New Book Celebrates The History, Growth & Lure Of the American Renaissance Festival From An Insider’s Unique Perspective
“An engaging insider’s look at the history and value of Renaissance festivals… a delightful and visually impressive book…The book’s inviting prose is accompanied by a treasure trove of full-color photographs.”
–Kirkus Reviews
As the Renaissance Festival itself heads towards it’s sixth decade
The History of the American Renaissance Festival,
by Al Olson, features images of collected ephemera from festivals going back several generations. Olson is perfectly positioned to write of the festival phenomenon, and does so very colorfully and passionately.
The American Renaissance Festival has grown in size and stature to become an adventurous celebration of all things 16th century – from jousting knights on horseback, costumed kings, and bar wenches, and acrobats to magicians, court jesters, and swashbuckling pirates. Add in games of skill or chance, and a marketplace of shops featuring artisanal offerings and the finest homemade wares. Throw in savory sweets, giant turkey drumsticks, a mug of mead, ale and steak on a stick –, and you have the makings of a fun time.
So, how did the medieval faires and festivals get started — and who was behind their growth of the past few decades?
A new book celebrates the history, lure, and people behind the American Renaissance Festival, from the unique perspective of an insider who not only performed at scores of festivals the past half-century but who co-founded one (in Tennessee).
“The American Renaissance Festival has evolved from a sitcom joke into mainstream
entertainment,” says Olson. “Each year millions of people attend these colorful, convivial gatherings even if they have to travel halfway across the country to do so. Most first-time visitors become lifetime fans. My motive for writing this book is to share some of the profound magic I experienced with the amazing souls who peopled and helped create the industry.”
It is the only history book of its kind. The history of the beginnings and growth of the Renaissance festival industry, including biographies of over 50 people involved in all phases of the business, are featured. The book is rich with photos and scans of participants, places and posters that should not be forgotten.
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