|
Post by Sir Black Fox on Dec 20, 2008 23:16:37 GMT -5
I happened to catch sight of this at the bottom of the homepage at www.rennfest.com (MDRF's Official Site): Patrons are welcomed to wear costumes suitable for a family-friendly atmosphere to get into the spirit of the event! All performers are paid by the King's purse and scheduled by the Artistic Director. No uncontracted performances are permitted.I wonder what constitutes a "performance" and what's the touchstone for being suitable for "family-friendly." I know in a couple of families, who are very friendly, that could open up a bigger can of worms than what this rule intends to contain (so to speak). What say ye?
|
|
anonnymouseNoMore
Ren Geek
HRH King Henry VIII
That's a really ugly skinny me in the avatar!
Posts: 71
|
Post by anonnymouseNoMore on Dec 21, 2008 11:53:05 GMT -5
I happened to catch sight of this at the bottom of the homepage at www.rennfest.com (MDRF's Official Site): Patrons are welcomed to wear costumes suitable for a family-friendly atmosphere to get into the spirit of the event! All performers are paid by the King's purse and scheduled by the Artistic Director. No uncontracted performances are permitted.I wonder what constitutes a "performance" and what's the touchstone for being suitable for "family-friendly." I know in a couple of families, who are very friendly, that could open up a bigger can of worms than what this rule intends to contain (so to speak). What say ye? LOL Steve I'm not speaking on behalf of management here --- but I'm hoping those families you speak of understand that the spirit of that statement applies to ALL families collectively, not just theirs. It's not rocket science - if they can't understand how their too-revealing costume would upset Mr. & Mrs. John Q. ParentsOfKids --- they will be cordially invited by our cheery security staff to go experiment with boundary issues elsewhere. I remember taking a break behind the jousting arena a few years back, chatting with the security guard. And a potential patron walked by wearing what can best be described as ... 2 straps. One strap dangling down the front, barely covering ... um, stuff. And another strap down the back which also covered precisely jack. And that's it. I do not know if he was wearing a thong under this masterpiece; to be frank, I had zero interest in looking closer to find out. Security guard laughed and said "Aw, HELL, no", and grabbed his walkie-talkie and took off. This guy never made it as far as the ticket window. "Performance" --- yeah, that's a bit trickier, considering stuff that goes on. However, I'm positive management has a solid lock on when this particular line is crossed. For instance, they're not going to be shutting down the occasional wenching and roguing, as long as its kept out of the public limelight and remains generally in the G-to-PG realm. (Big kudos to you guys for providing the "security circle", by the way.) At the same time, if you're attempting to perform as if you are an official MDRF act --- forcibly diverting patrons' attention to you, putting on elaborate shows or street bits, setting up signs or props, passing the hat, etc. --- I think we as adults can rise above nitpicking at the actual verbage, and agree on the spirit of that statement. If you're giving the impression that you've got management's stamp of approval ... that would be a no-no. (PARTICULARLY if you're imbibed or imbibing.) We cast members are on the lookout for stuff like that all the time. Word is quickly passed to management; and dependent on the circumstances, they will most likely shut you down. Now before anyone squawks ... there's both a professional and INTENSELY personal side to all this. The professional: if you haven't auditioned and been contracted by MDRF, then you are Sarah Palin gone rogue. You are unaware of MDRF rules and procedures, they are unaware of your "show's" content and they cannot confirm that your act is family-friendly. Keep in mind, they are constantly walking that fine line between keeping their more "adult" patrons happy, while not alienating the people that spend the most money and keep MDRF afloat financially: the families. I think MDRF does a splendid job of walking that line. The personal: I hope I'm speaking on behalf of all performers when I say this ... we've paid our dues. We have various fine shows that have been developed through months and years of rehearsals, a lot of trial and error and heartbreak and triumph. Our performances - whether it be court stuff, village shows, or stage acts - have gone through alot of bumps and bruises before arriving at the polished piece you see. So when Bobby Threesheets comes and sees what we do and decides - "hey, I'm in garb, I'm talented, I can do what they do, let's rock this place" ... well, frankly, it pisses me off. I've gone through intense training to get here. They think they can do the same if they're wearing a silly hat? I'd like them to meet my friend from the Chinese Sp00nerism Society. His name is Yuk Foo. Case in point: the Jack Sparrows. Countless pub sing jokes aside, I've got nothing against them personally. If they think its a great way to get chicks, more power to em. However, two years ago I came across one of them kneeling in front of a child and his father. The child was entranced, the father was barely paying attention, and the place was packed. Jack was reaching out, talking to the kid, touching the kid --- while holding a beer in a plastic cup. He was obviously drunk. I had an extremely unprofessional moment upon seeing this; very nearly dropped character. Chewed this guy a new one. In addition, took it straight to management; they agreed and moved. I've seen this guy in years since; he steers clear of families. Think about it. You're a parent bringing your kid to fest. You come across this scene. You don't know any better - you understandably assume this guy is officially employed by MDRF. What's your reaction? What do you tell your friends, other parents of small kids? And what sort of reputation does MDRF end up with? Again, not speaking for management. And its not the first time this subject has been discussed ... nor will it be the last. Steve, I don't know if that statement you saw is new to the website or not. However, one thing I can tell you is - even if the statement itself is new, it doesn't represent any sort of policy shift on MDRF'S part. That has ALWAYS been their mindset, and its the best mindset for all of us in terms of keeping MDRF healthy and prosperous for years to come.
|
|
|
Post by Sir Black Fox on Dec 21, 2008 12:08:43 GMT -5
Excellent points, all of them and well-made. I'm also not sure if that rule was on the website prior to me noticing it the other day and I'm glad it's there. We're all just guests at MDRF. . . it's "their sandbox" in which we play. . . and pay to do so.
Leave the entertaining to the professionals, says I . . . and use just a bit of common sense when garbing up.
|
|
|
Post by bubblewright on Jan 9, 2009 19:24:36 GMT -5
"No uncontracted performances are permitted." Back in 2005 when I had first built my "Renaissance Bubble Machine" I emailed MDRF asking if it would be OK to bring my machine on a given date. I explained what I do, that I knew not to do it near on going performances, vendor's booths or food areas, and included a link that showed the machine. I mentioned that this was a hobby, not a business; I did not solicit business, and did not ask for or accept donations. When I did not hear from from them, I took that as assent . My actual goal in coming to the Festival was to meet Shane Odem, the official bubbler of MDRF. On the appointed day I drove down from Delaware, assembled the machine and proceeded to make bubbles in the area outside the Gate. The general reaction of the crowd was of wonderment and joy. Once the gate was opened I made my way in and set up behind the fountain to pleasure the entering crowd. After about 20 minutes, a festival official and Shane Odem came up and asked me to stop. While they loved what I was doing, since I was not under contract, I had to remove the machine back to my van. The official apologized for not having gotten back to me. Shane walked me out to the van as all the while we talked bubbles. After stowing the machine, I was permitted to re-enter the Festival. I had no problem with the policy because I understand the need to control the entertainment in accord with the protocols set by the Faire as well as insurance issues and fairness to the official acting company. Before I go to any new venue, I ask ahead of time if it is permitted while explaining what it is I do. I am sensitive to the hired help. At one event, the management welcomed me (I asked on their Official Forum) but one of the acts vociferously objected to my presence so I gave that event a pass. Although the following article calls me a "Professional Bubble Maker" I am not... when they researched the article they found I'm mentioned with many of the Bubble Professionals (most of whom I know on a first name basis). Check out: renstorearticles.blogspot.com/2007/03/felix-cartagena-renaissance-bubble.html
|
|
|
Post by masterjames on Jan 14, 2009 23:14:30 GMT -5
Fred I couldn't agree more with each and every one of your points. As a cast member at VARF I know what you mean about not wanting anyone just coming in and thinking they can do this and setting up shop. My only concern, and I know you cannot speak for them, is that management sees it the same way you do. I know for a fact two years ago that a friend of mine was asked to leave the faire, not because he was trying to sell anything or because he was inappropriately dressed, or because he was doing shows or because he had beer with kids. No he was asked to leave the faire simply because the costume he chose to wear was very unique and drew a lot of attention to him. He was not actively seeking any recognition nor doing an act to draw attention to himself yet management deemed his garb "too popular" and therefore a detriment to the faire. Now how is that right? Somebody works hard to make a costume that is very appropriate for the faire, not lewd and all he is doing is standing around yet the faire tosses him because his costume is so good? Now fortunately they changed their tune last year and he was allowed back in with his costume but were is the line drawn and why makes no sense. I know nobody on here can answer this question but it certainly is something to think about.
|
|
|
Post by Fyreblaste on Mar 26, 2009 9:03:29 GMT -5
Fred You make many good points Many of the patrons assume if you are in Garb you are part of the show. Other than posing for an ocassional photo on request and giving direction to this place or that I make a point of directing people to the info booth or festival staff and when asked Who I'm supposed to be my reply is usually "just someone enjoying the faire"
there is no place that is entirely safe for a kid, parents have to watch them like a hawk. Truthfully they way the kids go at each other with those wood swords I'm more concerned over split heads than anything else,Still if you observe behavior that just isn't right you should notify faire staff or even a nearby shop keeper who can call security. Security does a heck of a job but they can't be everywhere at once.
BTW Im suprised that nothing has been added to the rules along the lines of; Only professional Snake charmers should handle Revel Grove snakes
|
|
|
Post by hugfairy on Mar 31, 2009 14:55:06 GMT -5
OK, throwing my two pennies in.
Back in the midwest, Bristol seemed to have lots of problems every year with playtron who seemed to think they were more part of faire then they were.
During the summers, there would be a post on the friends of faire board from management reminding the resulars that some people assume that everyone in garb works for faire, so if your wear garb, like it or not, you're representing faire, therefore, you're held to higher standards.
one of the biggest controversies that come to mind, (esp since I was involved with great conflict with this group) was a playton clique called the seahawks.
In 2006, Bristol had build a huge ship on the site. At the time I was in the cast as a servant in the queen's court. A group had formed within the guild to form a "queen's navy" to have storylines around this new ship.
Of corse, the "pirates" were just as excited about this ship and went around telling all danes that would listen that it was their ship.
Cast mebers got really fed up with the spotlight being taken. One cast member stepped in, and, without breaking charictor, explained that this was a navel ship, not a privateer ship. The pirants responded with "so? it's our ship! We're taking it over! Cause we're pirates, that's what we do!"
Now of corse there are approved patron things like wench walks, etc.
The year I worked security, I had management approuch me and point out a guy who was juggling. I was told to keep and eye on that guy as he had attracted a crowed watching him juggle glass balls. I was told that he could play all he wants, but if anyone tried to tip him, and he takes the money, then I was to bust him.
So in that sense it seems a patron can draw attention, but not pass the hat.
As far as a dress code, they need to spell it out for people. Things can be taken alot of ways.
I've had complains about garb being too skimpy. I usually brush it off as "if you don't like by cleavage, don't look"
If they accually spelled out guidelines as to what is appropriete. I.e.: a "three finger cleavage rule, mid-thigh skirt lenth rule, etc. Then there would be no question.
Otherwise people can take "street legal" at face value and say: as long as the "bits" are covered, you can't say anything.
*hugs*
K.J.
|
|
|
Post by Amras on Apr 7, 2009 12:01:11 GMT -5
Fred You make many good points Many of the patrons assume if you are in Garb you are part of the show. Other than posing for an ocassional photo on request and giving direction to this place or that I make a point of directing people to the info booth or festival staff and when asked Who I'm supposed to be my reply is usually "just someone enjoying the faire" BTW Im suprised that nothing has been added to the rules along the lines of; Only professional Snake charmers should handle Revel Grove snakes LOL! I'm 100% with Fyreblast here...When I'm in garb, I try to conduct myself in such a way that no discredit will be heaped on either this group or the faire itself. Helpful and courteous goes a long way...and everyone has a good time...plus, I make sure, when posing for the occasional picture or giving directions, that they are aware that I'm not "on staff", just enjoying myself. Honestly, I respect the job the performers do, day in and day out there in the Grove. Thanks for being there for us! But, and I say this with all affection, "Who'd want to [glow=red,2,300] work [/glow] there?" Love to all, and I'm just happy to be here...
|
|
messica
Mundane with Interest
Posts: 1
|
Post by messica on Apr 19, 2009 12:36:24 GMT -5
Just a side note... and quick question for everyone... I was also reading the bottom of the MDRF home page and noticed that is says that all the "real" employees there are required to wear a sash or armband of some sort to distinguish them from the playtrons. Is this a new policy, because I've never noticed this armband? With as often as I go, if I've never noticed it, it seems unlikely that a person who may only attend a few times a year would notice. How do you guys feel about this policy?
|
|
|
Post by Mathemactor on Apr 19, 2009 13:14:27 GMT -5
Just a side note... and quick question for everyone... I was also reading the bottom of the MDRF home page and noticed that is says that all the "real" employees there are required to wear a sash or armband of some sort to distinguish them from the playtrons. Is this a new policy, because I've never noticed this armband? With as often as I go, if I've never noticed it, it seems unlikely that a person who may only attend a few times a year would notice. How do you guys feel about this policy? I have no idea what you appear to be quoting as there is nothing on the home page nor any of the other pages that refers to ' "real" employees'. Now, there are several pages that are a bit out of date, for example, your can still find the list of White Hart performances from several years ago. And there was a time when performers wore ribboned badges, but we haven't for at least four years. All performers are paid and have been hired via auditions to assure a level of qualification and quality. We also do carry identification cards although not displayed on our costumes. Our rehearsal does include training in corporate policies, customer interaction and so forth.
|
|
|
Post by Sir Black Fox on Apr 20, 2009 10:11:05 GMT -5
the bottom of the MDRF home page and noticed that is says that all the "real" employees there are required to wear a sash or armband of some sort to distinguish them from the playtrons. I just checked m'self and the only notation on the bottom of the home page (http://www.rennfest.com) that would be similar is what I mentioned in the original post: Patrons are welcomed to wear costumes suitable for a family-friendly atmosphere to get into the spirit of the event! All performers are paid by the King's purse and scheduled by the Artistic Director. No uncontracted performances are permitted.In the past, cast members and performers in the past have worn badges of Tudor roses or knights helmets with ribbons from them . . but never arm bands that I have ever seen.
|
|
bigb
PLAYTRON!
Posts: 11
|
Post by bigb on Apr 21, 2009 9:37:00 GMT -5
I found this on the New to the Faire listing...
"Our performers all wear a ribboned badge, to distinguish them from costumed patrons."
I do remember seeing the badges and ribbons years ago, but hadn't really looked for them recently....
The Sash/armband of any sort sounds off anyway, anyone can wear one of any sort. It would have to be something one off that the general public couldn't get or it defeats the purpose of having them to begin with... Right?
|
|
|
Post by Mathemactor on Apr 21, 2009 11:16:42 GMT -5
I found this on the New to the Faire listing... "Our performers all wear a ribboned badge, to distinguish them from costumed patrons." I do remember seeing the badges and ribbons years ago, but hadn't really looked for them recently.... The Sash/armband of any sort sounds off anyway, anyone can wear one of any sort. It would have to be something one off that the general public couldn't get or it defeats the purpose of having them to begin with... Right? That "New to the Fair" page is one of the pages I mentioned as not having been updated in several years, so it is referring to something that has not been used for four years. I would certainly like to have the badges again---but that is for the Renaissance Festival to decide. No such badge is foolproof---there are some patrons who might decide to create counterfeit badges to wear after seeing what the official ones look like. Of course, that would be not unlike nonemployees wearing counterfeit identification badges in any business and should probably be dealt with in an appropriate way---I, for example, am not permitted to dress in red and beige, wear a false Target name badge, and start giving help and advice to customers in a Target store.
|
|
bigb
PLAYTRON!
Posts: 11
|
Post by bigb on Apr 21, 2009 12:06:23 GMT -5
Sorry, partial thoughts... the downside to playing at work and doing too many things at one time.... The part I deleted by accident said....
I do remember seeing the badges and ribbons years ago, but hadn't really looked for them recently.... <<but that would explain why I hadn't seen them.>>
I agree, one could forge a badge with ribbon and try to pass themsleves off as staff for what ever reasons and they should be dealt with.
|
|
|
Post by fillyfowler on Apr 21, 2009 12:07:16 GMT -5
I've actually challenged people to show me their faire ID if I see either a performer I don't recognize or in the case of last year we had two people enter the backstage area who acted suspiciously and left quickly when I asked for their ID. The ribbon badges were discontinued when several patrons started wearing similar badges.
|
|
|
Post by Sir Black Fox on Apr 21, 2009 18:28:17 GMT -5
I think if all the performers were chained to bright orange safety cones, there'd be no chance one could be mistaken. . . . and think of all the impromptu silliness of tripping over each other's chains with sharp and pokey objects! (cue insued hillarity)
|
|