Glastonbury Renaissance Faire isn’t just about observing the re-enactments and entertainment from history, but experiencing these wondrous times with us. When you walk through the front gate, you enter into a world of wonder. From the clashing of steel blades during the staged combats to listening to wandering troubadours, and the other entertainers of the period, there is something to bring alive those childhood memories of magic, fantasy and mythic heroes no matter your age. Our own Queen Mary will be visiting the Faire each day for Royalty processions with her own court and attendants, and she will also be accompanied by Royalty from the Wolfgang Bavarian Guild of Washington. The Empire of Chivalry and Steel will also include lessons in sword fighting for children. So read on about some of the performers scheduled this year.

 

Heather Alexander, born in San Francisco, raised with the customs of the isles firmly bred into her by her mother and grandmother, both natives of Britain. Her musical education began at age six and by age nine, she was teaching herself to play the violin. She later began composing songs and honed her skills with several years of private study in music, voice and drama. While at the same time finding her niche in Celtic music by playing fiddle for the Irish and Scots dancers at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire. Since that time, her original music has been heavily influenced by the traditions of her roots. she has performed on several albums, either as an instrumentalist, vocalist, composer or arranger. In 1994, Heather produced her first solo CD, Wanderlust, with backup from Rob Wullenjohn and Lief Sorbye of Tempest, and concert harpist Jenny Lindner. Released on her independent label, Sea Fire Productions, Wanderlust has been well received across the U.S. We are pleased to have Heather Alexander back as our headline performer. Come tap your feet to her lilting Celtic music.

The Empire of Chivalry and Steel specializes in the general recreation of the culture of the Middle Ages, including all of the Art Forms, Events (Feasts, Tournaments, Ceremonies and Wars) and Combat Arts from that period. The purpose of this non-profit educational corporation is to study, and teach the general public the ideals and history from the Year 800AD to the Year 1650AD. They specifically cover the geographical boundaries of Europe, and provide an organized effort in the collection, interpretation and distribution of historical data through publication and demonstration. They also have special activities for the youth at the Faire.

 

Royal Magick. Zinger the Magick and his loyal apprentice Richarde join us for the fifth year to entertain young and old with the stories and the magick of the tymes. He believes and proves to his audiences that Imagination is the most powerful and valuable thing you own. Royal Magick also engageth flights of fancy that will tickle your funny bone.

Shakespeare will be joining the Faire for his fifth year, and is always a hit with the young and old. Rod Molzahn's 35 years in theatre have included acting, directing, teaching and writing. He has brought Will Shakespeare to life for audiences in the United States and Canada since 1986, performing in Renaissance Faires, theatres, schools, and arts festivals, to the delight of audiences of all ages. Faire Visitors will be treated to a first-rate theatrical performance as Rod Molzahn infuses his portrayal with years of research and study of Shakespeare the man, the playwright, the poet, and the literary legend.

Molzahn has been included on the Artist in Residency rosters for the Arts Commissions of Washington and Oregon. He is regularly invited to perform and teach on all levels from elementary to university. He teaches a Shakespeare Camp in Newport, OR for youth every summer. Since 1994, Molzahn has also produced and directed the Wells House Players, a summer acting company of students performing Shakespeare outdoors.

Ye Merrie Greenwood Players consists of actors, dancers, and musicians of all ages. They bring Elizabethan England alive through song, dance, costuming, and environmental theatre. The company members research their own character and make their own costumes. The clothing they wear is a real expression both of the character they play and their own personality, as well as a representation of actual clothing of the times. One of the highlights for the audiences are their troupe of belly-dancers.

The Band of Wandering Idiots, known more commonly as the BOWI are fresh from their first recording session at Tinderbox Studios. Ken Cofield, Tony Schuler, Cara Reimann, and Rich Treachout return to their second year at our Faire with a whole new bucket of highly energized Traditional and Original Celtic music. Prepare to get up and dance as BOWI kicks out some somin’ jigs and reels and a little bit of madness.

Shakespeare’s Bloody Bits are an exciting new addition to this year’s exhilarating entertainment schedule.

James the Obscure is an itinerant teller of traditional tales. Ancient tales from the Norse and the Celts (and whatever else resonates) are heard in the land. Of heros and of Gods as well as strong minded women, of wisdom, deception and might. The old tales show us the heart and mind of ancient peoples from which they sprang. The tales of James the Obscure are heard around the Faire near the eating establishments, the campfires, or on the main grounds.

The Sherwood Renaissance Singers of Sherwood, Oregon return to perform their madrigals with laughter and some tears. Please watch for them for a memorable entertainment.

The Pearwood Pipers