You can also find that talented duo of "Pompadour and Melodio", the Minstrels of Mayhem-Ahem! (Photo, right). This act, which originated in Texas, is now accompanied by Craig of Farrington (center in photo). They perform both witty and romantic interpretations of a number of traditional ballads as well as performing their own inventive songs. This was one act I made a special point of seeing on my visit to faire!
For a limited time, Bristol was part of the "Farewell Renaissance Faire Tour" of those incomparable jugglers, the Flaaaaaming Idiots (Photo, left). In their earlier days, the Idiots were contracted performers at Bristol and it was a pleasant surprise to see them here. Their act often involved audience particpation-- like this young lady kicking Pyro for dropping a juggling knife (Photo, below).
Another guest artist I came across serendipitiously was Owain Phyfe who, accompanied by Judy Plester, represented the New World Renaissance Band (Photo, left). He normally works Michigan and has occasionally teamed up with the Texas group, Cantiga. Words described to me of Owain's talent included "what a bard ought to sound like", "he brought tears to my eyes" and "I could just listen to him all day and melt". And one of these comments came from a woman! But there was no understatement to the man's art. His austere demeanor belies a mesmerizing voice that is soothing and stirring. He performs a wide range of renaissance ballads in a variety of languages that include Renaissance French, Italian, Latin, Spanish, Provencal and Hungarian. Regardless of the tongue he sings in, Owain will still touch your heart!
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This page created 10 August 1999
This page updated 11 August 1999
Disclaimer: This--and the Webpages following--are an *Unofficial* look at the Bristol Renaissance Festival held near Kenosha, Wisconsin, every year since 1973. The author of these pages is in no way, shape, manner or form connected with the Bristol Renaissance Festival (OFFICE ADDRESS: 12550 120th Ave Kenosha, WI 53142-7337), Renaissance Entertainment Corporation, and/or any of the sponsors associated with this event. All opinions expressed are strictly this author's own.
All photographs on this page are copyright ©1999 by Frank Hui.
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