Entertainment 2012

Stage Shows

Al Seraphim Mora Featuring John Bilezikjian
Master Oudist, composer, singer, and entertainer John Bilezikjain is proud to join Al Seraphim Mora at the Southern California Renaissance Pleasure to celebrate 50 years of Middle Eastern and Near Eastern music and dance. Mr. Bilezikjain will be performing Armenian, Turkish, Persian, and Arabian song selections from his vast catalog of recordings. As he plays Al Seraphim Mora’s world-renowned belly dancers and folkloric performers will delight you with their soft yet hypnotic movements. They invite you to have a seat and join them as they take you on a journey through the Middle East!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/seraphimmora

Baba Ku (Saturdays Only)

Baba Ku Middle Eastern Market Ensemble serves up a tasty blend of traditional folk music from Arabia, Persia, Turkey, Andalusia and beyond the Spice Road.  Performing with authentic instruments that date from before the Renaissance, their exotic sounds and hypnotic dance will sweep you away to distant lands where poets found solace and inspiration in moonlit rose gardens.

Brandon Scott - The Wizard of Wonder

The Wizard of Wonder will delight you with his Storytelling Magic. Learn your own exciting illusions at the Wonder School of Magic! www.storywizards.com

William Barrett, Jeffrey (Gluckson) Briar and Sandey Grinn, collectively known as Cock and Feathers began working together at the Southern Renaissance Pleasure Faire in Agoura in 1970.  Full of Magical Mummery Madness, this troupe of multi-talented performers have become legendary amongst participants and patrons alike, captivating the imaginations of countless audience members with wacky physical comedy, and neo-vaudevillian schtick.  Cock and Feathers first started as a recorder group but quickly becoming mimes when they heard they could stay overnight if they wore white face. The next year they took a revolutionary step and added words to their mime show. The following year (1972) they came up with a plot for that show (sort of) and the Wizard Show was born.

The Battle of the Two Wizards effortlessly combines an untiring array of endless alliterations, dizzying ridicules,and unabashed bawdiness all climaxing with an unfathomable slow motion fight near the end to create an epic tale of good, evil and the love of a good sheep. Come celebrate the mythical Cock and Feathers for the 40th anniversary of this show... God help us all!!

The Frenchies... "You look Merveilleux"

Stranded in England for what is the worst trip abroad ever, this entourage of French fashionistas will let you know exactly what's wrong with you. From your hair to your shoes, to your choice of food or companion - they are on a mission to bring culture and class to the otherwise dreary town of Port Deptford. They are also hoping to do something about that smell… After all their motto is "When in England - make it France!"

Hamlet by the Original Cast of the Reduced Shakespeare Company (April 21/22 ONLY) NEW

Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield will make a rare public appearance together performing “Hamlet, the Tragedy of the Prince of Denmark” at the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire in Irwindale, California on April 21-22 in honor of the Faire’s 50th Anniversary. Coincidentally, it will mark the 30th anniversary of the debut of the famed half-hour “Hamlet” at the Faire, and 20 years since Singer and Winfield have performed it. They’ll be joined by seasoned comic/heartthrob Matt Rippy in the roles originally created by Adam Long, who resides in London.
“I used to wear a fake grey beard when I played Polonius, but I won’t need to now,” quipped Singer, now 52 and a freelance writer, artist, and former Disney Imagineer. The comic adaptation of “Hamlet” was woven into their infamous theater- piece “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged),” which became a worldwide phenomenon after its 1987 debut. When approached about the revival, Winfield, who now maintains dual careers as an Emmy-award winning producer and an acclaimed novelist, said, "Sure, why not? I'm actually ten years younger than I was twenty years ago." (Winfield often gets confused these days.) "Besides, I have a new book to shill."

Herencia Flamenca NEW

Join Paco and Yolanda Arroyo in the fiery passion of Flamenco! With over 30 years of performing with some of the greatest artists in the flamenco world, this internationally celebrated couple and their troupe will have you clapping and stomping along to a performance of a lifetime!

Kondor Brothers

The Brothers are back and bigger than ever! No, Literally. This hilarious and accomplished young brother duo will juggle, balance and flip their way into your hearts.

Kung Fu Heroes NEW

Founded in early 2010, the Kung Fu Heroes is an elite martial arts team hailing from the United States. The team has been featured on television, film and stage for the likes of Tina Turner, Jackie Chan, King Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia, America's Got Talent, Cirque du Soleil, and more. Their mission is to unite like-minded individuals seeking to become "Heroes" and positive role models in their local and worldwide communities. Beyond martial arts, religions, race, cultural or national boundaries, and despite adversity and circumstance, we all hold the power within ourselves to be someone's inspiration, someone's idol and someone's hero. For more information join them on their Facebook!

Lan Sattha Thai Dance (April 29, May 5/6, 12/13, 19/20 ONLY)

Returning to the Renaissance Pleasure Faire by popular request, Lan Sattha Thai Dance group presents beautiful traditional dances from the Siamese Kingdom as well as a special story for the 50th anniversary of the faire entitled The Legend of Nop Buri Sri Nakorn Chiang Mai. Don't miss this special tale!

The London Broil Show (April 7/8 & 14/15 ONLY)

A charming and innovative mix of free-flow comedy and fantastic team juggling. Duncan Pace, Matt Connolly and Louie Skaradek created the show as teenagers and have performed thousands of shows together nationwide since 1999. Wit and improvisations fly fast between these longtime friends amidst complex and visually stunning club juggling. A fan of danger? Fret not! Besides throwing Machetes, they've invented the pristine and elegant "Blades of Fury" and the clumsy and barbaric "Scary Board". One London Broil Show is never enough, so come back to their last show of the day to see the "Giant Sapphire Spheres" and get a chance to suggest a trick they've never tried before. www.TheLondonBroilShow.com

The Magnificent Humble Boys

Don't miss this hysterical comedy duo- The Magnificent Humble Boys. They have won awards in three continents for their wild physical humor and audience interaction.  Whether they are dancing and singing, doing acrobatics, or creating an entire circus before your eyes, they will have the whole family roaring with laughter.

Mark Lewis (May 12/13 ONLY) NEW

Mark Lewis is first and foremost a storyteller. His goal is to re-awaken the art of storytelling in the world of today and to re-introduce this world to its imagination. Mark is a master of "Old Wave Special Effects". He has won two Emmy awards for his show Word Pictures from WTTW in Chicago and a guest spot on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has performed all across the United States and the British Isles. He is also an actor and has been a featured performer on the TBS series Leverage, and on the pilot of the NBC series Grimm.
Mark is a published author with three books to his credit and is the founding director of Laughing Moon Productions - a Creative Consultation Business whose clients include MCA/Universal and Disney Imagineering.
He sings, composes music and plays the recorder. He is also an Art Director for film and television and has spent a year in the Concepts Division for a major toy manufacturer. Mark Lewis believes in the Imagination!

Maxx Empire Joust NEW

The grandest jousting knight in all of England has agreed to hold a Pas D’Armes for Her Majesty’s visit in hopes of becoming her champion. Sir Maxmillian, the famously self-enamored Earl of Braden, will hold the field against select and elite challengers, testing their mettle in spectacular tests of equestrian skill and noble bone crunching jousts of honor. Who will dare to compete? Will arrogance and might take the day? Can skill and speed or even grace and beauty win Her Majesty’s favor? Or will deceit and anger overpower the best laid plans and the jousts become a fast-paced deadly duel of cold steel and splintering lances… bear witness and thrill along with the Maxx Empire Joust.

The Mayor's Show NEW

What could be worse then a slightly drunk Harbor Master, a greedy Mayor, and self-righteous Alderman? Promising one of them a Dukedom! Come see Lady Phoebe help the People of Port Deptford decide who shall be the nominee to go before the Queen. Laughter and mayhem are more of a guarantee than a nomination!

The Phoole Skoole of Wonderful Knowledges

(April 27/28/29 ONLY) NEW

Topics range willy-nilly from True Lives of Court Fools, the Contra-Scruff Maneuver and the Circumstances Surrounding Its Learning (including the TRUE BUT UNBELIEVABLE Daring Escapade of Captain Frobisher and the Natives of the Frozen North, Sir Francis Drake's Cunning Use of Logic, and a Machine Capable of Scruffing a Polar Bear, all of which Must Be Heard to Be Believed), and, of course, How to Say "Bad Monkey" in 150 Different Languages, with Illustrative Anecdotes.

photo: Ivan Phillips

The Queen's Show NEW

Come join us at three of the clock on our main stage as the sycophantic, silly Lord Peppermill and our pompous Lord Mayor try to curry favor from the lovely young Queen Elizabeth. See all of the pageantry and wonder of a lavish celebratory gift and show to her Majesty go completely awry! The only one to be knighted here is your laughter!

Sakuntala NEW

Sakuntala has been gracing stages most of her life as a dancer and a musician. She is a master in Bharata Natyam, the classical dance of Tamil Nadu. Come watch her as she weaves her spell and transports you to the continent of India and the island of Sri Lanka.

Sky Kings Falconry (April 28/29, May 5/6, 12/13, 19/20 ONLY) NEW

Sky Kings presents a free flying falconry and birds of prey demonstration featuring hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures.  This amazing show takes place ABOVE the audience! Come experience the 5000 year old "Sport of Kings" while learning about majestic raptors in an excitement filled and family friendly presentation.  Sky Kings is brought to you by Wildlife Revealed, a 501-c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the education and preservation of our planet's wildlife.

Visit their website!

Suspended Reality  (April 14/15 & 21/22)

Look to the sky and let your imagination soar with Suspended Reality aerial dance troupe. Watch as they take flight, performing graceful and daring acrobatic dances high in the air with featured solo performances on hoop and tissu as well as a dramatic doubles routine. A show where love is in the air and romance is taken to new heights!

Tupua NEW

This award winning show takes you on a journey through the isles of Exciting Samoa,  Magical Aotearoa , and Exotic Tahiti.  The cast will leave you mesmerized with their beautiful complex traditional Polynesian dances, rituals and hypnotic drumming. Catch a glimpse of their dance!

The Wit of Will NEW

Come one! Come All! See Master William Shakespeare in the flesh delivering action packed high energy one man shows for your viewing enjoyment! Come and join in the laugh a minute adventure that just might get you to WANT to read his plays!! Again and again!

Music

Ad Hoc Consort

Throughout the shire you can hear the dulcet tones of our period instruments: recorders, krumhorns, sackbuts & others. Come experience the true sounds of the English Renaissance!

Brigid’s Daughters

These two British sisters are fascinated by the beauty and romance of the madrigals and love songs they sing from Spain, Italy, France, and their English homeland. They long to roam and explore the world and find the kind of love of which they sing. Their angelic voices have been known to capture hearts and delight children of all ages. Perhaps this will help them find a love to whisk them away… Is it you?

photo: Bob Leggett

Circa Paleo

Experience a unique musical journey into folk dance tunes from around the world.  Blending energetic strings and earthy percussion, Circa Paleo brings new life to ancient melodies and rhythms that are sure to get your body moving. 

Circa Paleo's music is primarily harvested from the dance tunes of cultures throughout time and distance along with some earthy interpretations of modern melodies.  Audiences are compelled to join the groove as listeners of these same rhythms have been for ages. Combining modern musical clarity with traditional roots, Circa Paleo creates a musical celebration and festive atmosphere that few can resist.

The Crimson Pirates (April 21/22 ONLY) NEW

The Crimson Pirates perform a wide variety of maritime, celtic and traditional folk music. Long known for their vocal harmonies, they have gained recognition for their instrumental arrangements as well – utilizing mandolin, concertina, ukele, pennywhistle, djembe, doumbek and bodhran. Let them entertain you with songs of lost ships, lost love... and spilt beer!

Owain Phyfe

Vocalist, instrumentalist, and composer, almost always performs with an unusual guitar tucked under his arm, the chitarra battente, often called the "renaissance guitar".

Serenata

From the Courts of the Medici to the Lavender fields of Provençe. Serenata revives the gorgeous court music of the Italian Renaissance, the folk music of Eastern Europe, and the ballads of Shakespeare's England. Introducing this timeless music to new audiences who will fall in love with their enticing rhythms and seductive voices.
The sounds of the chitarra and the violino swirl around as you become swept up in a wave of romance. Your heart dances to the rhythm of the tambourine and you find yourself unable to resist the spell of a tarantella. The multi-award winning performers of Serenata conjure the magic of times past with their luscious music.
Website: www.bellaserenata.com
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Serenata/100076280802?ref=ts
Twitter: @LaBellaSerenata
Reverbnation profile: www.reverbnation.com/serenata

The Sultry Spanish Courtesan NEW

From the mystical Andes to the splendor of modern Spain, comes Anahi, a sultry Spanish Courtesan widow who has traveled throughout the new world and brings you now the flavors of Spain and Spanish America through her miraculous voice.

Wren of Inquity

Kids' Kingdom

Gnome Quest

Pursue the 50 gnomes hidden about the village - some of them GOLDEN this year only - in the markets and shops.  Earn your Official Gnome Finder Certificate and credit towards this year’s Collectible Limited Edition Medallion.

Music and Learning

Listen to the haunting tunes of the time and learn about Renaissance instruments played by the Ad Hoc Consortium.

Merlin's School Of Magic

Our wacky wizard returns with an all-new interactive show.  It's time for magic class!  Enjoy this fun blend of magic, comedy, and audience-participation as Merlin searches for a new sorcerer's apprentice.  Beware, things can go terribly wrong, but with a little bit of magic all will be fine in the end.  Be amazed and amused and leave the show an official "apprentice" of magic. 

Just Play

Play with our toy castles, or build one of your own with wooden blocks!  Ride the stick ponies, challenge your friends to our “period” street games. Make up a story on the felt wall.  Make a wish and learn about the meaning and history of wishing wells from Gwendolyn, the Fairy docent at our golden anniversary Fairy Garden wishing well!

Storytelling and Drama for Young and Old Alike!

Enjoy the plays onstage as our young Improv troupe engages children in comedy!  Listen to the tale of a boy making a new wool coat, starting with only his sheep!  Enjoy restructured fairy tales, starring our talented young cast!  Share a folk story with Gammer Gosling.  Tales of adventure with the Ship’s Musician await you!  Cheer on the Lady Hero as a young lass is rescued from the clutches of an evil Lord!

Here be Pyrates!

Pyrates have come and buried their treasure in our sandbox!  If you can find a piece, you can keep your favorite one and rebury the rest just like a pyrate yourself!  Arrrrgh!

Play Games

Learn to play Renaissance games such as Nine Men’s Morris and Goose.  See if you can beat Wee Sean, the wily Game Master.

Happily Ever After

Relax at the end of the day as our Ship’s Musician plays songs for you on his harp and whistle, as we sing along.

For Naughtier Appetites

The following shows may contain adult themes or content!

Belles of Bedlam

Come and enjoy a musical romp with The Belles of Bedlam! These bawdy maidens will delight you with their goofy antics and naughty content! NC-17 when performing on The Rogue's Reefe Stage. PG-13 when performing on The Golden Jubilee Stage. “Like” us on Facebook for all our news and announcements! Https://www.facebook.com/bellesofbedlam

The Dread Crew of Oddwood

The Dread Crew of Oddwood is a seven member "heavy mahogany" band from Southern California. What is "heavy mahogany" music, you ask? It's a blend of acoustic folk rock, heavy metal, punk, and traditional celtic music... played by pirates. Forming in fall of 2008, this adventurous and outrageously energetic group of brigands has already taken renaissance fair circuits, pub communities, private residences, conventions, and music venues by storm throughout the entire nation. They have a slew of valiant, terrifying, and amusing songs spewing tales of destruction, debauchery, and camaraderie, all performed with the unique instrumental lineup that makes the group stand out amongst their genre.
Featuring Captain Wolfbeard O'Brady on accordion and tin whistle, First Mate Riven Rahl on toy piano, Carpenter Ruba Jouba on mandolin and guitar, Navigator Smithy Crow on upright bass, Gunmaster Castle on the "Oddkit" trap set and steel pans, and brothers Stark and Deckard Cordwain on Irish bouzouki and ukulele respectively, Oddwood is steadfast gaining popularity in the pirate music scene with their epic seafaring sound and extensive vocal harmonization. Their albums "Reign the Helm" and “Rocktopus” feature not only distinctive original work, but their critically-acclaimed covers from the spectrum of traditional Irish music to video game soundtracks to good old heavy metal!

The Merry Wives of Windsor

These Lusty Serving Wenches return to the Faire serving bawdy songs and plenty of good cheer! NC-17 when performing on the Rogue's Reef Stage. PG-13 when performing on the Royal Music Stage.

Poxy Boggards

This self-described "drinking group with a singing problem" will delight you with their bawdy songs and naughty antics. NC-17 when performing on the Rogue's Reef Stage. PG-13 when performing on the Royal Music Stage.

Pye Powder Court

Always full of surprises and antic accusations. This bawdy, raucous bit of revelry is the longest continuously performed show at Faire. Performed on the Rogue's Reef Stage.

Sportive Tricks

A Southern California Folk-Rock Band with a heavy Irish influence, Sportive Tricks take great delight in giving traditional music a strong beat and an interesting twist. They also play many original tunes, both serious & silly.
The band started as performers at the Original Renaissance Faire more than five years ago and now play year round at pubs and concerts in Southern California. Inspired by the rich traditions of Irish, Scottish, & English folk, Cape Breton music, and sea shanties; Sportive Tricks combines traditional instruments with new arrangements, high energy, and a dash of humor for a foot tapping, hand clapping good time. Visit our website!

Guilds and Troupes

The guilds & troupes of the Renaissance Pleasure Faire are performance groups portraying various facets of Elizabethan life. Click on the name to go to their official website, where available. Contact information is available if you'd like more information on joining or auditioning for that Guild or Troupe.

The ASL Interpreters of the Southern California Renaissance Pleasure Faire

We provide interpreting services for our Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (HoH) guests. Stage shows, shopping, directions, etc are all covered to allow the best show possible. A schedule of Interpreted shows are given to both information booths, at the front gate and at Friends of Faire, for each faire day. Each stage board also will have the interpreter symbol next to an interpreted show. This year we will have interpreters stationed around the faire for any Deaf/HoH customer to be able to communicate with people in the booths in an easy and efficient manner. We will also provide interpreters for any Deaf/HoH person who would like to work at the faire, for their workshops or on site meetings with their guild/booth. If an emergency occurs on site and an interrpreter is needed, we do that too! We are here to make your faire experience the best it can be!
This year we will have 16 interpreters. 10 are seasoned Interpreters and 6 are students from local Interpreting Programs, gaining experience through mentorships. Between the 10 of us, we have 97 years of Faire Interpreting.

Director: Laurie Sullivan

Email: renfaireterp@aol.com

Circus Of Invention

They don't know the meaning of the word "Impossible." Of course, they also don't know the meanings of words like "Gravity," "Physics," "Public-safety," or even "Aardvark." They do, however, know "Creativity." With everything they do, they try to make the world a better place by building imaginative gizmos, gadgets, and contraptions. With their...unique inventions they launch themselves- often face first- into a brave new future!

Director: Robert Beatie

Email: rob@circusofinvention.com

Commedia Volante

Commedia Volante is an innovative and exciting theatrical group which celebrates authentic Italian Renaissance theater, music and dance . Originally founded in 1998 as Dominatori Della Commedia, the company has expanded into three performing troupes with the contribution of talented actors, musicians, and artisans. Commedia Volante skillfully combines a unique blend of improvisational satire, physical comedy, puppeteering, classic characters and scenarios. This frenetic, mirthful performance troupe celebrates its 15th year at The Renaissance Pleasure Faire and is under the direction of the multi-award winning, director/actor/costume designer, Roxanne Dungereaux. Since its humble beginnings, Commedia Volante has endeavored to be a unique artistic vehicle for the preservation and presentation of Italian Renaissance Commedia D’ell Arte and Italian Renaissance Music. Our core mission is to present this art form in an accessible, skillful, imaginative style which honors tradition, while bringing fresh and innovative perspective to 21st Century eyes. The timeless characters of Arlecchino, Colombina and Pantalone invite you to "Come, and let the world slip, we shall ne'er be younger."
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/44153981163/
Website: www.commediavolante.com

Director: Roxanne Dungereaux

Email: ciao.commedivolante@gmail.com

Country Garden Dancers

This dance troupe performs high energy, exhilarating dance in the English Country tradition -- including both authentic period dances and original pieces -- in bright and colorful stage shows.  CGD also continues the ancient and hallowed tradition of dancing around the Maypole as a celebration of springtime and revelry.  Children are welcome to join us as we wrap the Maypole up in ribbons!
Director: Kris Davey

Email: krisdavey@hotmail.com

Court of the May

Fun and Merriment abound in the presence of the May Revelers! These blissful representatives of spring and all its glory are here to play, to dance and to sing, and to encourage spring romance throughout Port Deptford!  The lovely Queens of the May can be found wrapping the Maypole with the Country Garden Dancers, Thwarting the Puritans, flirting with the Yeoman of the Guard, and thoroughly enjoying their day at the Faire!
Director: Alessia Zemo

Email: alessialzemo@gmail.com

The Court Of Misrule - Fool's Guild

Delight in the antics of these lively fools and merrymakers as they spread fun and merriment throughout the Shire.

Director: Misty Rivera-Pauly

Email: ditzie_chick@yahoo.com

Danse Macabre

Even in the most festive villages, the Plague could always rear its ugly head and spoil our play. Join these dancers in the street as they trick death away from our Shire and remind us to live each day to the fullest.

Director: Bob Fox

Email: cyberbobfx@aol.com

The Florentines of San Lorenzo

Florence: The Birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to the d'Medici family, infamous leaders of Tuscany; patrons of the finest artists, architects and scholars; and world-renown arbiters of style and grandeur. Ambassadors from the d'Medici family have arrived at Port Deptford with a colorful contingent of Italian lords and ladies, soldiers, swordsmen and artists. Learn the methods and techniques of the rapier and arming sword, enjoy a reading of beauteous Italian literature, watch a Florentine court portrait artist ply his craft, or discover what the Renaissance Florentines knew about herbs, plants and medicine. As the saying goes, "Everyone wants to be a Medici." Come see for yourself.

Guildmaster: Pax Smith

Email: Paximus@aol.com

The Gentlemen Adventurers

The patriots, Heroes and Explorers of Elizabeth's England! We are the men responsible for establishing England's first colonies, the exploration of the New World and leading England's interests in military matters. We are men of money, education and fortitude. See these military officers, explorers and gentlemen take to the streets conducting personal duels and practicing their swordplay.

The ladies of the Gentlemen Adventurers are the educated women of the emerging 'merchant class' and frequently came from well-to-do families of England. They dance, spend their husband's money at the markets and train alongside our gentlemen as they form the backbone to all of the Gentlemen Adventurers.

Watch us on YouTube

Guildmaster: Steven Leon

Email:guildmaster@gentlemenadventurers.org

Guild of St. Andrews - Clan MacColin

This lively clan of Scottish singers, dancers, musicians, and soldiers demonstrate their slice of life in their interactive camp, entertain with their high stepping dance show and thrill with their skills in battle on the Tournament field.

Guildmaster: Steve Gillan

Email: Colinchief@hotmail.com

Guild of St. Cuthbert -

Parades and Pageants

Guildemaster: Sue Honor

Email: suehonor@pacbell.net

Guild of St. Helena - The Commoner's Guild

A thousand warm greetings to thee, o intrepid time-traveler!
Continuing a tradition almost as old as the Faire itself, we the Guild of Saint Helena's portray the Common Folk of the island of Britain, in anything but a common way, employing skills theatrical, technical, philosophical, scholarly, and romantic to entertain and enlighten all within our aegis.

Re-formed in 2008, the Guild’s mission is three-fold: to bring back the hallowed art of Street Theatre, to bring back all of the great old Faire traditions that have been lost over the years, and to entice the best and the brightest former Faire entertainers to return to these hallowed grounds and share what they know with a new generation of performers as yet unschooled in our unique art-form. We consider ourselves a Gateway Guild, providing an entré for those new to Faire and likewise providing a rich theatrical context for those whose skills have been burnished by experience, that we all may shine mightily; to share what we have learned so that others might follow.

To that end, we hold forth from our little hamlet of Duckbilled Nippingshire (a suburb of Port Deptford), and have constructed there our own stage (the Rose Wreath Stage), whereon we are inclined to mount our own plays and other entertainments. This year, we will be hosting two productions by former members of Dogs in Doublets; A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Pyramus and Thisbe, as well as return performances by the Aylesbury Cheese-Guild Players, who will be reprising their ever-popular Oedipus Rex, The Musical (planned, appropriately enough, for Mothers’ Day).

Also appearing on our stage will be a bouquet of musical offerings, including The Briton Ensemble, and a possible reunion of the late and much-beloved Linda Underhill’s Siren Song. We are also hoping to host Sportive Tricks and The Beltane Band. Please check our marquee for show-times; our schedule changes daily...

We will also be bringing back old Faire traditions such as The Hobby Hoss Pageant, The Abbotts Bromley Horn Dance and Procession, our uproarious Noon Revels (a feast, always a bit after 1 of the clock), and The Chairing of the Bard (a poetical competition along the lines of the great Welsh Eisteddfod). We will also be hosting some fresh new traditions, such as the vaunted Grozzeling Day, our dreaded Gurning Competition, and a fulsome celebration of May Eve.

We have our own troupe of Country Dancers, our own Morris Dancers, the finest musicians at Faire (come by for our 5 o’clock Convocation), The Commoners’ Choir, and an ever-unfolding cornucopia of surprises.

You may also see us tripping about the shire as we convey The Queen’s Butter to Her Majesty, herding our vast flock of Commoner Sheep, or strolling about in The Invisible Animal Promenade.

We also harbour a bevy of Crafters, who count amongst their skills the churning of butter, weaving, spinning, needle-work, and suchlike.
We hope that some of the above verbiage has enticed you sufficiently, and you will want to come and visit us. Do come by our little town, or greet us as you find us in the streets. We are hugely pleased that you have come to visit, and are looking forward to meeting you.
Regina Gloriana! God Save the Queen!

Guildemaster: R. Merlin

Email: myrrhlyn9@yahoo.com

The Guild of St. Ives - The Townsfolke

The Saint Ives Historical Society (Guild of St. Ives) is celebrating its 25^th year! As you enter the faire, our townsfolk are busy about their daily activities. Watch our skilled craftspeople as they spin thread, throw pottery, and craft jewelry, and gaze at the flirtatious women on the Bell’s porch. Listen to the sounds of our lusty blacksmiths as they forge hot iron, and the musicians as they play and sing lively Renaissance songs at the Queen’s Cup Tavern. Feel the handwoven wool and linen cloth and braid created in front of you by our master weavers, and take a hand to join in a spontaneous street dance of Sellenger’s Round. Have a word with our street folk, who always have time for a friendly greeting (as well as a ready quip). We are tremendously excited at the prospect of a visit from our beloved Queen, Elizabeth! Smell the fine aroma of sixteenth century baking from our cookyard; do all this, and before you know it, the Guild of St. Ives will have transported you to the streets of Deptford during the Elizabethan Renaissance on the morning of our spring Pleasure Faire…

Visit our website at http://www.saintives.com/

Guildmaster: Donna Flood

Email: dflood@ccis.com

Guild of St. Michael - The Military

The fierce, hardy soldiers and camp followers are found in this encampment, battling in the Arena, and escorting Her Majesty, The Queen. Stop by before 1:00 PM and your kids can train and march with the Queen's military and even join the show at the Queen's Royal Joust.

Guildmaster: "AJ" Johnson

Email: Aaron_Johnson@verizon.net

Kids' Kingdom

There are wonderful family-friendly activities all over Faire, but nowhere greater than in the magical land known as Kids' Kingdom. Kids of all ages will have an amazing time with games, crafts, story-telling, songs, shows, and our magical Kids' Kingdom characters. Special guests visit Kids' Kingdom throughout the day: the Ship's Musician with tales from the sea, mystical Story Tellers spinning stories older than time, our own Scottish Cearg, also known in England as a Mermaid, but much nicer, as well as other favorite characters from traditional storybook tales. Kids of all ages are invited to join in the fun and the magic!
Guildmistress: Linda Conley Ballard

Email: gammergosling@gmail.com

Norwich Waits

The Southern California Early Music Consort appears as Norwich Waits at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire as the Queen's band and the horse tourney fanfare ensemble. The Norwich Waits celebrates 37 years with the faire in 2012.

Historically, The Norwich Waits was the band that traveled with Queen Elizabeth when she left London on Progress. The group was famous for its collection of the finest musicians in the British Isles.

Our Norwich Waits can be heard performing all the music for the dances of the Royal Court as well as music for the Call O'the Faire & Queen's Show at the Main Stage and the Opening Gate Show at the beginning of every faire day.

Director: Tom Axworthy

Email: scemc@earthlink.net

The Privateers

Provided with a letter of Marque and in the name of England they have sailed across the seas. Some call them pirates, but they are proud privateers and are of the sea. They have pillaged many a ship for the glory of her Majesty and now return to land with many riches! These old salts are looking to spend in excess on drinks, gambling, company and maybe a few hearty fights. Be wary when one swaggers by, because when a sailor is on leave anything can and will happen.

Make ready your cannons and hail shot!

The Privateers use a mix of historical knowledge and guerrilla improv to create a comedic portrayal of privateering sailors on shore leave.

Director: Jason Sheffey

Email: tellmedark@gmail.com

Puritans

Pay heed to their stern warnings and colorful preachings against excess fun and frivolity but remember they do not always practice what they preach!
Director: Nick Balbas

Email: nickbalbas@aol.com

The Queen's Court

The Queen’s Court is an ensemble group of hearty volunteers who portray the historical characters who were part of Queen Elizabeth’s court during the first 10 years of her reign.  With research, costumes and a visual environment they strive to entertain and create a slice of Elizabethan life for customers and participants alike.  Their main task is to support the actress who plays Queen Elizabeth and they spend many hours in training and rehearsal to achieve this goal with improvisational theatre techniques.

Guildmaster: Terri Casey

Email:auntiegertus@yahoo.com

RenQuest

Find the Adventurer in YOU!
Experience RenQuest, a bold new interactive adventure at the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire. RenQuest delights gamers with an abundance of profound and absurd riddles, clues, spells and hunts. Players directly interact with faire performers, artisans, merchants, and all matter of various magical creatures. Earn achievements, collect rewards and ultimately test your mental abilities and physical acuity by joining one of the three Guilds of the Claw. Fantasy and history combine as players choose one of three career paths through this multi-day story to collect the thirteen treasures of the British Isles. Are you brave enough to take on the challenges of RenQuest?
For our younger adventurers, experience KidsQuest. Help our resident troll family get our treasure that was stolen by the evil Orcs.
Directors: Patricia Cox and Jon Ross
Email: nightengailsnite@yahoo.com or darthfalcon79@yahoo.com

St. Nicholas Home for Wayward Children
Babies built the Renaissance, and at St. Nicholas Home for Wayward Children, you'll meet a menagerie of children wearing authentic Renaissance wear, playing authentic games. The children of the performers become performers themselves as they learn authentic songs and dances, practice for a pageant, do the "washing" and play with the audience. Just remember, keep your fingers out of the cage, and please, don't feed the children!

Director: Stork Wilson

Email: storkus@aol.com

St. Swithin's Guild - The Village Mongers

The Mongers Guild portray relentless and determined street merchants who will attempt to sell anything. Barter with a frolicsome fishwife, a clattering tinker, or a bumbling barber- surgeon during morning market for some of the most interesting wares in the village!  And, once a day they take to the stage with the rollicking faire classic, Pye Powder Court.

Guildmaster: Diana Kaufman

Email: dtkaufman@gmail.com

The Town Criers

The Town Criers of Saint Blaise are known for their boisterous ways. Whether it is ringing bells, frolicking in the streets, crying the news or napping in a pile, the Criers can easily be spied about the Shire in their yellow sashes. Throughout the years, the Criers lead both the Queen and the Lord Mayor to various destinations, as well as delivering the news and gossip of the day. So if you hear our bells and the call of "Make Way!" you know that the excitement is approaching.

Director: Heidi Halsell

Email: heidibug1976@hotmail.com

St Minerva's Washer Women

Caution, you may get wet! - Wit, Water & Song fly freely at the washing well. Laundry, and laughter is the life-blood of these lively women. The Washing Well has been seen as a slice of daily life for the village where women gather to do their wash, gossip, argue and laugh. (photo by John Truong)

Director: Angela Allen

Email: bucketandcudgel@gmail.com

Yeomen of The Queen's Guard

You'll see them on the streets, dashing young gentlemen dressed in bright red. They are England's longest standing military unit, the Yeomen of the Guard. They protect the Queen. They protect the nobles. They hunt for spies. And they woo women, oh do they woo women. You'll find them accompanied by ladies in blue, the Queen's Household. They protect the men, they hunt for husbands, they woo, too. Do not ask them about their jugs. You'll find them all at lunchtime, entertaining her Majesty with fine foods, lovely songs, and stories that might make you laugh. Maybe cry.

Find then on Facebook.

Guildmaster: Gordon Bradley

Email: biggb@jps.net