STAGE, STREET ACTS & ROYAL COURT EVENTS

Adam Crack: World Record Whips

Adam ‘Crack’ Winrich is a 34-time Guinness World Record holder for whip cracking. His recent records include “Most Balloons Popped with a Whip in One Minute” and “Most Jenga Blocks removed with a Whip in One Minute”. He has appeared on Conan O’Brien, America’s Got Talent, and HBO.

See Adam at Blackfriars' Theatre from October 3rd to October 25th.

Archery Demonstration

James Frank, director. See a demonstration of the English longbow - the weapon that changed the history of Britain. This informative demonstration will also include the use of bows handmade in our village Militia tent. Performed daily in the Jousting Field, 9/12 - 10/25.
http://www.period-productions.com/

Bad Idea Variety Show

Since 2014 Bad Idea Variety Show has been on the road traveling to Renaissance Faires showcasing “Better Entertainment Through Poor Life Choices”. Join Douglas Stafford from 8/29- 9/7 at the Gatehouse Stage and then 10/10 - 10/25 at Fortune Stage and judge his poor life choices for yourself! https://bad-ideas-entertainment.com/

Three acrobats in colorful costumes performing balancing act

Barely Balanced

Comedy. Acrobatics. Danger.
Don't miss Small, Medium, and Large as they return to the Blackfriars Theatre for three fun-filled weekends! For over 15 years they've been wowing audiences across the country.
Performing 9/12 - 9/20.
https://barelybalanced.com/

Heraldic shield with red splatter and lions

The Bloody Drama

The Bloody Drama {Comedy Show}
We entreat you to come and see our interactive comedy show. There are two different Bloody Dramas. One is totally improvised. Bob Garman, Jack Reda and Steve Heaton.

Performing at The Globe on September 12th & 13th only!

Bearded man in medieval costume performing

BROON

Broon is back to help the Festival celebrate our 50th season!

Brian Howard started his career performing a street show at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Holding an audiences attention for up to thirty minutes, when their previous focus had been solely on finding a good place to eat crab cakes, proved to be a great learning experience and thus Brian began to hone his highly improvised and edgy style.

Brian then brought his show to the Maryland Renaissance Festival performing under the name ‘Broon’ and became a very popular act.

Around this time Brian became a regular cast member of the improvisational comedy troupe ‘Comedy Sportz Washington’, as well as the political satire group ‘Gross National Product’. Along with James Newport, Brian went on to found and direct Comedy Sportz Orlando. After returning to the DC area he became the director of Comedy Sportz DC and created the experimental improv troupe Emitt’s Boys.

Brian continues to travel, performing in theaters and festivals nationwide as well as hosting his podcast ’The Brian Howard Show’.

Don't miss him at Blackfriars Theatre from August 29th to September 7th!

www.brianhowardcomedy.com

Bron Cardwright

NEW!

Bron Cardwright is a character-driven card magician blending old-world charm, sharp wit, and skilled cardcraft into interactive performances. Presented as a wandering historian and reluctant sorcerer, Bron invites audiences into a playful wold where cards become characters, stories unfold through magic, and humor keeps the experience light, accessible, and engaging.

Special guest for Myth & Magic weekend, September 12th & 13th.

https://www.broncardwright.com/

Captain Nobeards Travelling Menagerie promotional image

Captain NoBeard's Travelling Menagerie of Mythical Beasts and Magical Creatures

Cantankerous, charismatic crowd-favorite Captain Nobeard, of the Pirate Escape show, TreasureQuest, and Famous Death Scenes, brings you an all-new show: Captain Nobeard’s Travelling Menagerie of Mythical Beasts and Magical Creatures!

This new show takes on the great mysteries, like, “How does a dragon breathe fire?”, “Where does a gryphon hide her eggs?”, and “Who thought the title of the show wasn’t too long to legibly fit on a sign?”

Witness mysterious creatures thought to be legend! See the mystical phoenix! Gaze at the basilisk!* Better understand the creatures behind the myths as Captain Nobeard shares all his myth-understandings with you! This show combines humor, magic, and puppetry.

*(Don’t gaze directly at the basilisk. The gaze of a basilisk is deadly)

Performing all season at the Gatehouse Stage!

https://matthewpauli.wordpress.com/

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Characters! Court & Villagers

The Festival is set in the small village of Revel Grove, located in Oxfordshire. Each year the village has a Harvest Festival. King Henry VIII, Queen Anne, and their courtiers are in attendance. From the King to the local farmer, all are happy to engage with the guests, introducing them to their world in 1540. The villagers and courtiers will be in the pathways and on the stages of Revel Grove.

Children's Knighting Ceremony

All goodly young gentles can be knighted by the King! This brief general knighting ceremony takes place at the Fortune Stage. Immediately following the knighting, individuals can get their photos taken with the King. Time: TBA

Columbina: The Courtesan Show (Ask A Courtesan)

What was a courtesan and how could these women of ill-repute become some of the most sought after advisors and influencers in the world? Come, laugh, and learn about what it was like to be in this special part of society from Columbina, the woman who has seen and done it all. Performed at Reveler's Bower once daily, all season except 9/26,27. Rated PG-13
Michele G. Schultz as Columbina
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063497015401

Conundrum, street puzzler

Todd Brown. Conundrum will confound you with amazing tricks and puzzles. Encounter his magic in the pathways, 9/12 - 10/25.

Two costumed performers laughing under improv party sign

Daisy O'Danny's IMPROV PARTY with Skumboy and friends

Join Daisy O'Danny and SkumBoy in a battle of wits and fun in improvisational games with different special guests! Performed once daily at the Reveler's Bower from 8/29 - 9/27.

https://odannygirls.com/

Celtic Magic with Daniel GreenWolf and Bella

Celtic Magic with Daniel GreenWolf and Bella is a show that takes Highly Visual Magic, Theatrical Storytelling, Interactive Comedy, & Thrilling Danger and wraps it in a Celtic Theme that has been described as "A Witty, Modern-Day Celtic Viking. Like James Joyce with a Broad Sword." At Royal Fox Theatre from 10/3 - 10/11.

https://www.danielgreenwolf.com/

Dash Rippington's Dangerously Stupid Show

Multiple Guinness World Record holder Dash Rippington invites all Friends and Enemies to gather 'round as he causes himself discomfort and considerable amounts of pain. All for your entertainment! He is the King of Animal Traps, the originator of the SnotRocket Blockhead, and brings over 25 years of sideshow experience to his performances. Step Right Up! Who wants to watch Dash do something Dangerously Stupid? TWO SHOWS daily. At the Lyric Stage. Rated -PG.

Photo by Steve Parke

https://www.facebook.com/Dashrippington

Death and The Fool by Happenstance Theater

A Tarot-inspired Mystery Play full of slapstick comedy, whimsy, and music to drive away fear and offer relief from impending doom. As the Fool faces Death and seeks guidance, you too can consult the Oracle, be comforted by the High Priestess, put your trust in the Doctor, and give your troubles to the Crone.

Happenstance Theater co-founders Mark Jaster and Sabrina Mandell (better known to festival audiences as "O" and LaLa!) are joined by their three company members in this celebration of autumn. Death and the Fool draws on material from their hit show, Adrift, A Medieval Wayward Folly, which was nominated by the 2024 NY Drama Desk Awards for "Unique Theatrical Experience."

At the Blackfriar's Theatre from October 3rd - October 11th.

Photo by Alex Vernon

https://www.happenstancetheater.com/

DeBracey Productions

DeBracey Productions returns to the jousting arena, where they will present exciting shows featuring amazing trick riding, thrilling combat, and jousting! Don't miss them at 12pm, 3pm, & 6pm! 6pm show is rated PG.
http://www.debraceyproductions.com/

Digger Plotts: Gravedigger/Sin Eater

Digger Plotts, gravedigger and Sin Eater, will be in Revel Grove all season. Digger is always available for a chat. You can find him in the pathways of the village,
https://www.oddots.com/

Dinty the Moor: Magic Circle #1

No huge distances. No large boxes. No flashy assistants. Just pure sleight-of-hand, virtually under your nose. This is “Magic Circle #1”—Dinty The Moor’s close-up magic show. Diego Natividad de la Estafa (Brian Wendell Morton) has spent more than fifty years learning sleight-of-hand from top professional close-up magicians all over the world, and he and his special guests will demonstrate these ancient arcane effects for you! This is not a “kiddie show”—please, no unaccompanied children. This is serious astonishment performed as close as the other side of a table. Pure, sophisticated MAGIC.

Magic Circle #1 will be performed daily at Reveler's Bower (rated PG). Dinty will also do close-up twice daily at Boars Head tavern.

http://www.liesofbrian.com/

Don Quixote

Don Quixote, reimagined, combines the world-famous elements of Cervantes’ classic novel with an upbeat comic twist. Positive, energetic, and kid-accessible; he patrols the lanes protecting patrons from giants, dragons, and monsters. Don't be surprised if he enlists your help to serenade a lady, attack a monster disguised as a rock or tree, or perform a noble deed in the honor of Lady Dulcinea! Actor Sean Costas plays Don Quixote. Appearing all season.

https://hollywoodtogo.com/

Woman in green costume, pirate holding small skull

Famous Death Scenes with NoBeard & Gwendolyn

Matthew Pauli, Nicole Skelly. Festival regulars Captain Nobeard and Gwendolyn team up for an utterly ridiculous and randomly dynamic show featuring the ostentatious pretension of Shakespeare, the chaotic thrill of sword fighting, and the over-acted anguish of death. It's Shakespeare as you've never seen it before. Find out why! Twice daily at the Lyric Stage.
https://www.facebook.com/GwendolynShow

Men in Renaissance costumes performing at reunion

Fight School!

Special performance for the Festival's 50th season!

Step back into the chaos where it all began.

For one weekend only, Fight School’s 25th Class Reunion Show brings the original class back together for one dangerously ridiculous lesson in swordplay and poor decision-making at slow speed and perhaps even slower speed…

The Boys of Fight School return to the Blackfriar’s Stage—where it all began—for one show each day, as the full team of Nymblewyke, Cap’t Romero, Dash Rippington, and Hamish Stuart make their long-awaited return. Expect audience mayhem, flashing blades, zero signs of maturity… and perhaps a few familiar faces dropping in to join the fray. Opening Weekend only.

Miss it, and you fail the class.

Fools Named 'O' and La!La!

Mark Jaster- A Fool named "O", Sabrina Mandell as La!La! Family-friendly physical antics and classic knock-about comedy. "O" and his partner, "LaLa" mix classic routines and new material again this year as they have since 2005. At the Lyric Stage. www.happenstancetheater.com photo by Lisa Julia

Ginger Whimsey

Ginger Whimsy is a multi-talented actress, visual artist, performer, professional artist model, and living statue who’s experience spans over 3 decades. Visit with Ginger in the pathways, from 9/12 - 10/25. Photo by Bobby Smith.

https://www.facebook.com/gingerwhims/

The Gwendolyn Show

Gwendolyn Steele (Nicole Skelly) is making her way in the world solo. What kind of trouble can she get into? Join in as Gwendolyn explores life, the universe, and how to get a date! At the Lyric Stage and in the pathways.
https://www.facebook.com/GwendolynShow/

Happy Theatre: I Dream of Peace (9/6 - 9/7)

Happy Theater: I Dream of Peace. An Immersive Storytelling Show

The story is about Finding your Peace, Letting Go, Freedom and Openness to change, and Being Truly Alive. This is a 5 minute experience for a very small audience - one-on-one or family/friends group of two or three people. Audience joins the actor under a big ribbon umbrella, where they are gently invited into a story of a wise old wizard and a traveler who seeks the magic wisdom.

Created and performed by Natasha Mirny. Performing on September 12,13 & October 10,11. In the pathways.
https://happytheater.com/

Photo by Fima Furman.

Happy Theater: NEST

NEST: A Multi-lingual Story for children by Happy Theater

Special guest for Children's Weekend, August 29 & 30.

Nestled in a tree, an egg is tenderly kept warm, until a charming baby bird emerges. A forest fairy feeds and nurtures the baby bird, and together, they set off on a voyage of growth and discovery — learning to fly, feeling the sunshine and the rain, meeting butterflies, and tasting berries! The audience learns alongside them about the changing seasons, the life cycle of a bird, and the profound experience of being a caregiver.

Live music and interactive play help bring this heartwarming story to life. Join the baby bird in discovering the joy of being together and caring for someone you love!

This gentle, colorful show includes a celebration of languages, introducing numbers 1-2-3-4 and simple words like Nest, Chick, Bird, and Butterfly in English, French, Spanish, and Russian! The audience will even be invited to share a few words in other languages they know.All ages welcome, especially enjoyed by ages 1 - 7. Hand puppetry and live music.

https://happytheater.com/nest/

Performer in red costume, man kissing hand

Heart and Hazard

NEW THIS SEASON!

Heart is also known to MDRF audiences as Martika with her one woman stunt show. Hazard has performed coast to coast performing feats of strength and dexterity.

Together, Heart and Hazard have over 36 years of stage experience. They take the audience on a journey through some of their death-defying stunts, while incorporating uplifting messages. With teamwork and trust, anything is achievable!

Performing 9/5 - 9/13 at the Fortune Stage.

https://themartikashow.com/

Two performers in white robes with straw hats

Hey Nunnie Nunnie

Special one weekend only!

Peals of laughter ring like convent bells as the unconventional Mother Redempta and the mischevious ukele-wielding Sister Philomena Claire take the stage in a dazzling display of improvisational and comedic escapades. Cracking jokes, singing songs, and "counseling" audience members, these two larger than life characters create an environment of hilarity that is sure to please.

Join Hey Nunnie Nunnie as they return to Revel Grove to help celebrate our 50th season! September 26th & 27th at the Globe Theatre.
https://www.facebook.com/heynunnienunnie

Hilby, the skinny German juggle boy

Best described as a show without boundaries, Hilby is the living proof that being German doesn’t mean you can’t be funny. Hilby is an expert in juggling all sorts of objects and subjects. He also is amazing in countless circus and variety skills such as unicycling, balance stunts and more. This season see Hilby at the Blackfriars Theatre 10/10 - 10/25!
https://www.hilby.net/

Two Renaissance actors performing for audience outdoors

Hunters of the Unruly Dead

Charles Boyington, Steven Kirkpatrick

The Hunters of the Unruly Dead investigate the science and superstitious on topics Heavenly and Worldly.

TUDOR MAGES (Tudor Magic)
Join Heinrich Agrippa and Thomas Bodley as they delve into the world of Tudor magic. What is magic in the Renaissance time period? Heinrich and Thomas explore divination, astrology, alchemy, and necromancy in this interactive show, with time for Q&A from the audience.

TUDOR GHOSTS
"Angels, and ministers of grace, defend us!

I have heard (but not believ'd) the spirits of the dead
May walk again..."

Join the Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa and his assistant Thomas Bodley as they explore the Tudor theology of ghosts, the creepy signs of ghostly presence, the proper response to a spectre's visitation, as well as tales of a few famous Tudor-era hauntings. You may also get to play a ghost yourself in an interactive scene. Be warned.

Shows performed during the month of October at the Gatehouse Stage. Visit with them in the pathways of Revel Grove as well.

Photo by Liquid Lindy Photography

Inquisitive Corvids

In Old Norse mythology Odin had two ravens named Huginn & Muninn (Thought & Memory) who were tasked each day to fly around Midgard (Earth) collecting information to bring back to Odin. This pair of Inquisitive Corvids is in Revel Grove collecting random facts and information to jot in their notebooks to complete their task. Special guests on Myth & magic weekend, September 12th & 13th. And the Corvids return on October 3rd & 4th.
https://dollzentertainment.com/

Performer juggling bottles, balancing one on forehead

Jacob D'Eustachio

Comedy, juggling, sword swallowing, and mayhem at its finest! The Lord of the Sword – known throughout as the boldest, knife juggler and sword swallower, in the land…just so happens to be out for the day. But don’t worry. His trusty fool will do anything to keep the show going, and save his Lord’s reputation. Will he charm the townsfolk (that’s you) and keep the Lord’s show (and reputation) alive – or will surprises be afoot?

Jacob’s thrilled to bring his world class juggling to you-but this time with a story driven twist.

Performing 8/29 - 10/11 at the Lyric Stage.
https://www.jacobde.com/

Jacques Ze Whipper

Dashing Danger With A French Twist!

Tik Tok sensation Jacques Ze Whipper will perform for two weekends this season. 8/29 - 9/7. Don't miss him!

https://www.jackthewhipper.com/

A Klasse Akte

Tony Korol-Evans, Mark Allen

A Klasse Akte brings historical information to you in fun and fascinating shows!

Cakes & Ale
Mistress Cecily Clack and Master Arnold Conner present a humorous but educational take on period dishes and drinks as well as the habits of consumption that will tantalize the tastebuds of even the most discerning palate. You can take home the receipts (recipes) as each week features a different meal and drink pairings!

The Conner & the Alewife
What exactly are an Ale Conner and an Alewife? Join Master Arnold Conner (THE Ale Conner for all of Oxfordshire) and Revel Grove’s own Mistress Cecily Clack (Ickford’s Alewife Extraordinaire) for this amusing explanation of two very important 16^th century occupations. If you have ever wanted to know why anyone would wear leather breeches in the summer, how long it takes to properly test an ale, why alewives wear pointy hats, or any number of other unusual facts about ale and beer in the Tudor age, come learn about it from the people who make it and test it.

Casks & Flasks
Take a rollicking romp through alcohols of the age as Ale Conner Arnold and Alewife Cecily explain their finer and not so fine points. Join Mistress Cecily Clack and Master Arnold Conner as they discuss ale, cider, mead, wine, brandy, whisky, rum, gin, and happy accidents that create specialty drinks through story and song. Each weekend will focus on a different alcohol to provide an in-depth look at the boozy options of the 16^th century.

https://www.facebook.com/aklasseakte/

Knightwings Birds of Prey

Knightwings Birds of Prey is a traveling free flight Birds of Prey show that has been entertaining and educating thousands of people for over 20 years. Master Falconer Ash Cary also operates a 501c3 non-profit conservation organization called One World Raptor Conservancy which operates on three continents. See the birds up close at the Birds of Prey Mews, located near the joust field and Dragon's Lair pub. And 3 times a day enjoy performances. Birds of Prey shows at the Joust Field and History of Falconry at at Blackfriar's Theatre.

Please note: schedule of shows subject to change due to weather conditions.

https://oneworldraptor.org/

Les S Moore: Oops! All Danger

In his brand new show, determined Danger Artist Les S. Moore playfully reveals the hidden truths of the Danger Show, while dancing on the razor’s edge of risk. But as the stakes rise, so do the chances of something going horribly, or hilariously, wrong. Moore laughter, Moore danger, Les S. Moore! 9/12 - 9/27 at the Gatehouse Stage.

https://www.lessmoore.com/

Les S. Moore Will Steal Your Stuff

Making the world a better place, 20 court-ordered minutes at a time. Reformed pickpocket, Les S. Moore reveals the insider tricks dippers use to steal your things, without you even knowing. Les is one of the world’s top stage pickpockets, can perfectly fold a fitted sheet, invented gravity, and is a prolific practitioner of prevarication. For more surprises, for more laughs, Les S. Moore. Fortune Stage.
https://www.lessmoore.com/

The London Broil Show

The Boys are Back!
Join Matt, AJ, and Élan for fantastical shows of great comedy and amazing juggling. For three weekends only, 9/12 - 9/27 at the Royal Fox Theatre.
https://www.facebook.com/TheLondonBroilShow

Lancelot the Bald

Impossible to ignore, Lancelot produces a cacophony of sounds as he plays with a variety of unusual and often dangerous objects. His commanding presence will keep you on the edge of your seat whilst he balances at a knife’s edge, a funambulist doing funny things. Expect some good-hearted audience participation from this noble English trickster as he tells an epic saga of Viking discovery.

Lancelot (Guy Collins) returns to Revel Grove in celebration of the Festival's 50th season. Don't miss him - one weekend only at Blackfriars Theatre. 10/3,4.

http://www.groovyguyshow

Costumed performer entertaining children at Renaissance fair

Lucy Lockett

Lucy Lockett, tale-spinner, builds original fairy tales with children and adults alike! If you see her and her six-sided die, ask her to improvize a story with you! Lucy (Stephanie Phelan) performing October 3rd and 4th only.

Martika: One Woman Stunt Show

Martika graces the audience with her witty humor and playful charm. Don't let this fool you! She is a traveling pirate who takes the audience on a journey through some of her death-defying adventures. Martika entertains with barbed wire hula hooping, human cutting board, swallowing swords and more. Martika is also known for incorporating informative and uplifting messages into her performance. No matter how terrifying a goal may be, it is achievable. The show is family friendly with crowd interaction in mind. Her spectacular show will make the audience laugh and leave them asking, "HOW DID SHE DO THAT? I want to see more!" 9/19 - 10/4 on the Fortune Stage.
https://themartikashow.com/

Midwife Crisis

Are you ready to experience childbirth like NEVER before? Brace yourselves for "Midwife Crisis," where comedy and 'child-rearing' collide in the most hilarious way possible!

Led by the uproariously funny Midwife Blair Hoskins, this show is bursting with whimsy, adult subject matter, onions, and even iambic pentameter. Expect the unexpected as Blair delivers her 'unconventional' teachings on parenthood. Whether you're an aspiring parent or just looking for a good laugh, this show is a must-see!” Rated PG-13. All season at the Gatehouse Stage.

The Militia Combat Demonstrations

The Militia presents three weapons demonstrations daily at the Grounds For Defense (near the Chapel).

Photo by Regan Avery

Militia Mayhem!

What's Nymblewyke and the militia got now? Crossbows, trebuchet, catapults...oh my! See lots of toys for big girls and boys. 11:15am daily at the Jousting Arena.

Photo by Ron Nicholson

Militia Tent

James Frank, manager. Rick Herlinger, Rob Slater & Fight Corps. Have you ever wondered what skills it takes to outfit the King's army? How you make bows and arrows? Interested in seeing demonstrations of metal, leather and wood working? Visit the village Militia tent, near the Jousting arena, and see these skills demonstrated. Weapons makers and fight combatants will be available to answer your questions and tell you more about weapons and life in the Tudor times.
The Militia tent is open daily from 10am - 6pm.

Mustardseed & Fractured Fairy's Tales

Join Mustardseed once a day as she shares some of your favorite fables…with a twist! With your help and laughter this not so little fairy will guide you through the stories you loved as a child…well, almost! Folk tales never sounded quite like this! At the Cottage Stage. And you can also find Mustardseed in the pathways of the village. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063497015401&show_switched_toast=true

Four costumed improv performers in fantasy-themed poster

Off The Cuff

NEW THIS YEAR!
Off the Cuff is an improvised, hip-hop experience fused with the wit and Elizabethan English of the Renaissance! With no two shows being alike, watch this merry party of "heroes" sing, rap, and flyt their way through your suggestions. Performing all weekends in October. At the Boar's Head & Globe Theatre.

Out of the Box Mimes

Cybele Pomeroy, Erin Tarpley, Talis Tighe, Jeremiah Pollack, Liz Richardson. What’s going on? Silent shenanigans in the street! Whether on stilts, blowing fabulous bubbles or fooling around on the ground, Out of the Box is a visual treat. They are sure to delight your eyes and warm your heart in the pathways of Revel Grove. 9/12 - 10/25.

Paolo Garbanzo

Paul Hudert, also known as Paolo Garbanzo, has performed for crowds all over the US and Europe. He's been a member The Flying Karamazov Brothers, earned the Lifetime Achievement Award by the International Juggling Association, and performs his shows in three languages. In 2007 he won the International Jester Competition, making him an official Jester of Muncaster Castle in England, and the first American in history to be an official Jester of an English castle. Don't miss his show at the Royal Fox Theatre!

https://www.garbanzojuggling.com/

Pirate Escape

Pirates are the scourge of the seven seas and the law is clear that they must be hunted down and captured. It’s also clear that we all want to see them escape, to sail again. Horatio Bachsjumpor, aka Captain Nobeard (Matthew Pauli), is always prepared in case he is captured. He will be shackled, chained, and secured in a crate. Can he slip his bonds and escape? at the Lyric Stage. https://matthewpauli.wordpress.com/

Puke & Snot

Mark Sieve, Scott Jorgenson. One of the longest running and most successful acts in the history of renaissance festivals. Intense wit, flashy swordfights, and organic vegetables: the laughs come in waves, often at racetrack speed. Their comedy owes as much to Abbott and Costello as it does to Avon’s Bard. A gallant romp of hysterical fun. 10/17 - 10/25 at the Royal Fox Theatre. pukeandsnot.com

Pyramus and Thisbe

In honor of Duke Theseus' wedding day, the Rude Mechanicals perform their (unintentional) comic play Pyramus and Thisbe.

Join us for an adapted version of Act V of A Midsummer Night's Dream for this comic classic!

Performed once daily at the Globe. Directed by Steven Kirkpatrick. Running time: 25 minutes.

CAST:
Theseus (Brian Gilbert), Hippolyta (Candace-Omnira), Philostrate (Amber Gibson), Bottom/Pyramus (Bobby Henneberg), Flute/Thisbe (Keegan Cassady), Snout/Wall (Josie Morgan), Starveling/Moonshine (Judy Streeb), Snug/Lion (Laurie Simonds), Quince/Prologue (Katie Rey Bogdan)

Elderly clown with ruffled collar and glasses.

Queen Mum

NEW!

The Queen Mum: she’s escaped the elder shelter and roams the realm with a sharp wit, a sharper tongue, and eyes that miss nothing. She holds no real power—yet still “rules” in her own dottering mind with equal parts delusion and wicked wisdom. Seek her out for laughter—or a moment of unexpected insight. You’ll leave lighter than you arrived… and deliciously unsettled.

Brought to life by Mark D. Lakowske—award-winning Renaissance performer, actor, designer, costumer, & director with over three decades of experience; former owner/executive director of Newbourne Village Renaissance Festival; professional clown and Santa; certified therapeutic coach, master hypnotherapist, and comedy hypnotist behind Master Ticktock's T.Y.M.E. Machine. Follow Queen Mum at https://www.facebook.com/HRMQueenMum or learn more about Mark at https://mdlhealingartistry.com

Performing in the pathways from August 29th – September 13th.

The Queen of Hoops

Erin Jeannier is a performer with many circus skills: aerial silks, stilts, fire, and hoop artistry. She'll perform her hoop work in the pathways and stages here in Revel Grove, twirling as many as six hoops at a time on her body, feet, and even her nose! See her at the Globe Theatre.

Smiling couple in medieval costumes outdoors

Robin Hood & Maid Marian

Festival faves Robin Hood and Maid Marian return to Revel Grove to help celebrate our 50^th season. Join Robin Hood (Patrick Franz) and Maid Marian (JoNell Franz) for magical storytelling! Six members of the audience star in a high-energy, interactive retelling of "The Tales of Robin Hood"! Heroes, villains, cheering, screaming, and hilarity ensues!

August 29^th & 30^th at the Fortune Stage,

https://patfranz.com

Reveler's Bower (Living History)

Join Cecily Clack, Arnold Connor, Robert Cooper, Rosamund Wooler, and William Tanner at Reveler's Bower where you can see spinning, weaving, leatherworking and other crafts in action! Learn about period food, dress, and games. There is always something happening at the Bower! The Living History crafts can be seen from 10am - 5pm at the Bower.

Photo by Kevin Hedgecock

A Royal Court show: Recollections May Vary

Written by Carolyn Spedden.

King Henry VIII and his new bride, Anne of Cleves, are in the village of Revel Grove to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Harvest Festival. On the surface, it seems the new marriage is going well. But as various villagers and courtiers retell the first meeting between the king and the new queen, it seems recollections vary and perhaps all is not what it seems! Performed daily at the Globe.

Photo by Keith Heffner.

Royal Event: The Closing Ceremony and Royal Farewell

Join the villagers at 6:55pm at the gate to bid the King and Royal Court a final farewell in this brief official closing ceremony.

Two smiling women in Renaissance costumes with mugs

Royal Court Event: Royal Welcome

King Henry and Queen Anne are in the village to celebrate the 50th Harvest Festival in Revel Grove. Harvest fairs, or hiring fairs, were given to towns by Royal Charter. It is time for the charter to be renewed and several villages in Oxfordshire have been vying for the honor. Including the rival village of Tiddington! Will Revel Grove once again be awarded the honor?

You are cordially invited to celebrate 50 years of merriment in Revel Grove! Daily at the Globe Theatre.

Photo by Bobby Smith

Aristocratic women and maid in ornate room

The Seduced Countess by Molière

NEW!

The Seduced Countess (aka The Countess of Escarbagnas) is a one-act comedy by Molière that mocks the pretensions of provincial nobility. The Countess is an arrogant widow who returns from a brief trip to Paris and adopts ridiculous "Parisian" airs. A satire on social climbing and artifice in society.

This one-act comedy is performed daily at the Globe. Edited and adapted by Carolyn Spedden. Directed by Emily Dalton. Running time: approximately 20 minutes.

CAST:

The Countess (Stephanie Ichniowski), The Viscount (Jack Stone), Julia (Amanda Michaud), Mr. Thibaudier (Steven Hoochuk), Mr. Harpin (Shaan Sharma), Jeannot (Alex Ross), Andree (Anabel Milton), Criquet (Reed Sigmon).

Woman in ornate Renaissance costume waving

La Serenessima

New!

La Serenessima, Caterina, Dogaressa di Venezia is a not-so-serene pathway performer who is a one-woman dance party, horse race, and pasta distributor all in one! With quick wit, impastably bad puns, and her (hobby) horse Harry, she looks forward to engaging with patrons in Revel Grove. Performing in the pathways from September 19th to the 27th .

https://linktr.ee/La.Serenissima

Shakespeare Approves

Join your friendly, neighborhood Shakespeare – Renaissance Festival Awards winner Favorite Comedy Act (2021) & Favorite Child-Friendly Act (2018, 2019) – as he takes you on audience-interactive adventures full of merriment: sword fights, mistaken identities, star-cross’d lovers, flying implements of doom, musical numbers, being pursued by a bear, and …death by fluffy kittens! The Shakespearean adventures are zany performances shaped to be fun for everyone! 10/3-10/25 at the Gatehouse Stage.

https://www.shakespeareapproves.com/

Shakespeare's Skum

Featuring Carolyn Spedden, who is the writer and director too, Liz Demery, Stephon Walker, Steve Wannall.

“Absolute genius parodies of the Bard’s work” - City Paper. Taking the text from the Bard's greatest plays and adding their own special brand of humor, these thirty minutes adaptations are funny to those unfamiliar with Shakespeare and even funnier to those who know the plays.

This year the Skummers present:
1:30pm: Antony & Cleopatra: As the Nile Flows.
3pm: Leave it to Hamlet.

At the Globe.

https://www.facebook.com/shakespearesskum/

Sir Real, the Puppet Man

Gabriel Quirk. Gabriel Q is a puppeteer, costume and puppet builder and a variety performer. He has performed for 25 years at major Renaissance Festivals across the country. He has also performed at the Kim Tom Clown festival in Shaghai, China in 2008. For the past 10 years Gabriel has built and performed large puppets for the krewes of Orpheus and Muses for the Marti Gras parades in New Orleans. Performing 9/12 - 10/25.

http://gabrielq.com/

Storyteller reading to audience on outdoor stage

StoryTyme in the Grove, hosted by Page After Page

Special stories for young lads and lasses at the Cottage Stage! Presented by Page After Page. For Ages 2-6 years old with caring adult.

On select weekends, MDRF and Page After Page welcome back the Anne Arundel County Public Library for StoryTyme in the Grove. Bring your Wee Bairns to the Cottage Stage at 11:30 to participate in stories, songs, and rhymes designed to entertain and engage their imaginations.

Performance dates: Saturdays August 29th; October 3, 10, 17 & 24.

STREETspeare

Artistic Director: Carolyn Spedden, who curates the program.

All the world’s a stage, and that is true in Revel Grove. The popular STREETspeare program is back presenting new scenes from Shakespeare and period playwrights. 17 scenes in all. This year the tracks are:

Shakespeare Apocrypha. Four scenes from plays attributed to Shakespeare.
Swords of Shakespeare. Concept and edits by Dan O’Driscoll. Four scenes from famous Shakespeare plays where stage combat is described. But in our presentation the audience gets to see the action!
Scene Stealers. Four scenes involving secondary characters who steal the show!
Poetmachia (aka The Poet’s War or the War between the Theatre.) Scenes from plays by Jonson, Dekker, and Marston- who took turns satirizing the other on-stage. Revenge! Cattiness! Meow!
And The Dance Company of Revel Grove presents a scene from Romeo and Juliet.

Brevity is the soul of wit, so these scenes are all between 5-15 minutes in length. Stop by Guest Services (near the front gate) to get the listing of the time and location of the scenes. Theatre fans can even get a game card which will be stamped when you see a scene to prove you are a sophisticated smarty-pants! It's a wonderful way to visit with favorite characters and scenes, or a great introduction to comic or dramatic plays you may not yet know! Note: viewing all scenes can only be done over 2 days.

Swashbubble

NEW!

Swashbubble isn’t like other pirates! Her ammunition is soapy water and her gold is the smiles she gets when she performs! Her energy and commitment to filling the skies with bubbles is unmatched. Trained in the ways of the bubble sword, bubble gun, big bubble wand, and powerful fairy magic, Swashbubble slices and dices bubbles with whimsy and precision! She creates real magic when she makes little bubbles, big bubbles, and little bubbles inside of big bubbles! Her treasure trove of tricks will make you say,“ooooo,” “aaahh,” and maybe even, “argh! Visit with Swashbubble in the pathways on Pirate Weekend only, September 19th & 20th.

Topsy Turvy Show

Lily Hufnagel and Amanda Renaud return with The Topsy Turvy Show - a performance of acrobatics, circus arts, people balancing and more! At the Fortune Stage! Andrew Lesny Photography

https://www.topsyturvyshow.com/

Temperance Belowe

Temperance Belowe, the Renaissance Era’s least favorite Puritan, is on a holier-than-thou mission to clean the world of sin, starting with the most frivolously FUN den of iniquity in all the world: the Renaissance Faire!

During a faire day, Temperance (Darien DeMaria) scolds guests for such sins as smiling, laughing, eating delicious food, flaunting their best garb, and generally enjoying themselves. Temperance will be in Revel Grove 9/26 - 10/25.

https://www.facebook.com/TemperanceBelowe/

The Three Musketeers

NEW!

Based on the novel written by Alexandre Dumas, we follow the adventures of a young man named d'Artagnan (Lilly Burchfield)* as he travels to Paris in hopes of joining the Musketeers of the Guard.

In this scene, we see the beginning of the great adventure as d'Artagnan meet Athos (Emily Karol), Portos (Erin Branigan), and Aramis (Kaitlyn Fowler) and the three musketeers become four - all for one, and one for all!

This Company of Women one-act is approximately 20 minutes in length and performed once daily at The Globe. Edited and adapted by Emily Karol, directed by Tony Korol-Evans.

*The role of d’Artagnan will be played by Layali Aljirafi on October 17th & 24th

Three costumed Renaissance performers posing with swords

Vixens En Garde

The Vixens swashbuckle their way through Shakespeare using daring swordplay, witty repartee, and a naughty sense of humor—all in an interactive, fast-paced show that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Performing at the Market Stage from 8/29 - 9/20.

https://www.vixensengarde.com/

Village Court

Presided over by the Justice of the Peace of Oxfordshire, Reginald Waldegrave, this show features unique and completely improvised trials each weekend. The subject matter of this kangaroo court is suggested by the audience. Want to file suit against your partner for leaving the toilet seat up? They’ve tried it. How about suing bees for stinging your dog? They’ve tried that too. Are we allowed to touch art? They’ve passed judgment on that as well, with a verdict that may surprise you. At the Gatehouse Stage