Hear Yea, Hear Yea! Let it be known that Ryde East Community Association (RECA) are facilitating a brand new community event; with fun and frivolity in mind, The Isle of Wight Renaissance Festival is set to get heads turning and hats tipped as the Renaissance period makes a literal come-back in May 2009.
After a successful public meeting held on 4th December, a number of Isle of Wight community groups and individuals, have come together to share their skills and expertise with others, in a celebration of community spirit, to produce a one day festival which will include; drama, music, art, dance and historical re-enactment.
The festival will raise money for four local charities and will take place on 3rd 24th May 2009.
The British Renaissance period (very loosely known as the ‘Tudor’ period – history buffs, please don’t shout, but it’s the easiest way to explain!) was all about discovery; embracing new ways of thinking and learning, with a special focus on the arts and culture. This new philosophy acted as a bridge between the Middle Ages and the modern era and with this in mind, the idea of a community Renaissance Festival was born; an opportunity for Islanders to work together, learn new skills and produce something spectacular for the greater benefit of others.
The festival itself will take the form of a Renaissance era village. A market with traditional craft, a Kids Kingdom, a Kings Court, an Enchanted Realm and a special ‘Renaissance Extreme Sports’ arena to boot! There will be lots of fancy dress, historical drama, Blackadderesque dramatics, dancing, music and general revelry done ye olde stylee, and of course, all washed down with a yard or two of ale.
A Steering Group for the festival is currently being formed, and this group is looking for people with all sorts of skills and abilities to get on board and help make this charity event a memorable one! So if you are a dab hand with a paintbrush or you’re part of a group that would like to dress up and act as a Renaissance character for the day, or indeed, you can offer any other skills or experience you might think would benefit this exciting event – please let us know!
Interesting fact: 2009 will be the 500th Anniversary of Henry VIII’s accession to the throne.
Have a look at the website (it is still under construction, but is being added to daily!!) which will give you a feel for what it’s all about: and if you want to know more, or you fancy getting involved, please get in contact: [email protected] or telephone: (01983) 611913
