MILLVILLE — The Kingdom of Wheaton comes to life with characters from folklore, fairy tales and fantasy at the Fantasy Faire at WheatonArts on June 21 and 22. This family-friendly festival blends historic fact with myth and popular fantasy from the medieval and renaissance periods of history.
The event is produced by WheatonArts in partnership with Mystic Realms. Mystic Realms is a theatric arts organization that combines traditional theatric skills with live-action role playing to create an interactive experience where the participant is both the actor and the audience. Strolling costumed characters, portraying historical and mythical figures, interact with visitors on the grounds each day.
This year’s highlights include:
■ Shows throughout the day engage visitors in an interactive story. Watch as the four Baronies of the Kingdom of Wheaton prepare for the Tournament of Prosperity where their champions will fight for glory and honor.
■ Watch sword fighting and other medieval skills demonstrated by stage combat and historical reenactment groups.
■ Children will meet and interact with many characters of Grimm’s Fairytales including Little Red Riding Hood and the Grimm Brothers, Jacob and Wilhelm, authors of Grimm Fairytales.
■ Hold court with the Knights of the Round Table including Sir Lancelot, Sir Gwian and Merlin. Listen to Queen Mab, Titania, Oberon and Puck tell stories from the Land of the Fairy.
■ Performing Renaissance and folk music throughout the day, both wandering and stage performances, will be music groups 4 Pieces of 8 and the Misplace Pub.
■ Professional stage and street magician, Joshua Berstecher, will perform throughout the day.
■ At the Court of Miracles meet Esmeralda and other characters from the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
■ Dancing and drumming techniques by individual and troupe performers. Performances every half hour.
■ Attend Medieval Dance lessons.
■ Musketeer Training with the Three Musketeers. Persons age 14 and older, and in good physical health, can train to become musketeers.
■ Children can attend and participate in the raising of the Spring Pole and wrapping dance at 1:30 p.m.
■ Meet Robin Hood and his Merry Band. Practice your archery skills for a small donation to the band.
In addition, author Carol J. Weakland will sign her new novel, Morgen of Avalon, for visitors both days. Learn more about the author at www.carolweakland.com.
Merchants and vendors offer jewelry, medieval and fantasy costumes, leather goods and psychic readings. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Visitors will receive a detailed program of activities both days.
WheatonArts is open Tues. through Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Open July 4 and Labor Day. The Fantasy Faire is included in the price of admission to WheatonArts. Adults $10.00, Senior Adults $9.00 and Students $7.00. Children five and under are free.
For information about the event and WheatonArts, call 856-825-6800 or 800-998-4552, or visit wheatonarts.org. For more information about Mystic Realms, Ltd., visit www.mysticrealms.com.
WheatonArts strives to ensure the accessibility of its exhibitions, events and programs to all persons with additional needs. Individuals needing special assistance or accommodations should provide notice at
least two weeks in advance. Patrons with hearing and speech disabilities may contact WheatonArts through the New Jersey Relay Service (TRS) 800-852-7899 or by dialing 711.
Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department
of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, by funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, New Jersey Cultural Trust and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. WheatonArts receives general operating support from the New Jersey Historical Commission, Division of Cultural Affairs in the New Jersey Department of State. Additional funding provided through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.