2009 Florida Renaissance Festival Entertainers


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The ROMAN ENCAMPMENT
1st Weekend of RenFest ONLY >> Feb 7 & 8

TERMINALIA

♦   Be a part of the first large scale Roman Reenactment event in Florida ! Hosted by Legio X of Florida and the ISPA (Imperial Southern Provincial Army) , we cordially invite Romanophiles and brother Legionaries to TERMINALIA ! The First large scale Roman event in Florida! Held the 1st weekend of the Ren Fair, TERMINALIA will encorporate the Roman Legions, Gladiators, Roman Vendors , and much much more!

♦   To participate as a Roman, contact Paul Edward Columna Sr. of Leg X (click on title above to visit their website). We look forward to hosting our brother legions of the Southeast !


CAST IN BRONZE

Imagine that you play a musical instrument so rare that no one knows it exists. Imagine further that this instrument weighs several tons, making it next to impossible to perform indoors. Cast in Bronze was created to bring the haunting beauty of the CARILLON to more listeners by demonstrating its versatility with other instruments.

The CARILLON is played by a silent and masked "spirit of the bells" that appears only to breathe life into the instrument for the performance. The "spirit" and creator of Cast in Bronze, Frank Della Penna, began his studies in Valley Forge, PA, and is a graduate of the French Carillon School in Tourcoing, France.


The only musical act in the world
featuring this four ton
medieval instrument called a
" CARILLON "


AXEL THE SOT - Rated PG-13

Heard on The Doctor Demento Show! Climb aboard and set sail with everyone’s favorite Drunken Sailor, Axel the Sot.

Axel will entertain you with naughty songs and limericks as well as jokes, toasts and more. With 20 years on the festival circuit, Axel is bringing his "Portable Pub Show" back to The Florida Renaissance Festival. Not to be missed!


ROBIN HOOD

Patrick Franz has been on stage at over 50 faires (both Renaissance and other) since he began performing in California over 14 years ago. He is the director of the Sons of Anacreon, a Victorian comedy/singing group and has taken his act on the road. Over the years he has acted, sung, and fought on stages all over the country, often creating and recreating Shakespeare's work, as well as playing the bard himself on occasion. He has worked with many wild animals: Panthers, Falcons, and Children.

He is both a director and fight choreographer and loves to make things to go boom. He has also founded "Presenters of Living History" teaching California students American History, Shakespeare, Commedia, and historical craft skills.


CHARLIE RAFFERTY - Rated PG

The music of Charlie Rafferty has delighted audiences around the world for nearly three decades. He has performed and recorded with legendary traditional and not so traditional musicians in many genres, entertaining all manner of folk at festivals, concert venues, pubs, weddings, and events of all kinds across North America and beyond.

Charlie was mesmerized by the bagpipes at the age of three when his parents would take him to the highland games. He was enthralled by That Fantastic Instrument when he heard great numbers of pipes played in beautiful polyphony during the parades. So hooked, he himself started to play both Highland Pipes and Flute in his early teens. In addition to playing Celtic Music, Charlie practices as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine and crafts fine Bamboo Flutes.


TEMUJIN THE STORYTELLER

"A STORY IS AN EPHEMERAL THING THAT ONLY TRULY EXISTS AT THE MOMENT OF IT'S TELLING... IT COMES FROM THE TELLER ALIVE AND HAS A FRESH LIFE WHICH EACH TELLING." Babalosa Obalorun Temujin Ekùnféo (Temujin The Storyteller), His list of talents includes lecturer, workshop developer, musician, and instrument maker. As both a scholar and performer of African culture Temujin feels a strong commitment to researching African Folklore from the Americas as well as from the continent of Africa and shares it by means of family oriented, audience participatory storytelling programs. All of this is done in the ancient tradition of the "Itinerate African Bard" hailing crowds with his talking drum. Temujin studied Anthropology and Theater at The University of Pittsburgh and African dance, drumming and languages at The Olatunji Center for African Culture in New York City.


THE DUELISTS - Rated PG

The Duelists match wit & witticism, insult & innuendo, combat & comedy for a completely original and comedic take on dueling and swordsmanship. Using a variety of weapons-rapiers, longswords, axes, the halberd, mace, ball & chain and more.

The Duelists perform exciting and dynamic swordfights as they provide instruction in 'The Manly art of the Epic Duel'


BRET BLACKSHEAR & JAYNA LEE - CURIOUS COMEDY MAGIC ! - Rated PG

"Multi-talented entertainers Bret Blackshear and Jayna Lee perform a magical variety show called "Curious Magic and Impossible Illusions!"

The show incorporates sleight of hand magic, illusions, comedy, acrobatics, juggling, and audience participation with relaxed, unpretentious Vaudevillian-esque flair!"


THE HARPER AND THE MINSTREL

Jay and Abby Michaels - The Harper and The Minstrel are a Celtic/Renaissance duo specializing in aires and ballads with an occasional jig or reel, many of their own original songs, and music from the Baroque and Renaissance periods. Their influences include early music from Europe and the Celtic lands, Yes, Loreena McKennitt, Sting, The New World Renaissance Band, Cantiga and Led Zeppelin. Husband and wife team of Jay and Abby Michaels have performed together since 2002. Jay plays the nylon and wire-strung Celtic Harps, Guitar and he sings. Abby sings, plays Flutes, Recorders, Penny whistles, Guitar, Harp and Bowed Psaltery.


FAIRE WYNDS ENTERTAINMENT

The Glass Harps - some have called it an Angelic Instrument, some an instrument of insanity, to some it was called the Ghost Fiddle. No matter what, everyone who hears it calls it one of the most soothing sounds that they have ever heard. First seen in the 5th century, musicians Eric and Susan Scites of Faire Wynds present this beautifully sounding-and unique-instrument as it appeared in the 16th century and later. Humanity At It's Best, or Arlequine's Nightmare is the creation of the family team of Faire Wynds. Hearkening back to the early traveling troupes of history, this trio, consisting of Dad, Mom and Daughter bring entertainments for the whole family. Fire-eating, magic, contorting, sword basket/ladder, mentalism and more. Designed for everyone from the kids to gramma, this is one show that has the whole family in mind!


THE LIMEYBIRDS - Rated PG

Sweet Sirens with Wicked Wit - This award winning act is one of today's hottest "Don't Miss" acts on the Renaissance Festival circuit. The Limeybirds are unique - high energy antics, sharp wit, and not to mention their stunning harmonies. The Limeybirds are Faith, Charity & Bunnie - 3 strong sisters of song who genuinely love what they do - and boy does that show! Standard Renfest tunes that everyone knows and loves plus some Original music; a new take on the "Wench Style Act". The Limeybirds present a new style Renaissance show. What sets these gals apart? Drawing on their professional Musical Theatre backgrounds; they have sculpted a wierd, wacky and wonderful 30-40 minute show that envelopes the audience and carries them away. Rated N for Naughty... and Last Show of the Day rated N for NAKED! (PG & R)


HOOLIGAN

With a combined 60+ years of performance, Bernard, Miller and Rafferty bring a wealth of experience and musical flair to the table.

They are known for rowdy reels and jigs to get the feet tapping, a jovial ballad or two, as well as sweet slow airs to bring a tear to the unwary eye. The end result is a captivating blend of Celtic and original music, a delicious concoction they fondly refer to as 'Music Soup': Just plain good for the soul!


ALBANNACH - Rated PG

Albannach is Scots-Gaelic for "Scottish" or "Scotsman". That's exactly what we are. Albannach are all born and bred in Scotland and our purpose in life is to share our intriguing culture, history and heritage with you by means of our music.
Albannach is not just another Scottish "Pipes & Drums" band; indeed we bring a new and exciting form of music to you to help celebrate our unique heritage. A champion piper, an extremely talented lead drummer, bass drummers and bodhran musicians bring you a brand new approach to percussion and Celtic music, with a mix of haunting vocals. Albannach's music is power, passion and a primal sound unlike any other you've experienced before and we promise to leave you begging for more. Celtic Radio chose our debut CD as the 2006 Album of the Year.


LADY ETTIE - Professional Beauty

Lady Ettie is a beloved character of taste and fashion endearing our village-advising guests on matters of etiquette and deportment. Always ready to assist visitors to Playhaven on the changing trends of international fashions. Her sense of style is described as unique.

She reminds all that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.


MASALA MIDDLE EASTERN DANCE FUSION

Masala Middle Eastern Dance Fusion is a unique performance company created by two women who have combined their innovative style with many years of dance and music study from international masters to create intriguing choreographies and exceptional performances. Masala Ensemble is comprised of a group of performers who share Brianna and Erin's passion for performance art. Masala Fusion can be seen throughout the country in theatrical presentations, Middle Eastern themed school lectures and demonstrations, plus master classes and workshops for all levels.


COMMON STOCK ENTERTAINMENTS

Join Jack and Maddie as they roll their Turnip Wagon of Wonders through the village. Play "What's in the Box?" - See Worlds in Miniature and Miniature Worlds! Become a Puppeteer in One Fell Swoop! Pet the Dragon! Laugh along with the Hardest Working People in Puppetland! Common Stock - Rubbing Elbows with the Masses for 25 Years.


IVANOVICH !

Ivanovich! embodies mystery. The Russian gypsy conjuror will read your mind, multiply your money, and do things that you KNOW are impossible, right under your nose. And then he'll do them again. You'll laugh, you'll gasp, you'll scream and you'll love every second of it. He works up close, in the streets, and at the "magic bar" and YOU are always an integral part of the constantly-running show. You'll give him a minute, and he'll help you to lose your sense of reality. Don't worry, he'll help you to find it again.


COBBLESTONE CHARACTERS

As you walk the paths of the good village of Playhaven, the streets become the stage when you meet the Cobblestone Characters :
♦   The Gardyloo Sisters - Privy Cleaners, masters of mirth and filth
♦   Mistress Pristine Christine - The Wife of Bath. Have you had your bath yet this year?
♦   Hugh and Crye - Village Byway Patrol - Don't get caught speeding!
♦   Grimly Grimes - The Unbefowler, Master of Trash Execution
♦   The Spell Checker - An expert in all spells and potions...if she can just remember them...


BRIGHTON BRASS HERALD TRUMPETS & SACBUTS

Brighton Brass Herald Trumpets & Sacbuts have been performing since 1999 at FLARF. Performing the hits of the 1600's, including such composers as King Henry VIII, Thomas Morley, Thomas Weelkes, Heinrich Issac, Orlando di Lasso and more, Brighton Brass can be found heralding at the front gate, the joust, in the parade and providing a grand entrance for royalty as well as music for the scenario. Executive Director and founder John White has been performing with FLARF on trumpet since 1993. Other members include Director and trumpet Chris O'Farrill, trumpet David Zeidell, trombone Paul "Southwood" - Smith and bass trombone Matt DiLeonardo.


THE HOPELESS ROMANTICS COMEDY SHOW

Featuring Guido Libido ! Friend to all women!..... Alllllll women!.... Sometimes twice! Telling love stories through out the ages, but the way they REALLY happened! Because in the books they got it all wrong! This Interactive Comedy Show involves the audience to portray some of history's most tragic couples. Learn to be Romeo, the lover of all lovers. Or Juliet, fair Juliet, sought after by all the men of Verona...Alllllll the men Also, look for Guido on the street teaching the art of.....well, picking up women. Sharing Personal tales of Romance, and Tragedy. Because love is funny! Guido will also play host to the Challenge Chess match, were the audience gets to play the chess pieces in this battle of silly challenges, fun for all ages.



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NOBLE CAUSE PRODUCTIONS
Noble Cause Productions specializes in jousting, stage combat instruction, fight choreography, and horse stunts. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality shows for our audiences. Noble Cause is continually striving to reach new heights with breathtaking new show concepts. Our Knights, on their noble steeds, truly bring heroes and villains to life in THREE exciting, fast paced, thrilling shows a day. Each act filled with all the pomp and pageantry of the age, giving young and old alike reason to raise their voices and cheer their champion on to victory! After each performance, and through out the day, we look forward to meeting our fans and interacting with them, so please, say hello!



CHRISTOPHE THE INSULTOR

Cutting edge stand-up comedy at the Florida Renaissance Festival? You bet ! Come watch people hire Christophe to insult the bejesus out of their friends and family.

Very smart and VERY funny, but also quite dirty.

Get someone to watch the kids...


FLIGHT OF THE RAPTOR

Started in 1990, by Master Falconer, Ray Pena, Flight of the Raptor has been seen and enjoyed by thousands over the years. Driven by his own desire to understand these amazing creatures, Ray has dedicated his life to the ancient art and sport of falconry. His interest was sparked at the age of 15 when tending to his homing pigeons on his Bronx home rooftop. With the guidance of friend and mentor, Dr. Heinz Meng, and with the help of Ray's daughter, Jennifer (also a licensed falconer), Flight of the Raptor strives to share knowledge, experience, and love of birds of prey with all who are interested.



HARLING IRISH DANCERS

The Harling Irish Dancers are Florida's premiere Irish Dance Troupe. The Harling Troupe is under the direction of Maureen Harling-Welty who is a certified teacher and adjudicator of Irish Dance. Ranging in age from eight to eighteen, the Harling Irish Dancers perform both traditional and contemporary Irish Dance.

The
Harling Irish Dancers perform and compete throughout the United States and recently qualified three of the dancers to represent the United States at the World Championships. The Harling Irish Dancers recently toured Ireland, celebrating the 10th Anniversary of this remarkable and talented young Irish troupe from Florida.



MARSHALL LAWW

♦   Marshall Laww's Wench Auction - Squires sold too ! Lord Marshall Laww, Earl of Kent, auctions off peasants to the highest bidder. No money is exchanged, but laughter certainly is! Audience members match wits with the lord by bidding imaginary goods and nonexistent livestock. Tasteful bawdiness abounds. Come to the auction of wenches and squires (but never of wrenches). The bids are so fake, but can bid a dead snake, and leave with a peasant that frenches.
♦   Marshall Laww's Cock 'n Bull Stories - Lascivious Limericks, Tawdry Tales, and Dirty Ditties. First, Sheriff Laww spins scandalous stories off the cuff and acts them out on the spot while taking suggestive suggestions from the audience. Next, have your funny bone tickled at a retelling of the classic lust story, Lysistrata, in which the revolting women of Greece withhold romantic ‘favors’ until the heads of state agree to stop the war. Be forewarned, the Sheriff may also sing. Togas optional.



WASHING WELL WENCHES

The Washing Well Wenches



CELTIC MAYHEM

Combining the talents of members of three of the renaissance faire circuit's most popular musical acts, Celtic Mayhem has been entertaining audiences with their unique brand of Celtic folk music since the Spring of 2007.
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Featuring
Ty Billings (Minstrels of Mayhem) Martyn Wylde (Wyldefyre) and Jack Stamates (Generica), Celtic Mayhem have developed into a true "Celtic power trio".