Medieval Banquets

Minstrels, Jesters, strolling players – even fire eaters and falconry displays. Select the entertainers you would like for your event, anything from just a wandering minstrel to a full package complete with decorations, table centres, 'Master of Revels / 'Lord Chamberlain and sound system.

Some suggestions...

First Impressions – Your Guest Arrive

Create a stunning first impression for your guests as they arrive – choose from minstrels, jugglers and fire-eaters as well as a jester and Lord Chamberlain or Master of Revels to meet and greet them and ‘break the ice' – all in full period costume.

During the Ceremony

Singers or minstrels can provide the perfect music for your theme. Instruments include medieval bagpipes and hurdy gurdys – a fascinating instrument that has three sets of strings providing the melody, a drone accompaniment and rhythm to give it a unique sound. Either on its own, or blended with another instrument it is a stunning choice to entertain whilst you sign the register.

During The Photographs

It can be hard to strike the right balance for this part of the day – it is good to have some interesting background music when the photographs are being taken, whilst avoiding anything too loud or intrusive.

In the right venue a group of minstrels can be out of the way, playing period and traditional tunes on a wide range of instruments. Time and time again guests have commented on how enjoyable the music was, without being intrusive – some couples have even joined in with the music for their photographs!

Before The Meal

If there is going to be a break before your wedding breakfast or banquet you could have a short play – perhaps some scenes from ‘Shakespeare's Lovers?

Or we could arrange a display of falconry, magic, juggling or fire eating – even a Punch and Judy show, or puppets for the children.

During The Meal - Lord Chamberlain

From a conventional toastmaster to a Lord Chamberlain or other historical character, you can select your choice to be a ‘Master of Ceremonies'. Minstrels can play you into the feast or breakfast, sing or play between courses, and a magician can delight all by working his way round the tables.

After The Meal

Time perhaps to start unwinding? How about having a performance by some ‘strolling players' – anything from the bawdy ‘Miller's Tale' by Chaucer, or a comedy ‘murder mystery' play written especially for your day.

Alternatively, perhaps some background music whilst you relax with coffee. If you have moved to another area for this whilst the main hall is cleared and prepared for the evening, and are holding your reception in a period house or castle, would you enjoy leading the procession back with minstrels playing pipes and drums?

The Evening

There are now fortunately many live music alternatives available rather than the normal option of a disco. Because of the wide range of ages often found at any family gathering, it can be an impossible choice for the DJ to find music that will appeal to all, and no matter how good they are as a presenter, nothing can match the ambience and excitement of having your own musicians for the evening.

As an agent since the mid 80's (and a musician since the 70's) I've found that few forms of entertainment can match a barn dance or ceilidh in breaking the ice and getting guests up and dancing quickly – even if it is only for an hour or two before a disco or covers band. There is a link at the top of this page to a section explaining what they are, and how they work if you would like to know more.

The Bride and Groom Leave

Would you like to lead a last dance, or process up the middle of an arch formed by your guests saying goodnight to them all?

Comments from our previous Customers

"Excellent musicianship + repertoire. Very entertaining + made the whole evening a success. The medieval music repertoire was superb as was the array of instruments + the diverse talents of the musicians. …the success of the musicians + caller in getting people to dance, + the sheer exuberance of the music + enthusiasm of the players. I will recommend you to anyone seeking entertainment for their event. Keep up the good work!"

"Your unique music and the costumes really made for a 'complete experience'."

"Dear Paul, please thank your team of entertainers for me who performed at my wedding. They did a brilliant job and could not be faulted . Jester – very proactive – worked hard. Minstrel – a delight to the ears. Falconry – excellent."

"The Lord Chancellor was excellent in getting everyone to participate, and into the spirit of the event. Many staff members said that they would not normally have joined in, but the atmosphere was such that they did not feel embarrassed, or likely to be embarrassed. Thank you for a great evening."

"It was all very professional and they organised us very well. Everyone enjoyed the whole evening. Thank you for all your help"

"Dear Paul, we just wanted to say thank you to yourself & all the entertainers who were at our wedding at Lympne Castle . It was the most wonderful day, which was helped by all the minstrels, jesters, Lord Chamberlain, Lord of the Manor and musicians who took part."

"All the music, barn dance & play were exactly as we wanted it. And so many people commented on how good you all were. Once again thank you so much you all added to make our wedding magical."

"So many of our guests complimented you and your band – amazed at both the length and quality of the performance. The minstrels during the day and the barn dance in the evening were perfect and a good time was had by all."

"Dear Paul, just wanted to drop you a quick note to say thank you for the fantastic entertainment you provided at my wedding. It really was the icing on the cake. Loads of people have commented on how much they enjoyed the day, the music, the songs, the banter, then the barn dancing in the evening. It really was a day to remember!! Many thanks again."

"Dear Paul. Thank you so much for a fantastic evening. Everybody who I have spoken to since thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The involvement was perfect and the children really enjoyed themselves.I would like to say a special thank you to the Lord Chamberlain, who played his part especially well. Many thanks to you as well for all the help that you have given me in booking this. I will be in touch should I ever need you help again. All best wishes."

"It is difficult to express how grateful Paul and I are to you regarding the part you played in making this years event, probably, the most successful we have held so far. Thursday evenings entertainment was totally different to anything we have previously done and its success due largely to your watchful eye over the audience. We have received numerous complimentary letters from our clients, both from those who participated and those fortunate enough not to be singled out for a forfeit. Paul has been spotted as a must for the next series of 'Stars in Their Eyes'!!

On a serious note, we are both sincerely grateful to yourself and your very talented friends who helped make the evening very special and particularly memorable. We have made a note of the murder/mystery theme!"