new costumes provided to them by the Festival. Costumes from Noblesse Oblige, the most expensive clothing shop at the faire. They're basking in that they're to go in for fittings this week for their CUSTOM costumes.
It doesn't take much to put two and two together and realize where the budget went. Obviously, beautiful scenery of a few beautiful women in lovely costumes is more important than having characters filling the lanes, bringing life to the streets. Without the cast, it's just a flea market with a Renaissance theme. While they are probably the most talented vocal group out there, are they really worth it at the expense of the street cast that brings the festival to life?
So, if you don't see a lot of familiar faces out there this year, that's probably why. It certainly has me seriously reconsidering if I want to be here.
Dear NeverSilent,
I don't know who you are but I can deduce that you are/were on cast by way of your prose and specific references to happenings at dress rehearsal. I can also deduce that you created this account purely with intent to post this thread anonymously. Reading the post I gathered that the only purpose of the language used was to be hurtful and derisive and to place blame where it doesn't belong by way of spreading what clearly is a rumor without verifying it first.
Here are the actual facts straight from the madrigal's mouth/keyboard.
We are not getting four new dresses, we are getting one. Our new recruit is a size four and the only available dresses are 6 and 8 sizes too big for her. In response to the "custom" comment, Leslie does not carry dresses in a size four. In 2006, we had to order a size four for Emily and we need to do the same for Ginny. There is the slight possibility that my pink dress could be replaced as it is badly torn, but I doubt it. However, those decisions are made by only JP himself and sharing my opinion with him would be moot.
For your edification NeverSilent, Jim insisted on the Noblesse dresses in the first place whereas we were in favor of making our own. In addition, costuming and cast are based on entirely different budgets. Not only that, but we are four instead of five this year (read: four, not five salaries) so a new dress wouldn't have been an issue even if it came out of the cast budget.
It truly saddens me that someone from a cast I've been a part of since 2005 would knowingly use a public internet forum to defame my group's character with blatant falsehoods and insults instead of just coming to us directly to clear up the issue. I don't know when we stopped acting like a family, but this is not the way to resolve problems, this is the way to cause problems.
In the future, my email address is Dana.Ritterbusch@gmail.com and my cell phone number is 720-841-3923, so feel free to come directly to me with concerns before spreading intentionally hurtful rumors on the internet.
Sincerely,
Dana Ritterbusch
PS: Way to make our new madrigal feel immediately welcome and accepted into the cast family! Commendably done, I might even be able to dig up a gold star for you! Gosh I love when people spread vicious lies about me and my friends. By the way, I accept apologies both in posted response form (anonymously if you really dig this whole "coward" thing or if you prefer at morning meeting).
Hey everyone. I'm Ginny, the new madrigal singer and I'm really sorry about this whole thing! I didn't mean to cause problems and if I could fit a size ten or a size twelve, I would! Even trying on Dana's size six, it dragged on the floor and wouldn't stay on my shoulders, so I won't be able to fit a six even if I wanted to. More than anything I just feel bad about this whole rumor mess that got blown so out of proportion.
As for bragging and 'basking', I can't recall any of us even mentioning the new dresses except when we were approached and asked about them (might I add, in a decidedly accusatory manner many times, which leads me to believe that whoever posted this has been talking about it to other cast members.) I don't want to cause trouble or anything, I just want to sing. And if I could sing in jeans and a t-shirt, I would, ESPECIALLY if it brought back all the wonderful cast members who got fired.
Anyway, to wrap this up, the basic idea is: I'm sorry I'm a size four, if you'd like I can eat nonstop until this weekend if that'll make you happier. I'm sorry that this whole thing got so out of hand, but if anyone had asked any of the madrigals what was going on, we would've explained and none of this would've happened. I wish that NeverSilent hadn't gone out of her way to make this a public argument instead of the quick fact-check conversation it should have been.
I'm not gonna lie, I feel a little hurt that my joining the Cast family is tainted by popular misinformation. I've been receiving glares at rehearsals and some unfriendly comments that I know are totally undeserved. I hope we can get past this and all be friends. :C I hate conflict!
Ginny and Barbie
Thank you for clarifing more. PK had already done some. it matters not... not one little tiny bit if you got a new dress or not. What matters is you are a part of faire and part of a wonderful group to boot.Welsome to the Madrigals. While I am not on cast I do visit often and all of your talents are appreciated. Please do not let one upset fool ruin your faire and fun.
There are many facts to what transpired and only JP and company REALLY know the truth. Does it matter? NOPE. What matters is faire is just a few days away and we are all looking forward to it with more cast or less.
Please do not let the postings of one person ruin it all for you. Have fun and meet many new wonderful people
HUZZAH to you both as well as the Madrigals
Barbie-Well said. I have always admired your tact and ability to say "eff you" so politely :P lol Just kidding. I know that wasn't what you were trying to say.
Ginny-I feel so bad for you! By none of your own doing you have a jaded view of what used to be a really wonderful cast of people. I know that there are still people on cast that are happy to have you join the family...but leave it to some loud-mouthed complainer to ruin the whole scene for you. I can almost guarantee that once the season starts and things get going, all of this will pass over. People are just upset across the board with all the changes. And of course its being blown out of proportion....we're talking about a bunch of actors for goodness sakes. And of course actors = drama queens. And to all of you that just went "UCH! I am NOT a drama queen"...... ::) ....riiiiiiiiiight.
So please try, even though its a little tough now, to be open minded and I know you'll fall in love with the fair and the people. Its pretty much impossible not to.
Lady D- Well said. I heartily agree. :)
Shame on you NeverSilent for causing such drama.
We all feel horrible about the loss of our old and (were to be) new family members. But posting about something you so obviously have no idea about was to accomplish what? Was it your intention to cause our family more pain? To just complain about our festival? Maybe it was to make our new Ginny feel unwelcome? Because based on her post, that is what you have done.
I am not going to go into how you have tried to blame and direct negative energy towards my family members, The Madrigals. Or how you were bashing our festival and it's management. Or how you aparently no nothing about business operations.
But I will say this ... Ginny I am so very sorry this ignorant person had to post such lies and false information about your and your wonderful group The Madrigals. I very much enjoyed meeting you this weekend. You all sounded wonderful when I heard you singing at front gate show on Sunday!! Well done!! Big Hugs and welcome to your new family.
Yours truly,
Paula Miller
AKA Titania, Queen of the Faeries
AKA The New CRF Rag Lady
P.S. - Neversilent - feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions at queen-titania@comcast.net
I have a bottle of black cherry rum, lets all be friends......big group hug.
It makes me very sad to see a fellow rennie bashed for something she has no control over. It's not her fault that she can't fit the costumes the group already owns and it's not her fault that her boss decided to get the best there was.
I've never been to CRF and I've never heard this group sing, but I'm sure they're a wonderful group and that she's a wonderful addition to it.
I DO hope to get up there at least one weekend if not more and will make a point of seeing them then!
I'm glad to see the Madrigals back again and I feel a great loss for those who were cut.
Ginny, I wish you a great year and much fun, which I know you will have. Just fyi, I know of a great place to get pizza if you so desire. ;) The Madrigals always look great no matter what they wear! Cheers!
Hello, all! This is Emily, yet another of the madrigal singers. I also was upset very much by NeverSilent's unfounded accusations. I was furious when I heard that some of my family got cut from cast so close to dress rehearsal weekend - people including many of my close friends like Anne, Sarah, and Cristine. I would never have wanted that, and I would never have done anything that would have led to the ripping apart of our cast.
What Dana said is true. I haven't the slightest idea why anyone thought that all four of our members would be getting new dresses, because that was never the case. I like the dress I've worn for the past two years just fine, and Leah, our other member, still wears hers from the past two seasons as well. Dana's will be repaired - what would we do without our pink madrigal? Only one of our members needs a new costume, and she, being brand new to the faire world and having absolutely no say in or knowledge of CRF budget issues, is certainly not to blame for Jim's decision to cut the budget.
Ginny is one of the most talented singer/performers I know, and she also happens to be an inordinately sweet, creative, fun, and sensitive young woman. And it's her birthday. The thing that I hope the most is that she does not get blamed, scorned, excluded, or treated badly because of this rumor. So please, if you know anyone who thinks she, or any of the madrigals, is to blame for this incident, let them know how untrue and hurtful that rumor is. The less-than-warm treatment Ginny has received already (from people who I can only assume read this post) is, I believe, enough to warrant an apology from NeverSilent.
To those who are gone this season, I will miss you. I have had so much fun with you in years past and just during rehearsals, and I had hopes for interactions with you both on stage and after hours. Know that I would never have participated in the events that made you go. To those of you who are still part of our family, in any way, I love you and cannot wait to enjoy this season with you! I hope that you feel the same about me and my fellow singers. Faire is the thing I love the most about my life, not because of the costumes or the money, but because of the people who make it special, and who make me feel loved. That's you guys! Thank you!
Quote from: GinnyZombie on June 09, 2009, 04:38:53 PM
Anyway, to wrap this up, the basic idea is: I'm sorry I'm a size four, if you'd like I can eat nonstop until this weekend if that'll make you happier.
Heavens no! I don't think overeating is the answer to anything! *though to be honest, I might actually overlook you due to being a size four! Ok, Ok, I kid.*
Anyways, welcome to the madness which is ren fair, Ginny. Sorry about the experience with the drama, but that too is a part of fair.
Quote from: Lady de Laney on June 08, 2009, 10:52:23 AM
PK sorry to hear you where also cut. maybe we shal stumble upon you one of these weekends (if you still plan on being there on weekends) I'd be interested to hear the full story from those that know
Nope, I will not be out there at CRF on weekends this summer. In the enlightening meeting with Jim Paradise, I learned a lot, and was even more infuriated at the situation than I was going into the meeting. And whatever else can be said about JP, apparently, this one isn't his fault. While apparently my firing was a mistake and shouldn't have happened, I'm making a stand that I would rather not return without the other cast members who were fired alongside me. I don't want special treatment just because I'm site crew. (It was flattering, however, I admit it.) I found the Entertainment Director's offer of a 'guest performer' pass (not comp tix) - where we would have still all the rules and restrictions of cast, without the benefits - insulting, and honestly, I just wouldn't want to go as a patron. Those that still are going are better people than me, apparently.
I've already found alternate things to do this summer. Now, to just try and get camping reservations at our country's National Parks. It's hard on short notice. However, while you all are out enjoying 2nd weekend, I plan to be hiking up to the top of Pikes Peak. I figure two days, that gives me two attemtps. 1st weekend I've business back home in Florida.
I've put in my notice to site crew that because of this whole disgusting situation, I'm looking for another summer job to fund my Disney vacation I'm planning for when the husband is back from Iraq. I've not outright quit because I adore my immediate supervisor (seriously, CRF site employees are treated well and with respect, believe it or not; it's quite refreshing after 4 years of emotional and verbal abuse as cast). Plus, Grand Floridian at Magic Kingdom is still $250 a night with military discount, so I gotta work to enjoy my luxury vacation. Otherwise, I'd be gone. I'm that mad and pissed off. But, LadyDelaney, if you're around site on a weekday, we could chat then. ;D
Hi all, just a friendly note from your neighborhood admin... ;)
I'd like to welcome some of our new members who have joined recently and remind everyone that the OP of this thread has only posted here once...the opening post. A whole discussion based on rumor/misinformation has occurred, and as a result a couple of our new members had to come forward with their first posts to defend themselves. Lets try to make them feel welcome!
Remember people, when we see someone join and drop a bomb like this that causes havoc, we call that /baiting/trolling. Don't let this one post get anyone too upset. So far this thread has remained fairly civil, and would like to thank those that have exercised restraint. As far as the OP is concerned, if they should decide to return and apologize, they are more then welcome to continue participating here. If their only intent was to stir trouble, I ask that they please refrain from posting.
Hear, hear. It is understandable that people are upset about what has happened in the last week at our faire, but to demean the integrity of other people without first knowing all the information is a rotten way to go about complaining. Complain if you feel the urge, but do not drag others into it.
This is, of course, preaching to the choir, as I believe NeverSilent isn't going to come back to defend his/herself, and who wants them to.
May I extend a wonderful welcome to the newest member of the Madrigal clan, and I wish you a happy, fun year with us at the festival. We are all a family here, despite what some people may think--and if they do think otherwise, perhaps we don't want them in our family anyway.
Just my $.02. :)
I can't believe we've gone this long without mentioning something about hamsters... Huzzah to new forum members!!
Quote from: Demetrius on June 09, 2009, 08:51:57 PM
I can't believe we've gone this long without mentioning something about hamsters... Huzzah to new forum members!!
Wait, Did the Hamsters get new dresses? Or maybe they've decided to replace all the cast with Hamsters? That would require some really low bowing.
Welcome new people! I hope you stay!
Quote from: Tanda on June 09, 2009, 08:56:37 PM
Quote from: Demetrius on June 09, 2009, 08:51:57 PM
I can't believe we've gone this long without mentioning something about hamsters... Huzzah to new forum members!!
Wait, Did the Hamsters get new dresses? Or maybe they've decided to replace all the cast with Hamsters? That would require some really low bowing.
Welcome new people! I hope you stay!
OMG!! lol! Okay, now I need air- someone... and a bucket for tears....
Quote from: Tanda on June 09, 2009, 08:56:37 PM
Wait, Did the Hamsters get new dresses?
WOW! those hamsters can really sing! I'm so impressed! must be a really good vocal coach.
Welcome Ginny, to the show! Nice to see you lurkers jump in too. HUZZAH to the people who stood up for themselves.... and Bishop, you should drop in more often, hang out, chat about hamsters. :D
gotta go now. gotta find a really tiny crown for the new Hamster King......
;D
Quote from: Tanda on June 09, 2009, 08:56:37 PM
Quote from: Demetrius on June 09, 2009, 08:51:57 PM
I can't believe we've gone this long without mentioning something about hamsters... Huzzah to new forum members!!
Wait, Did the Hamsters get new dresses? Or maybe they've decided to replace all the cast with Hamsters? That would require some really low bowing.
Welcome new people! I hope you stay!
I don't think even I could bend quite that low, even with my extended leg bow.
Quote from: Hey- Arent You? on June 09, 2009, 09:34:46 PM
Quote from: Tanda on June 09, 2009, 08:56:37 PM
Wait, Did the Hamsters get new dresses?
WOW! those hamsters can really sing! I'm so impressed! must be a really good vocal coach.
Welcome Ginny, to the show! Nice to see you lurkers jump in too. HUZZAH to the people who stood up for themselves.... and Bishop, you should drop in more often, hang out, chat about hamsters. :D
gotta go now. gotta find a really tiny crown for the new Hamster King......
;D
A lurker? Nah. more of a person who took a overly long hiatus.
....Twas th' zounds o' th' sea thoughts me
Dat tookz me soul by ears it did
Er zound of high pitched voices
Likz er choir o' angelz
Th' voices entized me ter dis place
Landlocked an volcanic humps
Dry an wind blasted
Ter which I've maidz me home
Fer it twas the Merry Madrigals it be
Wit thar sireens song true
Dat did kaptured me lurid heart
an disfunctional spleen
Eyez welcome ye beauteous lasses
t' th' land o' Ren Festus Circle Commons
'Specially ye newezt member
I gots yaarr backs ......
Old dress,
New dress,
Torn dress,
Dat dress,
Dis-dress,
No dress!
Sing ye Sireens!
Sing on!
"what sayz ye lasses, we goez plunde..... er, I mean, shoppin' zumtime?"
Aww, thanks everybody for the warm welcomes! : D Everyone (with one notable exception, but then, I'm not even sure if I've met NeverSilent at all, who knows) has been super kind to me and very welcoming! I'm so happy to have the privilege of singing with the Madrigals this year and a spiteful comment or two isn't going to stop me from being excited (and very nervous!) about opening next weekend!
Captain Spleen, that was a masterwork. If only I could hear it performed. :C
Quote from: Demetrius on June 09, 2009, 08:51:57 PM
I can't believe we've gone this long without mentioning something about hamsters... Huzzah to new forum members!!
Hamsters? Someone want to catch me up? ??? ;D
aww what a pretty song!
First off, I cant say I totally disagree with Neversilent's anger over the situation. Firing a large number of the cast the week before opening, then inviting people to come back and perform for free (no matter how much or how little one makes as a performer) is truly insulting. Sadly though, this is not the first nor the last time the Colorado faire has or will do this. So long as they keep getting away with these kind of stunts, they will continue.
Yes, I am a rabble-rouser and a troublemaker, and I'm damn proud of it. There is only one way for cast and crew to stop such treatment by the festival, and that is, as a group, to stand up and say no. What is that delightful phrase? "United we Stand, Divided we Fall" I believe? This post virtually guarantees I will never be welcome again on cast, but having seen what I have seen over the years, there is really no danger of my wanting to come back. So, as such, I'm pretty much free to speak my mind. Which, for those you who know me, is not exactly an unusual thing.
However, much as I may agree with Never's anger and frustration, I cant support his/her pointing of fingers at any member of cast for the current situation. Placing the blame on the Madrigals is ludicrous in the extreme. No dress, nor even a set of four dresses would account for such insanity by the Festival. (Yes, I'm aware its one dress, I'm making a point) You might as well say its the Kings New Crown that broke the bank, or the rising cost of turkey legs, or any number of things. Try to pause a moment next time, think about the situation before jabbing forth your accusatory finger. Don't let your anger get the better of you, as it will only make you look the fool. Yea, I speak from unfortunate experience there.
On the other hand, placing the blame on "The Economy" is also rather silly. I simply cant accept that the minor amount of money paid out to the cast, weighed against the amount of money brought in from Gate, Food, and Souvenir Sales, not to mention the rent that the Festival charges its crafters, puts that great a dent in Mr. Paradise's wallet. Yes, even after taking out the cost of other staff, maintenance, advertising, and everything else, I hardly think he and the Festival comes out Paupers.
Jim has been quoted on a number of occasions stating he'd gladly rid himself of the entire cast if he thought he could, as he doesn't see them producing any profit for him. You may have noticed cast steadily shrinking year to year. I believe (Don't quote me, this is only a guess) this is the smallest cast the faire has seen in over 10 years. So it would seem he's well on his way to doing just this.
Oh, and Ginny, don't let the situation get you down, or let anyone point the accusing finger at you. Like I said (and many others have too), not even in the wildest of realities could you be blamed for this. the Colorado Cast always has it drama (that's not an insult anyone, please don't take it as such). I'm not sure it could survive without it. Even when there isn't any serious drama going on, people create it.
And LadyRemi, I'm afraid I'm going to have to disagree with one of your statements too (though I agree with most of your sentiment). We can change more than just ourselves, so long as we have the courage, the will, and the drive to do so. Anyone remember that little revolution where a bunch of colonists told the English king to go to hell?
And so, In closing, may I suggest some things to those who are not going to let their anger, rage, or frustration get the better of them, and still plan to attend the Faire this year. By all means, go, enjoy the social scene. See your friends and make new ones. But find new ways to gain entry. Avoid paying as much as possible to the festival, be it through getting a pass through crafters by working out a deal with them, or by sharing the cost of tickets opening weekend with others on the two for one tickets. Do not, and I repeat, *DO NOT* bow to the wishes of the festival and agree to perform for free. In doing so, you support the festival's opinion that they can get away with treating performers as poorly as they wish. They will continue to pull stunts like this till people stand up to them. I know I'm no longer a member of the Ren Faire community, having left years ago, but I'd like to think I'm still, on some level, part of the family. perhaps a distant third cousin, 4 times removed. You know, that one from *that* side of the family? But humor aside, there is no better time for the members of the Colorado Ren Faire to band together. Do with my Thoughts, Opinions, and general trouble making what you will.
-Radu, King of Gypsies
General Troublemaker and Malcontent
I'm not a Mod but I must say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH
Can a Mod PLEASE lock this thread as it is really not necessary?
I'd like to point something out.
Neversilent registered on friday the 5th. but waited to post until the 6th. and has not been active since.
one could assume that your replies were not even being read by them.
seems odd to register ths bogus screen name on friday, when you recieved this big "shock" on saturday?
why register on friday, to post a nasty on saturday? why, to make it look like you had been at dress rehearsal, when in truth, you had not. why register, post a nasty, and never log on again? why, because you are already on the boards under another name. because you wanted to start drama, that you could fuel under a different name. (perhaps because you were angry about being cut?) this is exactly what DB was trying to explain. it was a bait to a fight from a troll. a distinctly cowardly act.
when you put out derision and negativity, that is what comes back to you. The venom that you sling poisons only you.
I've been involved in faire for a really long time now, and I've learned 1 thing..... the only constant is change. and change is difficult to accept when you are so emotionally invested in something. and believe me, I KNOW. but I choose to make the best of it, because it is what it is. take it or leave it. if you can't, you should.
I challenge NeverSilent to return and identify themself and make that apology to the madrigals that DB mentioned.
by the way......
the offer of "guest performer passes" that neversilent mentioned..... that offer was apparently not made to everyone that was cut. hmmmmmmm......... :-\
NOW.... can we please get back to talking about hamsters.
Quote from: RenaissanceBarbie on June 10, 2009, 12:12:55 AM
Hamsters? Someone want to catch me up? ??? ;D
oh, yer gonna be sorry.
CHICKEN MAN........MOLDY....... TANDA.......
tell Barbie about the hamsters............................
BWAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Quote from: Hey- Arent You? on June 10, 2009, 10:55:49 AM
I'd like to point something out.
Neversilent registered on friday the 5th. but waited to post until the 6th. and has not been active since.
one could assume that your replies were not even being read by them.
seems odd to register ths bogus screen name on friday, when you recieved this big "shock" on saturday?
why register on friday, to post a nasty on saturday? why, to make it look like you had been at dress rehearsal, when in truth, you had not. why register, post a nasty, and never log on again? why, because you are already on the boards under another name. because you wanted to start drama, that you could fuel under a different name. (perhaps because you were angry about being cut?) this is exactly what DB was trying to explain. it was a bait to a fight from a troll. a distinctly cowardly act.
when you put out derision and negativity, that is what comes back to you. The venom that you sling poisons only you.
I've been involved in faire for a really long time now, and I've learned 1 thing..... the only constant is change. and change is difficult to accept when you are so emotionally invested in something. and believe me, I KNOW. but I choose to make the best of it, because it is what it is. take it or leave it. if you can't, you should.
I challenge NeverSilent to return and identify themself and make that apology to the madrigals that DB mentioned.
by the way......
the offer of "guest performer passes" that neversilent mentioned..... that offer was apparently not made to everyone that was cut. hmmmmmmm......... :-\
NOW.... can we please get back to talking about hamsters.
Noticed that myself.....kind of a small pool of potentials to choose from dontcha think?
Ok, I'm a little scared but I want to know......hamsters?
I don't know anything about no hamsters... to quote Sgt. Schulz- "I know nothing- I know nothing..."
Hmmmmm....
Platt thinks we get rubber duckies to make hammy-sters into mounts.... then they could be nightly duckies and run the lasts with teethpixies...
Then they can all join the nightly ordering of the Wholy Rubber Ducky!
;D
Quote from: Demetrius on June 10, 2009, 11:35:49 AM
I don't know anything about no hamsters... to quote Sgt. Schulz- "I know nothing- I know nothing..."
ahem.....
what we have here, is a failure to communicate......
this boy's mind ain't right..........
must be all that chocolate hamster milk he drinks...........
Chocolate Hamster Milk? My question still applies...how the heck do you milk a hamster?
Does anyone remember this from the let's meet at the Scottish/Irish festival in Estes last year?
(http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t278/demetrius_060/EstesPark3.jpg)
I think its utterly crazy that you don't know how to milk a chocolate hamster. My question is why would you want to milk a chocolate hamster into a flask?
Quote from: Sir Garath on June 10, 2009, 12:05:45 PM
I think its utterly crazy that you don't know how to milk a chocolate hamster. My question is why would you want to milk a chocolate hamster into a flask?
because people look at you funny if you walk around suckling a hamster.
Platt is sitting here singing hamster songs....
Harvey, Harvey,
Harvey the Wonder Hamster;
He doesn't bite and he doesn't squeal,
He just runs around on his Hamster Wheel!
Harvey, Harvey,
Harvey......the wonder Hamster..
HEY HARVEY!
("Weird" Al)
Quote from: RenaissanceBarbie on June 10, 2009, 11:31:55 AM
Ok, I'm a little scared but I want to know......hamsters?
You see- hamsters seem to have a life of their own here... if you go way back in time- oh say a few months or so- and check out some older threads- you shall witness hamster evolution... seriously... you will notice too I had nothing to do with it.
For the real truth you must seek info from Hey Aren't You- for it is with he that the truth of Hamstern shall be reviled... er, revealed...
Quote from: Demetrius on June 10, 2009, 12:19:50 PM
Quote from: RenaissanceBarbie on June 10, 2009, 11:31:55 AM
Ok, I'm a little scared but I want to know......hamsters?
You see- hamsters seem to have a life of their own here... if you go way back in time- oh say a few months or so- and check out some older threads- you shall witness hamster evolution... seriously... you will notice too I had nothing to do with it.
For the real truth you must seek info from Hey Aren't You- for it is with he that the truth of Hamstern shall be reviled... er, revealed...
OH no. can't pin this on me. (cuz I'm quick like that.)
I only suggested tying hamsters to the jousters lances instead of favors because they were riding elephants.
It was Tanda who wanted to make them little suits......
next thing I knew, YOU were cookin them up, and DeLaney was wolfin 'em down like candy.......
You CO people need to come down from the high altitude every now and then. That thin air up there is messing with your heads. ;)
But seriously, if you'd like to keep this discussion going, that's fine, but let's get it back on topic. Otherwise, I can lock it down if it's served it's purpose since it seems to have run its course.
I've had a request to not lock this thread, but again I insist that this stay on topic. As fun as the hamster discussion is, it has nothing to do with this thread.
The hamster topic is generally thrown in when certain people are afraid there is too much controversy being stirred up by a particular thread. I appreciate the attempt to lighten the mood, especially since certain people should be VERY careful what they say in public forums such as these.
Jack, this is the sort of thing I'm talking about. CRF terrifies its employees so thoroughly through their actions that people are afraid to speak their mind. Hell, Paradise has threatened to ban people before just for membership on a ren fair discussion list (It wasnt, after all, approved by him!). This will only continue so long as people allow themselves to be threatened into submission. This is not something new, I've been saying this for over 10 years now. And guess what, people continue to allow it to happen, so it *does* continue to happen.
*waves* The being scared of losing you job if you open your mouth is a good point. I don't have that feeling here, but I just barely tasted Entertainment employment before things were taken back. Yeah it sucked, yeah it had awful timing. But I'm just hoping its not killing anyones spirit. (yeah cause I felt just freakin' skippy after I got my call) But I'm going to be heartbroken if next year all the people who were... let go... decide not to come back. :(
Mr. Paradise sounds like a good name for a professional wrestler.
From what you describe he doesn't sound like the kind of person who should be involved in a renaissance faire. If I was fired a week before opening (if I worked at faires) I would give all the information to the local news and see if they would be interested in running an expose on what occurred.
I recommend staking out a spot on the road in front of the festival property (not on the property) and holding a large sign describing what happened.
The sign could say "Mr. Paradise fired X people from the faire, one week before opening day. Don't support the faire."
Those tactics work well for labor unions...here in NY they have a large inflatable rat they put in front of businesses who treat union employees poorly.
Regards,
CB
First and foremost...I have no intention of choosing a side in this arguement. Everyone that has posted here has absolutely valid things to say. They are afterall our opionions and should always be honored by others. Even if the opinions are in disagreement with what others feel. Is that not what one of the liberties gained by that little conflict brought up by Radu? ;D the freedom of speech?
As it has been said, Neversilent, you are a coward, and I stand behind the challenge for you to publicly apologize and identify yourself. I fully understand your grievence with this whole issue, but you are no better a person for starting horrible rumors on a public forum then the people that this whole nonsence stemmed from in the first place. I also caught that you were a member before posting your OP...and I think I have a pretty good idea who you are in fact. But Im not going to give you the satisfaction...nor the scapegoat of reveling that. So, again...that guntlet has been thrown down and its up to you to grow the cajones and pick it up. If not, I certianly hope, whether we ever find out who you are or not, that you are ashamed of yourself.
Radu- I have ever admired your outright demenor and no BS attidude. I fully back your right to say whatever you wish, as this is a public forum and obviously you have no desire to return to the faire, so say what you will, Huzzah. However, while I agree with you that the only way anyone is going to not be stepped on anymore by the faire, or ANY faire really, is by standing as one united front...you are asking a lot I feel. While the majority of the cast probalby would at this point in the game, I can gaurentee there are about 5 people that would never go against the faire Thus, we are un-united. Those that have it so good they refuese to ruin it, even for the sake of their "family" So, while that is all rebellious and good and what not on paper....fat chance. Plus, there are new suckers turning 18 before every summer here. There will always be a fresh supply of people that have absolutely no clue what to expect that can be taken advantage of. So inciting a rebellion when not eveyone is on board is tentamount to idiocy.
I too have heard it said that some would rather do without the cast, and really, in truth, we DO take more money than we provide, its just a matter of people needing to see that what we provide will eventually, down the line, turn a profit. No cast= less patrons willing to pay $20 to get into an outdoor shopping mall because you can go to one 10 miles up the highway for free = less money being put in pockets. Unfortunately, I think that some people are the kind that are on a "make the mistake and learn from it" type basis...and cant really see the consequences of future actions. While one may think that eliminating the cast to eliminate the amount of money being put into it may put that money in thier pockets, will find undoubtedly that that money will need to go toward other things to bolster other parts of the faire (i.e better rides, more stage acts, better and more food ect) to make up for the loss of that entertainment and keep their business open. Lest the entire thing go down the toilet all together. I fully expect within the next few years for the cast to be completely eliminated...and after a season or two of that, we will see a change of heart. Though, I sincerely hope I am wrong.
This is why I say "we can only control ourselves." Because there are going to be people that you, point blank, will not convince to stand up and say "no." So, I am merely encouraging people to weigh their options, make a decision for themselves and see it through. As you have done, some can leave and never look back. Others will want to stay in good graces for when the Faire up-swings and things are good again, and some will ever blindly serve no matter what.
So, with that, I believe Votaire said it perfectly "I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it."
Agreed. And I will admit, I'm one of these people who, as a small business owner, can see the wisdom behind your words. Things will pick up, however, I think important lessons will be learned, and feelings will be bruised.
As of now, I don't want to burn any bridges, and hopefully when the management sees the value of having a cast, I'll be able to throw my hat in the ring. Until that point, I'll have fun, show up on weekends, and keep trying to have fun.
Radu also has good points. We do need to make a stand at some point, but we need to choose the side carefully. Again, it's about either being diplomatic about this, or burning bridges as we cross them, and potentially watching the fair shut down completely.
So, ultimately, lets hold strong, remain focused on making this fair better in whatever way we, the little people, can. Trust me, this debate alone is offering ideas on how to go about this.
Until this state has another faire... it's going to be near impossible to get everyone to avoid this faire. Lets face it, it's a good faire and people have fun and enjoy it. And I am not talking cast or crew, I am talking playtrons, and paytrons alike. IF the faire goes down the tube it will be a sad loss to this state as it is the only good faire we have. And until someone comes up with a million or more $$$ to start a new faire, this one will keep right on going until either the lease runs out and they have to move it, or get tired of it or sell it off to someone else.
Until that time it's the only faire I can make on a regular bases and I will continue to go. I have been coming since the late 80's and I have seen many many changes. Some good some bad and some made no differeance what so ever.
lets face it, this is like many jobs. Many jobs dump on some and bow to others. No job is perfect and if you don't want the job, there are hundreds if not thousands of others that do want your job for even a short time. If you don't like how the faire treats you as a worker, fine, go on strike against it. But you will never get everyone to strike with you. That's just the way people in this country are. It's easier to complain than do something about it.
Stand outside with your sign protesting and I will honk to show I believe in you, but then again do not get angery that I want to enjoy my day at faire cut down cast or not.
Laney,
Your words are music. :) And again, agreed. Also, I seriously doubt Paradise would let this fair go away. And I highly doubt anyone wishes this. <besides, with the miracles I've seen this year, including a mammoth turnaround in my own life, I believe anything is possible>
Okay, since I had to come back to this thread because of members creating anonymous accounts to post here, the anonymous accounts and posts from them have been deleted due to violating forum rules. This thread is now closed.