I've had that same thought for a few years now... ok, more than a few. I don't mind the *occasional* toss-in of something modern, especially if it's either minor or semi-hidden. But there are some acts... and individuals...
I'd prefer a mediocre performer/act who stays in period and is at least moderately entertaining to an amazing performer/act who couldn't care less about even trying to have a period sounding act every time (at faire... outside of faire, obviously I'd prefer the other way around).
And no, I don't go so far as to expect period instruments - those things are darned expensive, and I can see going for something that looks within the realm of "could be"... but the lyrics and tunes on the other hand... (unfortunately, this means I'm rather torn at times at faire... knowing and liking certain performers, but being driven insane by their acts, y'know?)
I know what you mean! I love Renaissance festivals because of the emphasis on the Renaissance.
I know there are limits on what you can do at a venue like a renn faire, but there are some things that you really should still be able to do. And avoiding modern references because they're quick jokes should be one of them.
(That said, I understand why the modern references work - you get the "Renaissance" environment, costumes, "accents" and then have the contrast of modern reference and that dichotomy causes humor.)
Oh, I agree! I wonder what those of us who come as patrons can do to positively encourage the more authentic aspects while downplaying or not encouraging the inaccuracies. Or even if we should do anything at all.
I know from my historical reenacting how amazing and magical it can be when it feels - usually just for half a moment - like you've stepped back in time. True, a Renn Faire isn't a reenactment and the audience and focus are different, but it would be nice to feel that more at faire. What do you think?
(PS - if it's ok with you, i-kissandra, I'd like to post a variation on this comment in my journal. I don't want to step on toes, though, since I see that thought this was a locked post.)
Comments 8
I'd prefer a mediocre performer/act who stays in period and is at least moderately entertaining to an amazing performer/act who couldn't care less about even trying to have a period sounding act every time (at faire... outside of faire, obviously I'd prefer the other way around).
And no, I don't go so far as to expect period instruments - those things are darned expensive, and I can see going for something that looks within the realm of "could be"... but the lyrics and tunes on the other hand... (unfortunately, this means I'm rather torn at times at faire... knowing and liking certain performers, but being driven insane by their acts, y'know?)
Reply
I know there are limits on what you can do at a venue like a renn faire, but there are some things that you really should still be able to do. And avoiding modern references because they're quick jokes should be one of them.
(That said, I understand why the modern references work - you get the "Renaissance" environment, costumes, "accents" and then have the contrast of modern reference and that dichotomy causes humor.)
Reply
Reply
I know from my historical reenacting how amazing and magical it can be when it feels - usually just for half a moment - like you've stepped back in time. True, a Renn Faire isn't a reenactment and the audience and focus are different, but it would be nice to feel that more at faire. What do you think?
(PS - if it's ok with you, i-kissandra, I'd like to post a variation on this comment in my journal. I don't want to step on toes, though, since I see that thought this was a locked post.)
Reply
Reply
Leave a comment