RenaissancePerformers&Merchants

Meet Chaste Treasure - Northeast group looking to expand to West coast!

2019-03-14T12:08:00.001-07:00

1. What is it that you do?

We’re a women’s a cappella group that sings in festivals all over the country.

2. Where are you located?

We’re based on the East Coast (Philly specifically), but we’ve traveled to Alabama, Louisiana, Florida, and even Montana. We’re always expanding.

3. What got you interested in starting out in this business?

I started working at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire in 2010. I was so enamored with it that I just wanted to do it all the time. In 2013, while working as the music director for the New Jersey Renaissance Faire, one of the staff directors asked me to make an all-women music group for our show. The next year, we were asked to perform at the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival, and it’s just gotten bigger and wilder since then.

4. What is your local faire or home faire?

We consider New Jersey our home faire.

5. Do you travel and if so, how far will you go?

We would go absolutely anywhere if asked. We just need enough time to plan on how to get there.

6. What advice do you have to give to others that are just starting out in this business?

Get it all in writing. Know your worth and get it in writing. I’ve been surprised by how many different events find it hard to create a contract.

7. How do you handle thefts or copying of your works?

We make a big effort to pay people royalties. If we haven’t written the song, and we record it, the person who created the piece deserves to be paid for their efforts. We’re trying our best to be artists of integrity and I think other artists see that and appreciate it. We haven’t had any problems yet. We also have to be honest with ourselves. Being a bawdy women’s singing act on the circuit isn’t new. Iris and Rose, The Merry Wives of Windsor, not to mention dozens of acts like the Sultry Sirens at PA that are in-house - we know a lot of what we do isn’t entirely original. We just try to make it ours the best ways we can.

8. What is your favorite food at faire?

The Greek booth at the Louisiana Renaissance Faire (sorry Dave’s Donuts). So much food and they really cater to all kinds of appetites. We’ve got vegans and dietary restrictions in our group, and they really cover everything without much trouble.

9. What would you say (nicely) to a faire manager or owner?

That we’re grateful for all of the opportunities we’ve been given so far and we just want to keep performing and expanding our business. Also, please get in touch with me with more than 3 months notice. It’s really hard to travel super far and get the personnel to clear their schedules when we only have a month’s worth of heads up.

10. What do you have for a set (music/performance?)

We actually don’t have a set list. We do practices where we work on about 30-40 songs and we just call them during the set. It gives us a lot of options and the ability to really cater to our audience, depending on what they enjoy.

11. Do you do this all year long or do you just do it once a year?

The group operates year-round. Not all of us do it all year round, but we’re all professional performers. I think that’s the biggest question we get. A lot of people think we do this just for fun. Yes, we do, that’s absolutely evident, but we also do this as our real job all over the country. Performing is not a hobby. It’s our lives.

12. How else do you promote your music/performance?

Social media and special events. We’ve got a couple of awesome concerts coming up this year that we’re super excited about. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to find out more!

13. In five years (or less) my goal is to: ___________________

Break more into the west coast. There are so many shows over there - Oregon, Washington, Arizona - and a couple of our core members have relocated to California. We’d really love to break into that market and show them what we can do.

14. At faire, what garb/attire is your usual go to?

40 lbs of costuming! We all wear courtly garb. Now, that can vary greatly depending on the performer. Sultana Lyla is from Zanzibar, so her outfit is regal in a very different way. I’ve been told that Fraulein Elsa has an awesome new authentic German dress from the period coming out shortly. It’s all noble garb, just weird variations of it.

15. How many Faires other than those you are performing do you go to?

At least a couple a year. I personally go to maybe 2 or 3. We’ve got other members that will check out other shows for fun (cause we love them), so I think we average maybe 10 a year.

16. Plug your website or fan page here (or both)

My name is Melissa L. E. Baker, Producing Director We are Chaste Treasure www.chastetreasure.com www.facebook.com/chastetreasure @chastetreasure on Instagram and Twitter

Meet Catherine Worthley out of Portland, ME - Bagpiper - Dragon of Wortley

2019-03-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

I am a solo wandering mistral, piper (medieval small-pipes, GHB) and singer songwriter from Portland Maine. I record and produce albums in my own studio to sell at events and download over the internet.

Until 2001 I toured doing Celtic Festivals and Highland Games from Maine to Florida and Oklahoma. The last season I worked the circuit I was booked into a Renaissance Fair working opposite a sword duo. It was so much fun that I vowed (despite disapproval from my partner) to expand into the Rennie world the next season. The next season never came due to the WTC attack and I went back into public service to do what I could to help heal the country. In 2018 I hit retirement age so I hung up the uniform and started working to get back on the festival road. I spent the winter recording an album of my songs, developing marketing and promotional material and chugging away on my sewing machine.

I have been performing since my teens. I started in coffeehouses, did my time working bars, graduated to music series concerts, tour boats and eventually the festivals. Traveling has always been enjoyable. It does not take much to get me to hit the road for a new experience. I made many friends in the places I have gone.

I am setting up my performing schedule now. Being the fist season back I do not expect it to be jam packed as it will be in five yeas so I will be picking up the slack by attending several bigger fairs as a patron and rebuilding connections. In the down time it’s all about recording, promotion and networking. Finally I am at a point where I can do this full time again.

Until 2001 I ranged from Maine to Florida to Oklahoma performing at Celtic Festivals and Highland Games. Times changed and so did I but now I am back.

I am starting this year as a wandering minstrel with my (assimilated) two drone small-pipes, Great Highland Bagpipes, guitar and whistle. I am contacting festivals with in a days drive to offer my solo services.

Visit my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Dragon-of-Wortley

Listen to a studio recording https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/dragonofwortley

Or contact me

catherinewothley@hotmail.com

Releases spring 2019

C.A. Worthley, Portland Maine 207 632 8474

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A/N - thanks Catherine for that great interview! If you or your troupe or group would like to be featured on the blog, please reach out to us on the fan page Renaissance Performers and Merchants Fan page .

I do not do any research or background on any of the interviews here and this is just a promotional service.

Review of "Planned Piratehood" by The Bilge Pumps - Sea (C) Minus

2019-02-22T12:28:00.002-08:00

I was asked to review a CD called "Planned Piratehood" by The Bilge Pumps
https://www.thebilgepumps.com/treasure.cgi?cat=music&pid=CD-PP

Well me mates, it be that time again when I get to listen to rollickin' Pirate tunes - all 28 songs on 2 CDs.

I do have to mention that I am first and foremost a musician (and a Classically Trained Musician who just happens to play jazz and play some Renaissance Faire Pub tunes).

I do like certain Sea Shanties among other songs, I find them interesting especially if the harmonies are tight. In fact, I'm pretty sure that the original Pirates that went out sailing the world probably did sing Sea Shanties (that's a known fact).

So..yeah, I listened to this CD and here is my review.

According to the band leader there are a few cover tunes on this CD that he says he got "Mechanical License" from. For me, cover tunes that are more "modern" don't belong at a faire (and no, I'm not trying to be that "historically accurate" person) but at all the faires I've been to here in New England they don't really allow that (minus one group I can think of). Sure, you can get away with doing some modern tunes if you put a "Celtic" or Renaissance themed feel to them.

Other tunes on this CD just don't belong. Fellas, not for nothing, but deep rock and roll and metallic rock don't blend in with this theme of music that you are trying to portray.

Also, the harmonies on most of the songs (not all of them) well, let's just say you can do better. I know you can do it as on some of the songs (like track 1 of CD 1) is pretty good.

There was one tune (I forget which one) had a Caribbean Drum in it and well, I think the person playing this instrument should have practiced it a little bit more before they recorded it.

My teenager (age 14), myself and my hubby all enjoyed "Rippy the Gator" tune immensely, it was wrong but really funny. I suppose if you like dark humor you will like it too.

There were roughly 5 tracks all in all that I enjoyed.

If you like Pirate type music, you might enjoy this CD and I hope you do.

My review is a SEA MINUS (C-). Guys, next time you think about doing a CD, maybe practice a little more before you record it.

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A/N - this review is my opinion and I was given the CD by the group to review. If you or your group would like to be featured on this page, please reach out to us via e mail or via the fan page.

Meet Dusepo Instruments from UK

2019-02-15T02:49:00.000-08:00

1.What is it that you do or sell?

I am a luthier, which is a lute maker. I build a wide range of historical and world instruments, but I specialize in medieval and renaissance lutes.

2.Where are you located?

I am in London, UK (Britain), but I ship worldwide.

3.What got you interested in starting out in this business?

I have always been obsessed with instruments and music, and I have been fortunate enough to be able to make a living from it.

4.When did you start selling or performing?

About 10 years ago.

5.What is your local faire or home faire?

There are many re-enactment events in London and elsewhere in the UK.

6.Do you travel and if so, how far will you go?

Currently this is not possible unless are near London, but I do ship worldwide.

7.What advice do you have to give to others that are just starting out in this business?

Stay focused and stay inspired!

8.What is your favorite food at faire?

I love food and cookery, so I like to try a little bit of everything! I guess I like trying new things.

9.Why Renaissance Faires or theme? What is it that made you so interested in this period?

I have always been interested in history and I love the music of the medieval and renaissance periods.

10. Do you do this all year long or do you just do it once a year?

All year round – it’s my full-time job.

11.Plug your website or fan page here (or both)

My website is www.dusepo.co.uk

Meet the Twisted Knickers Band - WA area

2018-12-15T03:21:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your act?

Twisted Knickers
Where are you located and where is your home faire?

Lakewood, WA and Alls Faire
What is it that you do?

We are a Comedy Folk band that plays innocent folk songs great for children’s birthday parties up to lively pub songs suitable for late-night cable.
When did you start performing or vending at Renaissance Faires?

Falstaff started playing All’s Faire in 2013 as a featured act and when we assembled Twisted Knickers in 2017 we played there and look forward to playing there next year.
What inspired you to start performing or vending?

Falstaff’s wife Shaughnessy has been on the vending circuit for 35+ years and after winning a guitar playing bingo, music was regularly filling their booth. Soon after an invitation to come play at All’s Faire came along and the rest, as they say, is history.
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Be patient. It takes time to build a reputation as a musician. Most importantly, show up with your instruments tuned and ready to go, get on and off the stage as fast as practical and be as professional as possible at all times.
What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

When is my first set?
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

I have a long history with Faires and Festivals and have built an audience for my music there.
How else do you promote your wares/business/act?

We have a Facebook page and Reverbnation site. We have a manager who will be finding ways to promote us and our venues.
Tell us about your home faire and why you love it so much?

All’s Faire took a chance on me early on, and continues to be supportive of me, my band, and until we retired from vending, our vending booth.
Plug your website/fan page here: https://www.facebook.com/twistedknickersband/?ref=br_rs ; https://www.reverbnation.com/twistedknickers

Order! Order of Epona!

2018-11-24T04:15:00.000-08:00

1. What is the name of your act?

— Order of Epona

2. What is it that you do?

— We are an equestrian performance troupe from Fort Collins Colorado. We put on a theatrical medieval show that include mounted medieval games, live steel sword fighting, equestrian stunts, and of course light armor jousting.

3. How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

— at the end of the year we gather as a troupe and come up with a new show with all new fights and stunts and ways to wow the crowd.

4. Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are steady at?

— We travel from faire to faire. We travel down to New Mexico, Montana, Idaho, and do some local events in Northern Colorado.

5. When did you start performing at renaissance faires?

— We started in 2010 and have been performing for 8 years

6. How else do you promote your act?

— Mainly social media. Word of mouth is also an amazing way to promote our troupe.

7.What inspired you to start performing?

— It started with a couple friends who loved horses and wanted to do more than just ride. Jeremy Johnson, our main knight and owner of the troupe, love medieval stuff since he was a kid and thought it would be fun to put the two together.

8. Facebook page www.facebook.com/orderofepona

Website www.orderofepona.wixsite.com/orderofepona

Instagram @orderofepona

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A/N Thanks to Order of Epona for their fantastic interview! They look fantastic!

If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured on the blog, please reach out to us on the fan page http://www.facebook.com/renperfmerch and we'll get back to you!

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. My Thanksgiving was bitter sweet. Thanks to all of you who reached out to me on my dad's passing, I really appreciate it.

Hugs and Happy Holidays!

It's Magic! Daniel Greenwolf : Celtic Magician

2018-11-17T03:57:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your act?

Daniel GreenWolf: Celtic Magician
Where are you located or where is your home faire?

I was born and raised in CT and my home faire has been the Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire of Ansonia, CT for the past 8 years.
What is it that you do?

I perform a show that combines Highly Visual Magic, interactive Comedy, Storytelling, some Possible Doomity Death, and wrap it all up in the theme of Celtic Myths, History, and Culture.
When did you start performing at Renaissance Faires?

I visited my first Renaissance Faire at 12 years old and started performing at my first faire, The Festival of the Lion Renaissance Faire in Grafton, MA when I was 14.
What inspired you to start performing?

When I was 12, my parents took me to the New York Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo Park, NY and I was blown away by this whole other world that the faire created. I had already been in Magic for 2 years at that point and knew I wanted to be a professional Magician even then. But in the Renaissance Faire, I saw “Magical, Mystical, Michael”, “Dextre Tripp”, and “Stewart & Arnold Knife Throwers”. These variety acts showed me that you could just perform at these Renaissance Faires and, at 12, I assumed you made a living doing it. So I went home and started writing to as many Renaissance Faires in the Northeast as possible and begged them for stage time. I didn't even ask for money- I just wanted to perform and get experience. And then, after a couple of years, this little one weekend faire in Grafton, MA run by the local Lions Club and specifically Al Fairbrother, who was their entertainment director, took pity on me and gave me my first shot. And from there it built to me performing at a couple dozen Renaissance Faires across the country over twenty years.
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

You're going to suck. There's no way around it- you are not as good as most of the acts in the Renaissance Faire, no matter how good you think you are. ESPECIALLY if you've been doing shows outside of Renaissance Faires. Ren Faires are a very different style. It's possibly the last bastion of Vaudeville performance (with the exception of Burlesque shows that have started gaining new life) and with this very specific theatrical style comes specific requirements to be successful. Go to faires, talk to good acts, ask them questions, take their advice, don't be a pompous schmuck. You will get better.
What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

Not all Magicians are the same! (That one was slightly self-serving, I admit) In all honesty, I would say that Renaissance Faires can only boost each other up if they exist. If we work together, we can create a community that helps each other succeed. So many producers think they have to salt the earth in order to succeed in this business and it's just not true. As long as a faire is going on the same time, 10 minutes away from you, they're not competition. They're comrades.
How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

I love adding new pieces of Magic to my show. But the truth is that, because I'm so interactive with the audience and so aware of the environment around me during my show, every show is different. I used to get worried that I would have a few pieces of Magic that I've done in the past but I've had people ask about them when I've taken them out. So even though I create new Magic, I always like to leave in a piece here an there that people associate with “Daniel GreenWolf”.
What is your top 3 things you advise to new people coming into this business?

-Don't be a Jerk! This is a Renaissance Faire, not Brain Surgery. Realize how lucky we are to be doing this for a living or even just a hobby.
-Get ready for a lot of rejection. Whether you are a vendor or a professional act or an actor- faires are going to say “No”. It's okay. Eventually, someone will give you a break, but you have to keep fighting through the sea of “No”.

-Fans you make from a Renaissance Faire are- THE BEST FANS IN THE WORLD. I'm not just blowing smoke here. They are the most supportive, the most fun, and want you to succeed in your business as much as you do. I have fans that haven't seen me live in years that still follow me on social media and love what I do and buy my products and back my kickstarters because they connected with me. And I love them for it.

Plug your website/fan page here:

www.GreenWolfMagic.com

www.Facebook.com/GreenWolfMagic

www.instagram.com/danielgreenwolf

www.twitter.com/danielgreenwolf

www.MFRenFaire.com

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A/N Thanks Daniel Greenwolf: Side note, we actually know each other from a very long time ago (cough cough) and I remember being at Grafton Festival of the Lions as well (it was such a sweet show that is no longer going on). He actually performed for our little show called Winslowshire in 2009 or 2010 (I can't remember).

If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured on this blog, please reach out to us on the fan page and send us a message.

I am dealing with some personal family stuff at the moment though so hopefully I'll be able to continue this as soon as I possibly can, but I do appreciate you reading the blog, being a fan or being part of this fantastic community!

I'd like to dedicate this post to my dad who just passed away on Friday morning (11/16/18) even though he was not into my "world", I think he was proud of our little show at Hammond Castle and knew I loved to entertain folks. Hug your parents. Hug your kids. Be kind to one another.

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone and I hope you get at least one Turkey Leg!

En Guarde! The Duelists

2018-10-06T04:15:00.001-07:00

What is the name of your act?

The Duelists

2. When did you start performing or vending at Renaissance Faires?

I had already been attending the renaissance faire as a patron for years, but began performing at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in 1989, as part of the Tournament of Horse, and a 'fighting squire' in the joust. We competed in equestrian games, were part of the daily opening ceremonies of faire, escorted the jousters into the arena, with lots of pageantry adding to the ambiance of the Faire. I was also performing at Medieval Times at the time...which meant riding and performing at Pleasure Faire during the day, then racing from the faire to Medieval Times in a mad dash if I was going to get there on time, a super fast costume change, jump onto a horse (again) and race into the arena to ride and perform for *that* show. I generally got there within minutes of showtime.

What inspired you to start performing or vending?

I've always been a performer since I was a kid...middle school and High school plays, and then the film industry. Faire's for me were another stage to perform, something very unique and different than any other theatre I'd experienced and a GREAT place you had individual latitude to create and develop the characters you were portraying. In fact Pleasure Faire was an incredible training ground in Improvisation, character development, history, dialects, and stage combat. We had exceptionally creative and talented working professionals in film and theater-Actors, directors, costumers, even Disney Imagineers-- who were teaching workshops and performing at the faires so the training and experience was absolutely fantastic!

The Reduced Shakespeare Company--who everyone knows now, and who've performed on Broadway and Piccadilly Circus, started at the Pleasure Faire, which shows you how much talent and creativity was there at the time.

I was so impressed and drawn in by the whole thing, like a moth to flame.

What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?
I would ask owners and ED's [Entertainment Directors - A/N] to hire acts based on the Quality of the act.
Although it exists everywhere, one of the issues I often see is nepotism. In my humble opinion, there are some acts that, by all rights, really need another few years of experience before they're ready to perform in front of the public, but because they're connected or friends with an ED, or part of "the clique" they're immediately hired. Yet other more experienced acts have a much harder time getting a foothold. Not every festival is that way, of course, but enough are that it is an issue.
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

For me, its a very unique and different venue than any other out there. As one of the original "nerds" who was very much into swordfighting and fantasy books and movies (Conan the Barbarian, Lord of the Rings, Sword of Shanara) WELL before it was "cool," renaissance faires were like stepping into the past, what with all the swords and costumes and color and pageantry...it was something totally unique and different than anything I'd ever experienced...and it was filled with History!

How else do you promote your act?

We predominantly promote The Duelists through Social Media and our online presence. As a stage act, we're in a unique situation; we don't rely on the public to hire us; it's the faire owners, producers and ED's who hire us, so although we want our fans for support, they don't directly hire us, the ED's and Owners do, so its a very narrow, very specific target we pursue.
Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?
We are actors, fight directors and models, and we perform all over the country; not just renaissance festivals, but also film and TV, Music videos, fight choreography gigs and modeling. The two man comedy swordfight show at renaissance festivals is just *one* thing we do. For five years we performed with Green Meadows Productions, a national, touring cultural show that kept us booked 4-5 days during the week, 8 months out of the year. During Nov/Dec, we performed in CA during the week (Green Meadows) and Louisiana on the weekends (Louisiana Ren Fest). So, Fridays, we'd finish the CA show, race to the airport, get into Louisiana at 2am, perform during the weekend, then Sunday night as soon as we finished our last show, RACE back to the airport, fly back to CA, and be ready to go Monday morning. Suffice it to say, we..uh...bent a few speeding limits!

For us, as I said Renaissance Festivals are just one venue we can perform for--there are others we pursue, as well. But if its a Swordfighting show, we can do it.
Favorite Food at Faire? What is it?

We very rarely eat faire food; we work out and eat healthy on a daily basis, so we always pack our food and bring it with us every day. (if you've seen our calendar, you know we can't afford NOT to eat healthy! Really, the only way to keep doing this is to stay healthy!
Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

ABSOLUTELY! I think were different than a lot of people in how we approach what we do. Money is important, of course, but for us, money is just one thing we consider. We would rather perform at an event that respects us, and treats us well, than one that doesn't. The questions we ask ourselves are, "Is the faire professionally run?" "Are the owners business minded and professional, or do they run the faire based on their personal whims?" "Are acts hired based on their quality and professionalism, or do they just hire their friends?"
We've even cut starting faires a break on our fees if we believe in them, and have worked with them above and beyond our stage shows to help in whatever way we can to create a successful faire.

What's important to us is a professional, well run festival, with minimal drama....not just how much money we walk away with.
Plug your website/fan page here:

http://Www.duelists.com

http://www.facebook.com/theduelists

http://www.instagram.com/theduelists

http://www.youtube.com/theduelists

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A/N

Thanks to Randal from the Duelists (he's the blond one ;)) for this amazing insight to The Duelists!

If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured on the blog, please reach out to us on the fan page and I will personally get back to you.

I can't thank all of you enough for your continued support of this blog, the fan page and of course being a member of the group!

I also want to shout out to all of you who were concerned about my health. Turned out to be nothing - so yay, but ladies, please go get your tata's checked. I am here to encourage you and be there for you if need be.

Also, a little shout out of Thanks goes to Renaissance Magazine for featuring our little show Abbadia Mare Festival in Gloucester, MA in their #117 edition.

<3 Gia

Meet the lovely Ladies in Scarlet Art and Accessories - MN area

2018-08-11T06:01:00.000-07:00

What is the name of your merchant booth/business?

Ladies in Scarlet Art and Accessories. We are the "Ladies": Deb Peterson and Darla Ecklund.
Where are you located?

Minneapolis, Minnesota
What is it that you sell?

As the name implies, art and accessories, but our main "product" is the Legend Card set. It's a set of two custom cards: one with your portrait drawn by Darla and the other is an excerpt from your "legend" written by Deb.
When did you start vending at Renaissance Faires?

Our first event was the Port Washington Pirate Festival in 2011.
What inspired you to start vending?

We wanted to do something together that used both of our talents (drawing and writing). Darla came up with the idea of the cards. Deb had already done some vending at Port Washington Pirate Festival, so we decided to start there.
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

This is where folks dress up and play their personas. We had seen so many interesting characters that we felt needed to have their "legends" created - and no one else was doing anything quite like this!
What is your Favorite Faire?

We really like A Gathering of Rogues and Ruffians, which will be held in Baraboo, WI this October. It's a small faire but it has a great atmosphere and some really awesome people. Besides Faires we do a few Cons as well. We have found the Steampunk community has really embraced our cards, because these folks go to a lot of time and trouble to create unique characters. We have done TeslaCon in Madison WI, but probably our favorite Steampunk event is 13 Gears in our hometown of Minneapolis.
How do you promote your business?

Most of our promotion is on social media. Of course, word of mouth is the best. Our customers show their cards to their friends, and the friends want them too.
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Find your niche and go all in! Love what you do and can't go wrong.
What is next for Ladies in Scarlet?

We are doing our first wizarding convention - ExpectoCon August 17-19 in Madision WI. (It's put on by the same folks who do TeslaCon.) We hope to do more fantasy events to include more characters and more variations on the "legends". We meet the most wonderful people this way!
Plug your website/fan page here:

Thanks - don't mind if we do! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Ladies.in.Scarlet/ and our website www.redbess.com You can also see more of Darla's artwork at www.facebook.com/Darlaecklundart/ and follow Deb's pirate adventures as Red Bess at www.facebook.com/notorious.she.pirate/

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A/N

A/N:

Hello! Thank you so much for reading my blog! Thanks to Ladies in Scarlet Art and Accessories for supporting us and the blog and of course helping keep Renaissance Festivals alive and well!

My name is Gia Volterra de Saulnier and I am the owner of this blog and also the fan page http://www.facebook.com/renperfmerch .

My mission and goal is to help keep promoting performers, merchants and Renaissance events from around the United States and other portions of the World.

This is the most recent picture of me (I'm in the white hat and blue bodice) at an event we do here in MA called Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival at Hammond Castle Museum.

I have 18 years of performing experience in the MA/New England area, and for the last 10 years have been co-directing with my husband our own shows here in MA.

I would like to note that I do NOT do any research or homework on any events, performers or merchants that want to be featured. If you would like more information on anybody I feature, please contact them directly.

I thank you for your continued support and HUZZAH to the Faire Community!

Bizare Feats of Rhythm and Melody - Tom Smiter - Atlanta area

2018-08-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

What is the name of your act?

Tom Smiter— Bizarre Feats of Rhythm And Melody

Where are you located?

I live in the metro Atlanta area.

What is it that you do?

I have a solo musical variety act wherein I will sing and/or play recorder, guitar, hand percussion, and other instruments while playing rhythms with my feet (kinda hard to explain so here’s this promo video ). I focus on music from Shakespeare’s time or before, all the way back to around 1300, and I like to stay in character, throw in some humor, and make it fun. People come to renaissance festivals to be entertained, so if they’re going to learn something, they have to laugh, too.

When did you start performing or vending at Renaissance Faires?

2005

What inspired you to start performing?

I’ve always been a musician, long before I was doing renaissance festivals. My senior year of high school I was section leader of two sections. I have majored in music, taught music, and played a lot of different kinds of music in a lot of different settings. For instance, on other weekends I play in an 80s cover band.

What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Learn as many disciplines as you can. Don’t JUST be a musician of one instrument or JUST be one character— learn to be a comprehensive entertainer. Don’t EITHER give them content OR entertainment— learn to pick AND grin. Never assume that because the people in charge seem to like your act that this means they’ll want you back, and always be in search of new venues and opportunities, even if you currently have as many as you want. Learn to get along with other performers because you never know where else on the circuit you’ll see them again or in what capacity or role. Always look for ways to improve your act, and be open to feedback from others. And nothing good ever comes from telling another performer how much you are paid.

What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

No stage act wants to be scheduled during a joust because almost nobody will be at their show, so don’t schedule shows during jousts (some faire directors actually get that, believe it or not). Few, if any, stage acts want to move from one stage to another during the festival day, especially if they use wireless sound equipment, so do all you can to keep an act on the same stage. Promote the acts you get with website, social media, and on-site signage and inform the public ahead of time because no act wants to be the faire’s best-kept secret. Build stages where patrons are going to know they exist and easily get to them. Keep bagpipers at a safe distance from stages (at least two miles). Same goes for amplified rock bands with electric guitars and full drum sets (if, for whatever reason, you have those at a "renaissance" festival). Acknowledge that the sun exists, realize that many patrons will try to stay out of it (even if that means staying away from attractions where there is no tree shade or installed canopy), and build/alter your structures and venues accordingly so that patrons will want to go to things.

Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

I was madly in love with renaissance music for many years before I performed at my first renaissance festival, but it was through playing at a progressive rock festival in Atlanta that I met the original lineup of The Lost Boys and was eventually recruited to be the drummer. The best character name I could devise for a renaissance percussionist was Tom Smiter, and the name resonated well enough that after my time as a regular in the Lost Boys lineup was over and I wanted to pursue a solo act, I kept the name. I’ve always lamented that so little of the music performed at Renaissance faires is post-American Civil War, and I wanted to make the most of a world where there is at least some market for actual period music. Also, an act like mine, which combines disciplines in an inventive way to make it work, is very much in the spirit of the age.

How else do you promote your act?

www.facebook.com/TomSmiter

www.twitter.com/SmiterTom

NEW : https://www.facebook.com/TomSmiter/videos/1947155748916458/

Do you have children if so, how do you handle that or how do you handle children at your act?

I limit the number of road faires that I play, and I do what I can to reciprocate and cover parenting responsibilities when my wife wants to go out of town with friends for a weekend.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

A/N:

Hello! Thank you so much for reading my blog! Thanks to Tom Smiter for supporting us and the blog and of course helping keep Renaissance Festivals alive and well!

My name is Gia Volterra de Saulnier and I am the owner of this blog and also the fan page http://www.facebook.com/renperfmerch .

My mission and goal is to help keep promoting performers, merchants and Renaissance events from around the United States and other portions of the World.

This is the most recent picture of me (I'm in the white hat and blue bodice) at an event we do here in MA called Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival at Hammond Castle Museum.

The one...the only...the magnificent Miguel from "The Don Juan and Miguel Show" (r)

2018-06-17T04:21:00.000-07:00

What is the name of your act? What is it that you do/sell?

I play the part of “Miguel” in “The Don Juan and Miguel Show®” We are a comedy show featuring swordplay and skilled whip-cracking. We are quite interactive and do a minimum of three different shows daily. As far as what do we sell… well, we do have some movies that we produced, wrote and created with the help of many, many, “Rennies”. They are “El Gusano”, “The Lost Princess”, and “I Sense Danger” –these were all filed at different Renaissance festivals. Plus we have a documentary, “An Inside Look” regarding our backstage lives, and a DVD of two of our shows filmed live (with many extras).

We have been a comedy duo since 1980. I say “duo”, but for many years we have been graced with having “Esmeralda”, Don Juan’s actual daughter, perform with us. She has grown up with our show and has become quite the skilled whip-artist herself. Currently she only performs a couple of the festivals a year with us; this year they were the Arizona Renaissance Festival and Scarborough, the Renaissance Festival. When not working with us she creates whips and sells them as “Dakitty Whips” and performs with her husband, Adam Winrich (Adam Crack) as a knife thrower.

Our home festival was King Richard’s Chicago Faire, (currently The Bristol Renaissance Festival). We haven’t performed there since the mid-eighties and are currently based out of Arizona. We started working together in 1980. Both of us were already working King Richard’s when we met and decided to become a team. I, personally, began my Renaissance career in 1976 when I auditioned for this thing called a Renaissance Faire. I was a junior in college majoring in biology. None of us knew what this event was. My dear high school friend Bodge (Baj Burinski-Sheldon) had asked me to go to this audition with her as a “good luck charm”. Little did we know how much affect it would have upon our lives. We performed that summer as “The Jongluers” – an A Cappella Madrigal Troupe. I went on, in 1980, to become “Miguel” and she went on to become “Queen Katherine.” Before her too-soon passing, Baj became a beloved Queen around the festival circuit – finding a home at King Richard’s New England Faire, The Sterling Renaissance Festival, Arizona, and more.

What inspired me? I have always loved performance. The audition with Bodge was Kismet.

What would I say to someone starting out in this business? Well, that it is a business. Yes, we have a terrific community, supportive and nurturing, one which has allowed multi-generations to vend their wares, or perform upon stages. Yet it is a business, and must be approached that way.

What would I say nicely to a promoter or producer of these events? Thank you, that’s what I would say, thank you for the opportunity to perform and have this life.

Why this venue? I love the intimacy of the space, the artistic freedom, the patrons. I love that we have become part of many families’ traditions. I love being outdoors (I am sitting in the sun typing this). I love the “interactive” quality, and honesty of the work. And I love the life it has afforded to me.

About question 11 – As I travel our circuit, we are currently performing at five different festivals yearly and a circuit which has remained the same for these past 12 years, I have a saying that “I am always coming home.” Each faire becomes my “home” faire – and I love them all for different reasons, but mostly for the friends that I get to see each year.

That’s about it.

“Miguel Rodrigo Jesus Alfredo Esteban de Zaragosa

Get your passports! Find out all about Brooks Medieval Faire in Alberta, Canada!

2018-06-02T04:41:00.000-07:00

The Brooks Medieval Faire is the largest Medieval Faire in western Canada and, as of 2018, is celebrating its 15th year. Medieval re-enactors come from all over Alberta and British Columbia to be a part of the festivities.

The faire started out in a local park as a one day fundraiser for the Brooks Public Library. Fairies, belly dancers, sword fighters and vendors came to light up the town and bring a little history as well as entertainment.

Oh how things have changed!

The Brooks Faire had to move to a larger site to accommodate more re-enactors, an IMCF (International Medieval Combat Federation) tournament, jousting, a children's area (Kid's Kingdom), up to 100 vendors and attendance that has gone from 5000 to 8000 people. With new entertainment, vendors and a new jousting team leading 2018, we are aiming for this to be the biggest year yet!

If you find yourself in Alberta Aug 11-12 of 2018, come out and enjoy sword-fighting, games, the Knights of Valour jousting team, food trucks, ale/mead tent, amazingly talented artisan vendors, petting zoo, feast and so much more. There is truly something for everyone at the Brooks Medieval Faire.

http://brooksfaire.com/index.php

Meet a LIVING STATUE and a (real) angel!

2018-05-26T02:54:00.002-07:00

What is the name of your act?

LUTE (Lift Up Thine Eyes) the Living Statue
*What is the name of your merchant booth/business?

Wings and Whimsies
*Where are you located ?

Columbia, SC
*What is it that you do?

I stand very still. Sometimes. But I'm not afraid to steal someone's hat ;)
*What inspired you to start performing or vending?

My very first visit to a Renaissance Festival - I knew I was home.
What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

I'm not sure - is this an opportunity to beg? If so, then: PLEASE hire me. I know your job is difficult, but I promise to make it easier by being where I'm supposed to be when I'm supposed to be there. And giving your patrons a one-of-a-kind experience. I don't take up much space, and I'm verrry quiet. ;)
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

It's a place where everyone is looking for magic, so when it happens they are delighted. People gasp when they see me, or laugh when their friend is startled by the statue. I get to play with a lot of Whovians as well. At a Ren Faire, everyone wants to play along! As an angel statue, I've had people hold my hand and just weep, because they recently lost someone they love. It's an incredible privilege to be able to touch someone's life in that way, even if only for the moment.
*How else do you promote your wares/business/act?

Facebook, postcards, word-of-mouth, showing up somewhere in costume, busking, bribing promoters with cookies...
How do you handle children at your act/booth?

Children will often touch me to see if I’m real. I will slowly reach out to them. They love it. I often invite them onto my pedestal for pictures
*How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

Constantly reacting to people reactions keep my show very fresh. Because I'm a statue, I can look at people and hold their eyes. I don't look away, no matter how big the crowd around us. I see them. Everybody deserves to be seen.
*Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

I love to travel.
*Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

Absolutely! Small faires are some folks' only experience they will ever have at a Renaissance Festival. Magic is not limited by size <3
*Plug your website/fan page here:

www.wingsandwhimsies.vpweb.com

www.facebook.com/Wings-and-Whimsies-158435930917609

Photograph by Ron Tencati

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A/N Wow, just beautiful! I went to New Orleans in 1998 and met a live statue (was it her? hmmm, it might have been her now that I think about it, it WAS an angel!). It was a little surreal and then the statue moved! So neat to see up close! If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured, just reach out to me and I'll get to your request as soon as I can. Please note that my own event is in July so I won't be able to write on the blog as much at that point. Thank you again for your support!

Fun! A Two in one interview with Frank Douglas (and Pokie-Poke) The Jongleur

2018-05-20T04:36:00.000-07:00

RP&M, What is the name of your act?

Frank: helo! my name is Frank Douglas, and at fair I am Pokie-Poke` The Jongleur! (I will not be answering as Pokie, because Pokie can’t read the questions.)

Pokie: YES I CAn’T!!!

RP&M. Where are you located or where is your home faire?

Frank: I am out of Philadelphia Pa. and my home fair is the Lakewood Lions Renaissance Festival.

Pokie: I thought it was a Medieval Festival?

Frank: It was, it is now it is a Renaissance Festival…

Pokie: From Medieval to Renaissance in 20 years? that is quick!

RP&M What is it that you do?

Frank: a Jongleur would often follow the troubadours thru Europe performing whatever would work, Juggling, Magic, Storytelling. they evolved into the court jesters. (less traveling, more foolish)

Pokie: Dose That make me a Prequel?

RP&M What inspired you to start performing?

Frank: I started doing Magic when I was about 7 or 8. Juggling about 13. My first paid job was a magic show. then started street performing when I was in H.S. I’m kinda hooked!

Pokie: wow, shame you didnt have any freinds ….. i like you…

RP&M What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Frank: It is a lot of work, and you are not going to get rich doing it, do it for the love of it, Break a leg!

Pokie: Bring a sandwitch !

RP&M What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

Pokie: Why “nicely”?

Frank: Because Promoters work very hard…

Pokie: so do we

Frank: Because they deal with a lot of people and it can be stressful

Pokie: so do we.

Frank: Because they pay us.

Pokie:   OH……………..ummm………….. WOULD YOU LIKE A PUPPY??

Frank: You're not helping

Pokie: i like puppies….
RP&M Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

Frank: I love to dress up! I love the connection to the audience! and it is a place where my mad mix-up of skills all come together and make sense.

RP&M Tell us about your home faire and why you love it so much?

Frank: The Lakewood Lions Renaissance Festival will be celebrating 37 years this year (2018) and will be my 20th!!! and have my run of the fair, normally I have one stage show a day, but have free will to do stuff as I see fit.

    It is a one weekend tent fair, but the show can not be beat! besides myself you get: full Jousting with The Knights of Valour, Magic with Daniel Greenwolf, Edmund the wandering poet, The sea Dogs, and more.

   food, and vendors as you would expect.

the local S.C.A. has a big part In the fair, and runs demonstrations all day.

RP&M How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

Frank:   Audience participation helps, the show is never quite the same, and sometimes someone will say/do something so off the wall that you keep it in the act.   I also do my best to learn new skills, or take classes. you never stop learning. latest was a master class in commedia dell'arte with Antonio Fava! ideas are everywhere!

RP&M Plug your website/fan page here:

Frank: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PokiePokethejongleur/

web www.pokie-poke.com

Pokie: the websight dont work

Frank: Why? How do you know?

Pokie: I fixed it thats wy

Frank: If you fixed it, why doesn't it work?

Pokie:   the answer is in the question…

Frank: Ok, Email is Frankdouglasjuggler@gmail.com

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A/N : Wow! So much fun! I actually know Daniel Greenwolf, he performed for our show way back when in 2008 or so in Norton, MA. It's so interesting to me that while I keep doing what I'm doing (promoting or performing or running shows), I find that folks know me from afar as well. I hope that I can keep continuing this blog and of course appreciate all the support that everyone has shown me.

We have our own show in 2 months time in Gloucester, MA so I might not take interviews until that show is over, but if you are interested in being featured, reach out to me and I'll see when I can squeeze you in <3.

Keep playing on!

Meet The Mintrel Rav'n - Indiana area

2018-04-22T05:05:00.000-07:00

What is the name of your act?

The Minstrel Rav’n
Where are you located or where is your home faire?

I live in Indiana and perform in Indiana, Michigan and Sparta NJ. This year I’m adding OH and TN to my list. As far as a home faire, I would consider Blackrock Medieval Faire to be home.
When did you start performing at Renaissance Faires?

My First Faire was Blackrock Medieval Faire at Olde World Village last July.
What inspired you to start performing?

My first trip to Bristol back in the late 90’s, I was hooked! I made several trips every year. 6-7 years ago The Dread Crew of Oddwood showed up at Bristol, that’s the moment I knew I wanted to be a Renaissance Faire Performer! (It just took a ‘few’ years for me to have the ability, material and direction to make the jump.)
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Follow your dreams!! Ignore the Naysayers! And most importantly, get to know the other performers and merchants. We’re all in this together. They have a veritable Dragon’s Hoard of knowledge! I have several fellow Performers that I ask advice of all the time. And in return… they get me as a friend… pretty Faire trade if you ask me.
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

I’ve been a 16 year LARP Bard (Live Action Role Play), I sing songs and tell stories about Pirates, Taverns and Elven Lasses, though not necessarily in that order… can you think of a better venue? Oh.. did I mention I was hooked from a trip to Bristol… because.. yeah True Story!
Tell us about your home faire and why you love it so much?

Blackrock Medieval Faire is located at Olde World Village in Augusta MI. They run different Faires and Festivals there all year. They gave me my first opportunity last year as a lane performer. The next weekend a Stage opened up and they asked me if I would play it. It’s a great little Faire, somewhere between the very small Faires and the larger ones like Bristol, Maryland, Texas etc. There are stages with back walls, a couple outdoor taverns, a permanent Joust List, a couple combat rings and a Jail. This year, I have three events at OWV, I look forward to many more years there!
Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

I travel from Faire to Faire when my schedule allows it. This year I also included a couple Cons, including Comic Con. [Comic Convention - gvds]
Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

While I think everyone would love to play the Big Faires, Small Faires are just as amazing. The Audience is the audience regardless of where you perform. I think the allure of the small Faire is you get to know everyone…the Staff, the Merchants, the other Performers and most importantly…the patrons. And really, where are we without the patrons and fans?
Plug your website/fan page here: https://www.facebook.com/TheMinstrelRavn/

________________

Thanks so much Minstrel Rav'n! Again, if you or your group or troupe would like to be featured on this page, please just reach out to us via Facebook and I will personally get back to you!

In the meantime, we are getting ready for our own show in July - www.abbadiamarefestival.com (Gloucester, MA) :)

The Mystique of Dragon Mystique - out of Canada!

2018-02-07T05:35:00.000-08:00

The name of my business is Dragon Mystique

My studio is located on a acreage west of Stony Plain, Alberta Canada

My mother, who is very talented artist gave me my first chunk of clay when I was very young. I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m infatuated with dragons and mythical creatures. I love details and it’s really hard to know when to stop when making a dragon.

I think if you are just starting out, you should really love what you do. There can be times when life gets in the way and hard to get motivated. For me a book, a song or a stormy day can inspire me to get going. My work changes all time, happy, sad or mad can show up in my work.

I love smaller venues. Everyone seems more comfortable and you seem get to know the other venders by the event.

I prefer a larger booth so I can this play my work without it being cluttered and safe from breakage. I use a lot of shelving, fabric and driftwood. A easy set up makes all the difference.

I love the food at these kind of venues but unless you have a partner helping, sometimes it’s hard to get away. I pack a lot of snacks and water.

The three top things that I would advise people when doing any kind venue that you carry a lot of change in your cash box. Carry a device for debit and credit. Most of all a positive attitude and great sense of humour.

My website is dragonmystique.com and our fan page on Facebook is https://www.facebook.com/Dragon-Mystique-293373640712027/

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A/N Wow! What fantastic artistry! Road trip anyone? If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured here on this blog, just reach out to me to let me know! Until next time...

On a side note, we are currently recruiting for craft vendors for our event at Abbadia Mare Renaissance Festival (abbadiamarefestival.com )

This event is located at a REAL Castle in Gloucester, MA. Dates will be July 21st and 22nd of 2018 from 11 am to 5 pm. If you are interested, please send us an e mail to abbadiamarefestival@gmail.com with what it is you do or sell! PM me if you have any questions about the event or the venue itself!

All Hail Stulto Mori out of Central Iowa

2018-01-28T04:22:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your act?

Stulto Mori
Where are you located or where is your home faire?

Central Iowa
What is it that you do?

Depending on what a faire needs/wants we can either present a royal court and encampment or a games and sports of the period encampment (we teach patrons different games that were played during the renaissance)
When did you start performing at Renaissance Faires?

Our group has been together for 7 years. We have performers that have 23 years of renaissance festival experience to people who just discovered their love for performing.
What inspired you to start performing ?

Visiting renaissance faires as patrons, and wanting to put smiles on other people’s faces, as smiles were put on ours.
Tell us about your home faire and why you love it so much?

We consider our home faire Central Missouri Renaissance Festival, even though we are 4 hours away. This faire allows us to be us! They want people to have fun, they maintain a very comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, while knowing how to give patrons what they want!
How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

Being mostly a performance based encampment group, we work a lot on our improvise and interacting skills. No one wants to talk to a boring character.
Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

We travel from faire to faire. We try to keep it to a 8 hr driving distance from home base
What is your top 3 things you advise to new people coming into this business?

1) Don’t be afraid to be a peacock! Be loud and noticeable 2) Don’t be afraid to try, even if you might fail, you will learn more from failing than you ever do from succeeding 3) Don’t forget to have fun, the patrons will surely have fun if you are
Plug your website/fan page here: www.facebook.com/StultoMori/orwww.stultomori.wordpress.com

A look inside The Mushrooms Door out of Canada

2018-01-21T03:25:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your business?

The Mushroom's Door

2. Where are you located ?

I am located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

3. What is it that you sell?

I sell one of a kind puppets and dolls

4. When did you start vending at Renaissance Faires?

I started over 15 years ago.

5. What inspired you to start vending?

I am an artist and have always dabbled in different mediums. Doll and puppet making became part of my world long ago when my children were small. I was looking for a way to generate income once my children grew older and just naturally fell into creating and selling at craft and art fairs.
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?
If it is your passion and brings you great joy, just dive in. When you have down time start creating and never be afraid to take the leap into your first craft fair or festival. If it's where your passion truly lies, it will take off if you devote some time to it
What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?
1. Please treat your artists with respect. We are here because we love what we do and without us, festivals and fairs would not be the same.
2. Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?
  
  The creatures I create are based in myth and legend, what better place to be than a renaissance fair. So many creative Individuals gathered in one place, it is truly magical.
3. How else do you promote your wares?
  
  I am on Facebook and Twitter. I try to update as often as I can, I also have a business page on Indie Made where I sell the bulk of my product.
4. Tell us about your home faire and why you love it so much?
  
  My favorite fair is a small venue located in my area, it is a weekly market held here in the summer. It is outdoors in the middle of a forest, there is always live music and the atmosphere is wonderful.
5. Do you have children if so, how do you handle that?
  
  My children are grown now but when they were younger they would help haul boxes and set up tables. My husband has been a wonderful support and would take them home when they got bored. I think it's very beneficial for children to experience creative energy and see the struggles of an artist, both good and bad. It prepares them for the reality of the art world if that is the path they choose when they are older.
6. How do you handle thefts/thieves?
  
  It has only happened once and I found it to be very upsetting. I don't think they realize the amount of energy, love and time that goes into a product. I can only hope that one day they realize that their actions hurt others.
7. How do you dress up your booth?
  
  I am always thinking of new ways to display my puppets and dolls, the product changes sometimes as well and you have to think about how it will all fit and show well. My favorite color is purple and I try to integrate that into my displays, it ties everything together. My puppets and dolls are all individuals so there are always new faces to discover at my booth.
8. Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?
  
  I tend to do fairs when my sales are a little slower. Summer time is a time when people are out and traveling so online sales slow down. It's important when you work in isolation that you go out and interact with actual humans and not just furry puppets.
9. Favorite Food at Faire? What is it?
  
  Mini donuts....not healthy at all but so delicious!
10. What are your top 3 things you can NOT be without at Faire?
  
  A healthy cash box with enough change in it, a supply of cold water and snacks, and a positive, cheerful attitude... Attitude is everything at a fair.
11. What is your top 3 things you advise to new people coming into this business?
  
  Be prepared for slow times and always have a backup plan, Don't become stagnant, keep creating and enjoying what you do. If you feel like you have no inspiration, get out into the forest or a place that centers you, watch some favorite fantasy movies or read good book. Finally, enjoy what you do, if the magic has died, re-invent yourself.
12. Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?
  
  I love smaller fairs, they have a very close-knit and warm atmosphere.
13. Plug your website/fan page here: https://www.facebook.com/pg/themushroomsdoor/photos/?ref=page_internal
14. https://twitter.com/MushroomsDoor
15. http://themusroomsdoor.indiemade.com/store
A/N : Wow! This is incredible craftsmanship! I love the puppets, they look so real! I agree that having a great attitude at faire is one of the most important things to know/learn.

I'd like to thank Mushrooms Door for letting us in (heh a pun) to her world (now I need to take a road trip and get my passport!). If you or your group or troupe would like to be featured on the blog, do let me know. We have 2 more coming in the next couple of weeks so stay tuned for that! - Gia

Read all about it! "The Diary of Mordred" - by Troy Depue

2018-01-15T08:27:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your book?

The Diary of Mordred

Cover art by David Hill
What is your book about?

Everyone knows the name King Arthur. Which version of Arthurian legend or how deep into the legends you know, is a big question. Mordred is the bastard son of King Arthur, of whom Arthur tried to kill, along with every other baby born on that day. Why? Because Arthur had laid with his own half sister, Morgan Le Fey. In this particular iteration of the persona of Morgan Le Fey and Morgause and Morgana are one in the same. Mordred was an outcast. A bastard, and an inbred. These were not his fault, of course, but nonetheless caused great pains. When Arthur, advancing in age, decided to journey north for another war, Mordred believed his father would not be coming back, and therefore was his one an only opportunity to take the throne. We start the book with Mordred in a jail cell after a battle with Arthur. He is given no food, only water to sustain him and prolong the torture. To help pass the time, he writes a diary, aimed towards his mother mainly. The book is written in Elizabethan and from a first person account as Mordred explains his side of the story as never told before. A tale of tragedy, power, greed, lust, love, redemption and acceptance, it is a book intended for mature audiences.

Were Renaissance Festivals or Faires an inspiration to you to start this book?

While not an inspiration for this work, Four Winds Faire, a faire of the past now, did help get me back on the horse in both a figurative and literal sense. You see, I trained at Four Winds to be a full contact jousting knight. To do so, I was forced to sell my ice hockey gear in order to begin to purchase jousting approved armor. Thus, I reinvigorated myself into the medieval era that I have always been enthralled with.

Photo credit Amy Depue
What was your inspiration for the book?

Well, to be honest, there are so many versions of the King Arthur legend. All of which are just that, legends. The most notable in the historical literary side is Sir Thomas Mallory's version, which was the largest inspiration that I drew from to create my characters. However, I used bits and pieces from many versions to meld together what I felt was an accurate depiction of a character that, while I believe is pivotal (let's face it, he killed the king...) he is most often a very small background character.
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

I did choose to use CreateSpace, which is owned by Amazon. I would recommend using them or Amazon publishing. The experience I have had has been great so far. I do believe the days of the big publishing houses are starting to fade, so why not take advantage of a service that is no to low cost to get your work out there? The other advice I would have is to just write. Have an idea of what you want to write about, but don't fret too much over your outlines and such. Let the creative side of you take over and see where it leads you. You will be surprised. If you fret too much about your outline, you can severely limit your creativity in your works.
Do you think Renaissance Re-enactors will enjoy your book?

I do believe that this topic is one that all Rennies will enjoy, as the original Le Morte de Arthur was written in the Renaissance era, pertaining to the very rich and over exaggerated self image knights had of themselves. This book, however, shows that there is always a darker side. The great King Arthur had a dark side, and to this day not many talk about it.
How else do you promote your book?

The best promotion I have right now is doing shows for local libraries. I speak on many medieval topics, which can be found on my website https://medievalfactsexaminer.weebly.com/including some more popular people during the medieval era, discussing armor, weapons, jesters and so forth. I have been a part of the Arlington Texas Medieval Arts Festival for six years running, and will be again this year. I also use social media to promote. I produced a short YouTube video to play like an ad. But, the great thing about CreateSpace being with Amazon, my book is on every Amazon website. Now, through some sales and marketing, I am on Barnes and Noble, Half Price Books, and more. I have found my book for sale on websites I had never even heard of.
Tell us about some of the characters of the book? What made you write about them?

Well, obviously Mordred. We have discussed how I see him in the previous questions. He is the star, and it is written from a first person account, as if he is taking pen to paper, in a diary format. He speaks about his mother, Morgana. In a lot of the legends, Morgan Le Fey and Morgause are two separate people. However, I feel that the legends fit better if they are one in the same. Perhaps a nickname after the affair with Arthur became public knowledge she became Morgan Le Fey. She is the half sister of Arthur and a cruel, cruel mother to Mordred. Of course, we have the disloyal Lancelot, whom Mordred hates. He hates Lancelot for his betrayal, but mostly because Mordred also loved Guinevere. Merlin may or may not have a part to play in this as well...
What are you working on next for another book?

A two part question. For my next book, I am working on a non-fiction book about Joan of Arc. In this, I will try to focus on how she was a great symbol, but actually a poor military leader. I will not interject any personal feelings about her religious beliefs, as I believe that that is irrelevant so long as you know that she believed them, and so did those that followed her, and that her beliefs were then twisted in the most perverse ways to be used against her.

As for my next show, I have a full calendar of events on my website below.

Plug your website/fan page here:

https://medievalfactsexaminer.weebly.com/

The photograph of Troy at the Arlington Medieval Arts Festival 2017 was taken by Tony Jantz

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A/N Thanks to Troy for his interview and his support of this page! If you or your group/troupe would like to be featured on this blog, please just send me a message and I'll send you the form to fill out.

Armoured Wolf Productions out of Alaska!

2018-01-07T04:02:00.001-08:00

What is your business name?

Our name is Armoured Wolf Productions

Where are you located and where is your home faire/festival?

We are located in Anchorage Alaska and our home Renaissance Fair is the 3 Barons Renaissance Faire here in Anchorage (Alaska). It is held the first 2 weekends of June every year.

What is it that you sell?

We create handmade unique Leather Goods, Chainmaille, Viking Knit and Metal work.

What got you started in this business?

We started selling at fairs, cons and events on a larger scale after a decision to leave our daytime job and pursue our real passion. That was March of 2013. It had only been a side job/hobby until that point. Doing small shows, our Renaissance Fair and other select local events.

Why Renaissance Faires as a venue?

Renaissance Fairs and festivals seem to be where we belong. People seem to really appreciate our work and passion. They like that we are different from most other vendors selling wares out of the same materials. Our products also fit in well with different historic time periods. We do everything by hand and can customize for people needing something specific. We love the environment and people at the events. Doesn't really seem like work when your around great people, amazing garb, and other incredible artists.

How else do you promote your business?

We promote our business in several ways. We have an Etsy page Armouredwolf.etsy.com, Facebook page, www.facebook.com/armouredwolf, Events, Cons, Fairs, and Festivals. We wear some of our products on a daily basis and talk about them if people ask. I always have business cards on me. Friends and customers also give out our cards and info. I also put a business card in every order and ask for feedback. We have a lifetime warranty on our products so I always tell customers to keep the business card for warranty purposes or if they ever need something else.

Note from the vendor: Pic below is our custom leather mugs. You can have hot in them up to 160 Celsius. So around 370 degrees F. I have hot coffee and tea in mine. They also can hold cold beverages as cold as you like. I hand my mug right to the barista and she makes my latte right in it. One of the coolest things we make.

Do you have children and how do you handle that at an event?

I have 3 kids. They are 19, almost 21, and 26. They grew up around us working with our hands and running a business in one way or another. They would be in garb and taught from a young age what things were and how to talk to people. They did great! Now the 19yr old is a volunteer for us and works events and travels with us to events. We have taught her how to make some of the goods. This comes in handy if we are super busy she can help out that way too. The others will work the booth when needed also. The help is awesome.

Do you dress up your booth differently or how do you dress up your booth?

Our booth is completely decorated like a old time merchant. Everything is in chests and crates. Some looking like they were turned on the side and products are tumbling out. I made all of our table covers out of burlap. We also use a lot of fishing net for hanging things and help create the look. We dress up in garb at almost every event we vend at. Piratical mostly and other garb that is needed for different time periods or themes. It's one of my favorite parts. It helps the whole feel of the booth come together and give everyone a great experience when in the booth.

Do you travel to other events or do you have one home faire?

We do have to travel to fairs and other events. Our fair is only 2 weekends a year and this is our full time job. We live in Alaska and have traveled as far as New Jersey before. Always willing to go where we might be liked or needed as long as we can make the logistics work.

List your fan page or websites here:

Our contact info and pages are;

www.facebook.com/armouredwolf

Armouredwolf.etsy.com

Armouredwolf@gmail.com

A/N Wow! I thought it was cold here in Massachusetts! This is the first vendor I've interviewed out of Alaska! Happy New Year everyone! If your group/troupe/merchant/vendor or faire would like to be featured on this blog, just send us a message! - Gia

Wondering about the Wondering Bard? Here are your answers!

2017-12-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

1.) What is the name of your act?

I’ve performed for a number of years now as “The Wondering Bard” - which I thought was a clever pun. Thus my intro included the phrase, “I bring you songs of wonder... and songs that might just make you wonder!”

However, I soon learned that it’s only a clever pun when people actually REALIZE that it’s a pun! Some “corrected” my spelling, assuming it was meant to be “wandering”. Others never noticed it at all - and some actually spelled it right while reading it wrong. Which made for some interesting conversations and explanations!

So, going forward into next season, I’ll be performing just as Mike Phoenix alias “Phoenix The Bard”. I’d initially avoided that because the word “Phoenix” seems a bit overused in the Renaissance Faire circuit, but geez heck, it IS my legal name... so I think I’ve got dibs here!

However, in memory of the clever pun that never quite worked, I’ll probably title my upcoming CD something like “Songs From A Wondering (Sic) Bard”... with an explanatory footnote, of course. ;)

Photo credit - Angela Cook

2.) Where are you located or where is your home faire?

I’m currently in Somersworth, NH, just 43 minutes away from the New Hampshire Renaissance Faire in Kingston (NH). I also have a warm spot in my heart for Abbadia Mare and Silver Kingdom, since I got my start there.

3.) What is it that you do?

I sing, play guitar (and occasionally other instruments), and lead the audience into singing, teaching the music as I go along. Probably about half of any set of mine is made up of “performance pieces” - songs to listen to - and the other half is participation, tunes for joining in.

I especially like finding lesser-known songs that can either hold listeners spellbound or incite a belly-laugh. My current favorite is the old Scots tune “There’s Nae Luck Aboot The Hoose",which wins for pure brisk unintelligibly.

As a singer-songwriter I also include some of my own pieces, and I love best when someone remembers me from last year, or from another faire, and eagerly asks for a song of mine: “Do that one you wrote!” (Point for the Bard!)

4.) When did you start performing at Renaissance Faires?

I’ve been performing at Faires for about six years now, first as a tenor vocalist and music arranger with the a Capella/madrigal group Myschyffe Managed, and later also as a solo artist.

This Fall I bid a fond farewell to the group, and going forward I’m looking to expand my solo work into more venues. (So if you know of anyplace that could use a good bard, let me know!)

5.) What inspired you to start performing?

Start? The question is usually how to get me to STOP!

I’ve always been a music-maker. My artistic activities (paid and unpaid) have included teaching, performing, composing, and directing vocal groups. I’ve done a little of everything, and a lot of some things, from drum circle facilitation to complex SATB arranging.

I also have a sense of the dramatic (translation: I’m a terrible ham). I did live storytelling for several years as a member of the Merrimack Valley Storytellers’ Guild, and loved it. But I always come back to music... and here I am again.

My solo run started because - well, let’s just say that my mind is a trap for obscure songs, so every time I was at a Faire, my brain would come up with another entry for the growing mental list of “And WHY is no one doing that song??” Eventually that started turning into, “Well, geesh, why don’t I just get up there and do that song... along with all the others on my list?” So I thought I’d give it a shot.

Photo credit - Angela Cook

6.) Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

I’ve always had a love for what I think of as “serious silliness” - the kind of playfulness that grownups do best, where you really throw yourself into a fantasy to the point where it becomes a creative work, a kind of art. Renaissance Faires are one manifestation of that. And in the course of that creative work, there’s such an openness and welcoming for all kinds of not-quite-mainstream stuff... whether it’s tattoos and piercings, or gender-bending, or whatever. I love that you can walk down the lanes of a Faire and see a full-grown man in a fairy costume and a woman in Armour on her.

Renaissance Faires aren’t so much medieval re-enactment as they are places where the romance of the past - not just the historical past, but also our personal pasts, our childhoods and young dreams - can come out and play. They’re a way to reclaim a part of ourselves that most people put away in a box and never revisit. There’s a beauty in that, and also an important learning experience that we carry forward into our “mundane” lives. It’s a very real and deep sense of community that is fostered as we build these crazy fantasies together, out of stress and sweat and love and dedication and insanity (the good kind).

Hmmm, did I just say that being Rennies makes us better people? Well, if the Renfolk I know are any indication... I think that might just be accurate!

7.) How else do you promote your wares/business/act? Plug your website/fan page here.

Up to now I’ve mostly relied on word of mouth and people I know; now I’m actually sitting down and thinking out a long-term promotional strategy. I’m building a website, and in the meantime I’ve just put up a new Facebook artist page, which you can find at “fb.me/MikePhoenixTheBard” - Likes are appreciated! Once the CD is finished that’ll give me another tool, allowing me to send out samples of my work along with any inquiries about performer spots. And from there, I guess I’ll keep experimenting and see what works best!

8.) How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

I add, drop, and rotate songs every season, though a few stay in the repertoire just because they’re favorites - if I didn’t play them voluntarily, someone would ask for them. For the coming season I’m working on including some bits of musical storytelling, which is something I used to do years back, but have never included in my Faire repertoire.

9.) Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

So far I’ve done three or four faires semi-regularly, but haven’t really made the push to put myself “out there” to all of the available opportunities; it was just too complicated trying to balance a solo schedule with the demands of group work. Now I’d like to branch out, travel more and do more shows around the New England area.

10.) Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

I’ve never yet done a “big” faire (as in the large month-plus-long commercial ones). I’d like to see what it’s like sometime - and I’m sure it’ll eventually be a needful career move if I were to decide I wanted to do this full-time.

But right now I’m more interested in building a following on the small-faire circuit. I like the fellowship and family-feeling of the little events, and I like the folks who create and run them. I like the fact that so many of them donate a percentage of their proceeds to deserving charities. Small-Faire organizers, performers, and volunteers are some of the nicest crazy people I know... and yes, that actually IS a compliment!

Photo credit Michael Meissner

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A/N - I actually have known Mike for quite a long time now and I have to say he's one of the singers I make sure I sneak out of my duties to go see. Also, the last photo is an event we run in July called Abbadia Mare and yes, that's me in the floppy straw hat :).
This also might be my last post for this year. I can't thank you all enough for your continued support of my page, my blog and of course this community!
I wish you all a lovely holiday whatever it is that you celebrate and we'll hopefully have more interviews coming for 2018!

Haires Magical Wears - Mid Michigan area

2017-12-10T04:01:00.000-08:00

What is the name of your merchant booth/business?

Haires Magical Wears.
Where are you located

Our home faire is mid Michigan enchanted forest not so close to our home but we do consider the Indiana Renaissance faire a close second home.
What is it that you sell?

Well we sell ears. Fantasy ears made out of wire beads and castings of all kinds. The Kinds include : fairy, elf, steampunk, pirate, viking, Celtic, nature and nautical creatures like mermaids. We also sell sent defusing aroma bottles along with fairy bottles
When did you start vending at Renaissance Faires?

We are new to this side of fairs for years we have traveled the carnival circuit are family has done that for over 90 years selling food to all but with the decline in attendance we have searched out other means of gypsy life. I in have always been a history buff and love fantasy and lore of the middle ages so may of this year was our first faire
What inspired you to start vending?

Life in general has become hard are fairs and festivals have become more of a chore and the money is not theirs. I am also an EMT when we are home for the season and that to you really can't make a good living on. So i needed an escape away from the doom and gloom of life where my art was looked at as beautiful and where my strangeness was normal
What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Stay the course Stay true to your art if you are to make money it will come.
What would you say nicely to a promoter or producer of a faire/festival?

Take into account how your vendors give you feedback and advice
Why Renaissance Faires/Festivals as a venue?

Customers and vendors are different non judgemental and friendly curious and fun to be around like family
How else do you promote your wares?

word of mouth - Facebook etc.
Do you have children if so, how do you handle that?

Our children - all 3 of them are part of us they travel and work in are both and also learn about life.
How do you handle thefts?

We try to have enough eyes out but we have locking showcases (displays - RPM)
How do you dress up your booth ?

I use what is around me from the Earth, but I also use furs and flowers
Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

This year we did 4 faires: 3 in Indiana and one in Michigan
Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

A small faire has a better community and a better chance of making money due to the fact that their are less non commercial and real art

Plug your website/fan page here:

https:www.facebook.com/Hairesmagicalwears/ buy sell page group on Facebook Renaissance garb/ fantasy ear cuffs buy Hairesmagicalwears Etsy:shop https://www.etsy.com/shop/HAIRESMAGICALWEARS?REF=seller-platform-mcnav

And now for something a little different - "Midnight on the Borough" Movie with Actress Audrey L'Ebrellec

2017-12-02T03:44:00.000-08:00

A/N - this post is a little different than what I usually post and I thought that to spice up this blog and get more views, I'd go a little bit further and find other types of Acting or more modern themes. This is a pretty famous actress in London/Paris area and she was kind enough to give me an interview.

1. What is the name of your show?

It is a feature film called “Midnight on the Borough”.

Photo credit - Mitchel Waite

3. Where are you located or where is the show supposed to be located?

The film is set in London in NYE.

5. What is your show about?

“Midnight on the Borough” is a romantic comedy about two strangers meeting in London on NYE after being dumped and deciding to make the most of the evening together. It’s a romantic comedy with some dark twists exploring themes as loneliness, relationship between men and women, the impact of your professional life over your private.

8. What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Be passionate about what you’re doing, make genuine relations and keep living. You can’t do this profession if you cut yourself from your friends, your family, things you like. Acting is a very tough profession and sometimes people are just running after fame and fortune. I think acting is about sharing, bring ing dreams alive and telling an important story to an audience.

9. What is your audience?

Everyone with a taste for romantic comedies and who loves London would enjoy it.

11. Tell us about your character in the film?

I play Corinne, a neurotic French photographer, who’s been dumped by her boyfriend on NYE. Corinne is a young woman spending her life traveling around the world. She wants to appear as this strong, independent woman but in fact she is quite vulnerable and always missing opportunities to find happiness and stability in her life.

Photo credit - Mitchel Waite

14. What are you working on next for another show?

I’m working on a personal project with another actor, Yusuf Bhaimia.

We want to develop a mini series about an organization of assassins in London. We are currently writing the first episode and looking in discussion with a production team. And we hope starting filming beginning 2018.

15. What have you always wanted to do, but haven't done yet? Why?

Traveling all around the world. I just didn’t find the time to do it but now I am really motivated to travel more. I would love to go to Russia and New-Zealand.

16. Plug your website here

Midnight on the Borough - https://www.gandtpictures.com/minuit-sur-le-borough

Midnight on the Borough Kickstarter Campaign - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/391302443/midnight-on-the-borough-film-set-during-new-years

Audrey L’Ebrellec website - https://www.audreylebrellec.com/

Photo credit - Mitchel Waite

Get enchanted with Enchanted Circle - out of CA

2017-11-18T03:42:00.000-08:00

What is it that you create?

I make Victorian, Gothic, and Steampunk Jewelry with “Copper Enameled Stones”. The stones are pieces of 18 gauge copper that I sift on multiple layers of powdered colored (Vitreous) glass. I add small chunks of glass on the top and fire the copper with a torch. When melted I swirl the glass with a tool which creates the designs in the stones. The craft is Copper Enameling, and the technique is Scrolling.

What is the name of your business and where are you located?

Enchanted Circle, and Placerville, California.

When did you start creating your wares?

I learned how to Enamel in a shop class in high school in the late 60s. I have been enameling off and on since then.

Why this kind of jewelry?

I love all the Renaissance Era! The Victorian Era had such feminine jewelry is why I am drawn there, the Gothic and Steampunk are such fun!

How else do you promote your wares?

On Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and Etsy.

Tell us about your local sales events?

I do local events all year long, starting with Earth Day until December Christmas Shows. I have a farmers market from June until the end of September. Then 5 weeks at Apple Hill, October into November.

How do you dress up your booth?

I use various Victorian Inspired props, and as all my events are done in locations that are bordering a National Forest of Christmas Trees, I use a lot of Country Displays as well.

Do you travel from event to event or do you just have one event that you are a steady at?

I travel all over El Dorado County.

Advice to new people coming into this business?

It has to be your passion. Your customer is the most important thing in your life, when they are stopped at your booth or purchase from you on line. Do the very best that you can do, with what you have at the time.

What is your top 3 things you cannot be without at a venue?

Water, a chair and my smart phone.

Plug your website/fan page here:

www.enchantedcircle1234.etsy.com

Get Armed with Cross Cannons!

2017-10-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

1. What is the name of your act?

The act is called Crossed Cannons. We were going to call ourselves Loose Cannons, but a few friends pointed out to us that the name was taken multiple times over. One friend suggested we call ourselves The Booze Cannons. We did call ourselves that for one show, later I got an e-mail from a Faire director who said he wouldn’t hire us with that name, (because it wasn’t family friendly) so we changed it one last time to Crossed Cannons. We figured, well Jolly Rogers have Skulls and Bones, or Skulls and Crossed Swords, so we figured, LET’S GO BIG!

2.What is it that you do?

We are a Pirate/Celtic Duo playing Celtic Tunes, Sea Shanties and Pirate Music traditional and original. We are also a part time trio when our fiddle player is available. Our band is Angus McHugh on Vocals, Guitar, and Percussion, Howlin Mad Jack Howland on Vocals and Percussion and when she can join us Rhee McKraken on fiddle and vocals.

3. When did you start performing or vending at Renaissance Faires?

I started performing at Renaissance Festivals in 2008 under my real name (Matt Hughes) with a 4 piece Celtic band. After we split, I started working on a Pirate duo called Off Keel. We were performing at Festivals for 5 years or so when my partner had a lot of personal problems come up. We went our separate ways. Howlin Mad Jack Howland is an old friend from the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival and he wanted to get on the road as a performer. We started rehearsing and debuted at the Enchanted Lakes Renaissance Faire in 2016.

4. What inspired you to start performing?

My dream as a kid was to play heavy metal music and tour the world. I worked with a few friends in High School, but that all came to an end. I started listening to Irish music in 1994 or so and fell in love with it. Years later I was introduced to a Pittsburgh band called The Wild Geese Band. They had taken the music to another level, and from there, I started learning tunes on the guitar around 2005. I have always enjoyed performing live. Renaissance Faires started happening for me in 2008. I had visited a few times before performing at Pittsburgh. I loved it! I’ve always enjoyed history, and medieval/renaissance times are a favorite of mine! So, I am still living that dream, just made it a little smaller!

5. What would you say to someone just starting out in this business?

Be patient. More often than not, you aren’t going to be wowing crowds on stage at a big festival. Hone your act, do the one weekend Faires. Find the new Festivals, grow with them. Then start sending your information to a bigger show. Lastly, make sure you get everything you need for a good press kit. Photos, videos of your show, or anything else that you need that is centered on your act. Having stage presence is a big key, you have to be able to engage your audience.

6. How else do you promote your act?

Social media is a big thing for promotion. I will post the goings on of the Cannons and my other projects on Facebook. I will post to every Renaissance Festival group I belong to. At show, I will walk through the lanes and engage people, tell them about our show, what time we are performing and where, and Invite them to come see the show. A lot of the time , they will say they will be there. And of course hawking our show from stage just before we are starting.

7. How do you create a new show for folks that may have seen your show?

For us, every show is different, that’s the advantage of being a musician. We can play enough songs that our shows vary. Oddly enough, we keep telling the same 5 jokes tho. People love them, they laugh. We actually have a deal, if the audience laughs, we get to keep telling the joke. We haven’t retired a joke yet!

8. Do you travel from faire to faire or do you just have one faire that you are a steady at?

We travel from Faire to Faire. Usually, I don’t go too far from home. 10 hour drive is the maximum for a show thus far. I do this because I enjoy it. I love playing music, I love being on stage, but when the show is over, it’s time to go home and do my day job. If I ever hit the power ball, I’d buy an RV and just go on the road and play at any festival that would let me through the front gate. Reality, unfortunately, won’t let me do that. So, I pick and choose my shows. The nice thing is, there are a lot of shows close to me!

9. Would you consider a small faire vs a larger faire and why?

I love both, I would never turn down a Faire because it is just getting started. Nor would I turn down an established Faire that is more intimate. There’s magic to the Renaissance Festivals, they are an escape from the every day. So, whether the Faire is large or small, we are a part of that escape for the patrons!

10. Plug your website/fan page here:

Official Web Site www.matthughesmusic.com

Matt Hughes and Various projects music page - www.reverbnation.com/matthughesmusic

Crossed Cannons specific - www.reverbnation.com/thecrossedcannons

Facebook - Crossed Cannons, https://www.facebook.com/crossedcannons/?ref=br_rs Angus McHugh, Scottish Pirate, Howlin Mad Jack Howland