Hear Ye, Hear Ye!

In Episode #64 of “Hear ye, hear ye, A TX-Style Renaissance Podcast”, I sit down with Bill Palmer, the Man behind Merlin the Magician. Merlin the Magician performed and worked at Texas Renaissance Festival for over 25 years. But that is not even half the story; Bill Palmer is a lifetime resident of Houston TX, and he graduated from Rice University, -and is a well-known magician in Houston and throughout the world. Bill learned accordion from his father, a well-known musician and writer of musical books. So, as a teenager, he started Banjo and quickly astounded his teachers. He then wrote his own music book, “How To Play Folk and Bluegrass Banjo,” that circulated worldwide. Did I mention, he also speaks German. Well, we shall cover that and more in episode sixty-four of “Hear ye, hear ye A TX-Style Renaissance Podcast.” Huzzah! The King

We invite you to enjoy episode #63 of Hera ye, hear ye; A TX-Style Renaissance Podcast! IN this episode we visit the Once and Future General Manager, Jeff Baldwin. WE recorded this episode in the fall before the release of Ren Faire, the movie. When we spoke with Jeff he was once again the Entertainment director, after serving his second time as General Manager. He talks about the pain of losing the position and the need to return and the happiness of once again being a part of the Festival he cares so much about. Unbeknownst to him at the time of the recording, George Coulam, the volatile genius behind the Texas Renaissance Festival, would ask Jeff to return once again to be TRF's General Manager, a mere few months after this recording. In the episode he discusses returning to the festival and his hopes for the future. IT is a fascinating story of winning, losing, and redemption. Never daunted Jeff continued his mission for excellence. Always looking how best to serve the festival, his passion is unquestioned, it is easy to see why once again he would return to lead the TRF into the future.

The King visits With Lord Randolph. Randolph shares his life changing story of how Jane, a coin carver, chainmail, and George Coulam  transformed an a broken veteran battling PTSD and alcoholism into the Lord of Chainmaille Fashions and a Renaissance legend.

The Texas Renaissance Festival King speaks with Rondini Alexander Porter. The Great Rondini has performed at TRF for nearly 15 years. An Escape Artist, magician and showman, Rondini pushes the limits, challenging himself and his audience to escape the mundane and embrace life's extremes with dignity and love.

Goodly Folks,, In episode 60, I speak the New Wineskin Leather Magicians. These artisans have been involved with Renaissance Festivals from around the country for over 50 years. Curtis Burrell started a business that has lasted 4 generations and though each generation has their own style and stride, they follow in daddy's footsteps. Huzzah! -The King Follow the link below to download Episode 60 and all our previous podcast episodes. https://www.texrenfest.com/podcast

In this episode the King continues learning about one the Texas Renaissance Festival's premier shops - Great Hall Designs. In our last episode, number 58, we spoke with Jon Coiner who has spent over 50 years creating, teaching, sharing his vast variety of talents, knowledge and his enduring friendship. In this episode we talk with his business partner, Alli Goff. Alli shares her story about growing up in Texas, becoming an artist, and getting involved with renaissance festivals. She talks about learning from a wide array of artists and finally finding her place working along side and with Jon Coiner.  Her talents, skills, and love of art has transformed a fearless Texas girl into the epitome of a Renaissance artist and woman. From sales and artistry to design to owning her own her own business, Alli has transcended the mundane to living her life on her terms - Huzzah!

Join The King as he speaks with Jon Coiner. Jon was one of the first artists George Coulam called upon to bring their wares to his newly created Minnesota Renaissance Festival. Soon George would open the Texas Renaissance Festival, and again he looked to Jon to display sell his amazing art. Jon has shown his wares at Renaissance festivals across the country. Jon has also spent time teaching, sharing his experiences and lifting up other artists across the globe ,who have gone on to be successful artists opened their own shops and businesses. Jon is always learning and expanding and at 82 he is no hurry to slow down- Huzzah!

Episode 57 focus is Rio Blue, this multi-talented performer gained his chops by traveling the United States learning from a variety of artists, performers, musicians, actors, craftsmen, and his beloved guru. His love of art, music, poetry, and life has been his bridge from a quiet town in the desert of Chile to traveling the United performers States and performing at renaissance festivals for over 50 years. He has been a carpenter, cook, puppeteer, stilt walker, musician, artist, booth owner, community activist and more. Folks recognize him by his friendly smile and joyful laugh. Rio is a father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He resides in Texas with his love and wife, the beautiful Mary.

Meet Josh Weston the Dragon Lord behind The Dragon Forge Experience, new to the Texas Renaissance Festival.  

Antonio Albarran shares his life as a musician playing across the United States at Renaissance Festivals, fairs, and more. He is always at where he is, so enjoy an hour conversation as we discuss music, performance, kids and life. Huzzah!

The King speaks with the Texas Renaissance Festival's new Director of Marketing, Todd Wold. The King explores in depth how a drummer from San Francisco ended up at the reins of the largest Renaissance Festival in the country and how all that connects to skiing?

The King speaks with the Texas Renaissance Festival's new Director of Marketing, Todd Wold. The King explores in depth how a drummer from San Francisco ended up at the reins of the largest Renaissance Festival in the country and how all that connects to skiing?

The King speaks Wit our new Assistant Marketing Director Cathryn Yarbrough and and the new horticulturalist, Cheyenne Griffin. They share their plans to bring new vision to TRF and help bring it into its 50th year. The King Huzzah!

The King speaks with Judge and Christine about being a food vendor at TRF. Mr Edwards brought Coach's Catering came to TRF nearly 5 decades ago, today his son, Judge, continues growing his families' legacy into the 21st century.  

The King speaks with Rhonni and Perry vendors at TRF. Phil and Rhonni worked across the country designing, building booths for other folks until they started their own business and designed and built own their booths and businesses. Throughout it all, their dedication and diligence has consistently brought notice for the excellent job they do, in what ever aspect they do it. Find out why on episode fifty-one of Hear ye, hear ye, A TX-style Renaissance Podcast. 

Today the King speaks with the owner of HAAK Winery, the official wine sponsor of the Texas Renaissance Festival. Kyle shares his history and how he got into wine making. He also shares secrets and techniques in wine production. You will also discover how to enjoy a wine tasting at Odin's Table located near TRF's lake and Arena.

The King speaks with the Manager of the Fields of New Market, Travis Higginbotham and his Assistant Manager Rachael Weber. They share all the information you will need to make reservations and camp at, the Fields of New Market, the Texas Renaissance Festival's official campground. They go over a variety of camping options offered, as well as all the amenities available to our guests. Did you know that there is entertainment from the Knight's Revels, the Royal Bonfire and family camping available every weekend? You will once you have enjoyed our next episode of Her ye, hear ye; A TX-style Renaissance Podcast. -The King, Huzzah!

The King is joined by Box Office Manager, Tegan Dunnican, who informs us all about everything - Tickets! You will find out the in and outs of acquiring your tickets to the Texas Renaissance Festival. She also shares tips on how you can save money on your tickets. There are some special ticket offers for our Teachers, Military and First Responders, as well. You will not want to miss this - Huzzah! The KIng

The King meets with Matt and Andree Basse to discuss how they became part of the Texas Renaissance Festival. How one visit set Matt on the path to managing and eventually owning two major food areas at TRF. She shares how he and Andree met, married and made two families one. They attribute their success to there family, friends, and one big beast of a man, Joe Aronson, who was Matt's friend, mentor and inspiration.  We conclude our discussion talking about a devastating fire that nearly took away everything and how like a Phoenix they have risen back up from the ashes to rebuild.  

On this episode, TRF's Queen Quintessence joins the King on, Hear ye, hear ye; A TX-style Renaissance Podcast, to share her story about becoming the Queen of the Texas Renaissance Festival for over two decades. She talks about her beginnings in New Mexico and hw she ended up working around the globe. Mother, athlete, geologist software specialist, grandmother and more. Our beautiful Queen is always on the move seeking out another adventure. However, her trips always lead her back to what she holds dearest her family and friends. 

The King speaks with Thomas Nuendel who has been playing on the Renaissance circuit for nearly three decades. A self proclaimed hired "gun", of the musician sort, Thomas has played throughout the country from Broadway to Texas, his skills are always in demand. Thomas shares his personal story growing up in a musical family singing Christian and folk songs. Thomas's story will delight and inspire, so quit reading this and press play. The King - Huzzah!  

The King is joined by TRF's wedding and event coordinators, Christina Garcia and Kaylyn Wilson, to talk about proposals, weddings, birthday parties, and all other fun events that take place every weekend of our festival season.  This week, we discuss the ins and outs of the entire process for those of you looking to celebrate your special day with us.   In this podcast, the following tales are told: How Christina and Kaylyn became a part of TRF Who to talk to in order to book a wedding for TRF 2022 Where Texas Renaissance weddings can be held How much it costs and what each pricing package comes with

We're joined by Lady Darla Smith, our TRF Craft, and Vending Coordinator, as we put a bow on 2021 and get started on our 2022 festival season!  Darla shares  how new renaissance artists, craftspeople and vendors can get involved at the 2022 Texas Renaissance Festival.    In this podcast, the following tales are told by Darla and the King: TRF 2021's record-breaking festival vendor sales and attendance  Our biggest renaissance vendors of 2021's season New and open retail and vending spaces for 2022 Getting involved in TRF and applying to sell your goods Sneak peaks at the newest area.   Notable moments: Saying goodbye to an incredible TRF 2021 The 2021 Texas Renaissance Festival was extremely successful and Darla is incredibly proud of the many vendors that met and exceeded their sales goals. With pandemic concerts still heightened, we were able to pull off a safe festival with many exciting attractions and new additions that we wouldn't have been able to pull off without the support of our many amazing patrons and our hardworking staff.  “We had an amazing year last year. Our attendance was fantastic and our sales for vendors were record-breaking.”  Seeing what's on the horizon for new vendors in our 2022 festival season    Looking to get involved as a vendor or craftsman in 2022? TRF has plenty of opportunities available with shops up for sale and new temporary sale spaces open! During our episode, Darla discusses the ins and outs of the vendor approval process and encourages anyone (familiar with renaissance festivals or not) looking for a new opportunity to sell to jump on our website and fill out our online vendor application.  “I'm really looking for some exciting new vendors to come in.”     “Big things are coming for TRF in this new area.” --------- For more information on the Texas Renaissance Festival, vending with us, and 2022 announcements: Visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and subscribe to our YouTube! 

We're joined by Billy Billy Von Billy, a star performer in our Mud Show, to reflect on another amazing festival season at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Our 48th annual festival was bigger than ever, and we have so many amazing events to recap, people to shoutout, and news to share!  In this episode, the following tales are told by Billy and the King: Having fun at the Mud Show with amazing crowds Appreciating how far we've come since 2020 Saying hello to new faces in our cast and crew Celebrating what 2021 taught us Getting excited about 2022

We're joined by Tom Godrey, owner of Tomcat Games LLC and manager of our many games and rides at the Texas Renaissance Festival. Tom talks with us about the history he has working with games at TRF, the work that he and his wife dedicate to our Todd Mission volunteer fire department, and the future of games and rides during our current festival season and beyond. In this episode, the following tales are told by Tom: Being born and raised in Texas Getting his start at TRF in the tomato booth Fighting fires with his wife, Cassandra Mentoring under game and ride employers at TRF Taking over the business and adding new elements

We're joined by George Giordano, owner of Slayer's Castle and IMDB-credited special effects and stuntman. George talks with us about his many adventures in the film industry, his journey from Hollywood to Texas, and the many props and oddities he delights patrons with every year at TRF.  In this episode, the following tales are told by George: Attractions within the Slayers Castle Wonders of the interactive 3D maze  Props on display in the Slayers House of Discount Oddities Experience in Children's Theater Workshop & Troma  Work with PCND/fx and other projects

The King interviews the American Sign Language (ASL) organization.

This week, we're joined by Alan Ward, Brewmaster and owner of Brigadoon Brewery, and Lauren Croft, assistant to the General Manager of TRF. Alan and Lauren delight us with their personal tales of joining our renaissance festival family as well as give us lots to look forward to when TRF begins on October 9th!  In this episode, the following tales are told: Delving into the history of Brigadoon Brewery Breaking down our upcoming weekend themes  Showcasing authentic recipes and historically accurate beer Learning more about costume contests and ways to win big  Getting ready to open the gates for the first weekend of TRF

This week, we're joined by our TRF Craft and Vending Coordinator, Darla Smith. Darla tells us about her renaissance journey from Colorado to Texas, her purchase of a rescue elephant, and her exciting news about our upcoming job fair on September 11th.  In this episode, the following tales are told: Getting her start in the Colorado Renaissance Festival  Starting her own business working with animals  Being involved with the TRF covid compliance team Developing strong relationships with vendors Looking forward to the upcoming TRF season 

Putting the Texas in Renaissance Festival: Meet the Imhoffs

This week on Hear Ye Hear Ye, the King is joined by Ligia Giles and her daughter, Sharon Szpak, owners and operators of the La Fiesta food section, the Red Lion Restaurant, and the Polonia Pub. Ligia and Sharon share with us stories of their humble beginnings and their extraordinary growth during their time with TRF.   In this episode, the following tales are told:  Growing up in Bolivia and moving to Texas  Coming up with an idea to join TRF  Learning to make and sell empanadas  Marrying into a Polish family and being part of their culture  Remembering all of the fond moments of TRF 

This week on Hear Ye Hear Ye, the King is joined by Charles Prince, owner of Merchant Prince Inc, who has been involved at TRF for the past 25 years in food and entertainment. Charles comes from a long family history of passionate hospitality and restaurant workers and today he shares about his history with the festival, his variety of offerings, and his love for his community.  In this episode, the following tales are told: Becoming a part of the TRF team with the help of King George Focusing on venues with entertainment and food Caring about and supporting his community Leading his team and emphasizing culinary sense Reflecting on 2020 and looking forward to 2021

This week on Hear Ye Hear Ye, the King is joined by Angela Staha, TRF's Head Costumer, as they discuss Angela's journey from the army to TRF, the many challenges of costuming, and Texas Renaissance Festival's own themed costume contest.  In this episode, the following tales are told:  Taking the journey from the army to TRF  Developing a variety of skills from tattooing to painting  Learning the ropes of costume design  Managing a staff of incredible individuals  Working through mishaps and all matters of weather 

This week on Hear Ye Hear Ye, the King is joined by Larry Murley, author, artisan, and American veteran. With the help of his wife, Larry has been able to open Crystal Mountain, a Texas Renaissance Festival booth that sells oils and incense, as well as share his stories from the Vietnam war with the world through his several books.  In this episode, the following tales are told:  Wearing several hats in life with pride  Making the journey from truck driving to renaissance festivals   Becoming an author to tell his story  Finding community and family within festivals   Helping veterans cope with their experiences  

This week on Hear Ye Hear Ye!, the King is joined by Tiffany McArthur, Coordinator of the Ambassador Program, and Brandy Cabe, Ambassador and ASL Volunteer. These two lovely ladies talk about joining our incredible ambassador program and the amazing events they get to be a part of.   In this episode, the following tales are told:  Changing our marketing approach with Marketing Refresh  Planning events with ambassadors all year round   Getting the word out about TRF  Making the festival as accessible as possible   Becoming a volunteer yourself     Notable Moments:  Going through the selections process (Tiffany)   Our ambassadors are a group of incredibly dedicated volunteers that devote hours of their lives to TRF, no matter what time of year it is. With the importance they hold not only to us, but to our community as well, each ambassador goes through an application and selection process, which Tiffany now gets to have an impactful role in as our new coordinator.    “They're all very involved, and what an amazing crowd.”  Getting to take charge of ambassadors (Tiffany)   As a new addition to our TRF family, Tiffany is incredibly excited to take on a leadership role in an amazing group of passionate volunteers. From selecting ambassadors to coordinating events, she loves that her and her marketing team (Marketing Refresh) can help ambassadors get the word out about TRF and the incredible things we do for our community.   “I would say that they're our boots on the ground throughout the festival.”  Gathering new patrons through events (Brandy)     After four years of being an ambassador, Brandy is incredibly knowledgeable about everything ambassadors get to do for our festival and the community we are dedicated to helping. From showing up at community events to organizing charitable drives to help those in need, ambassadors like Brandy tell new people about us all the time, all year round.   “We all just love it and so anywhere we go, we’re all wearing our shirts and talking about it.”  Giving back to the community in a big way (Brandy)  TRF is so important to Brandy because of the opportunity that it provides her to be involved in such an inclusive environment. One of Brandy’s passions as a teacher certified in ASL is helping the hard of hearing and deaf community participate in festival events through organizations like ASL Faires TX.    “It just feels like a special, magical place that you just want to come back to.”   ----  Learn more about the ambassadors on the ambassador page on our website.   Find out more about Marketing Refresh and all they do on their website.   Keep up-to-date on all things ASL Faires TX on their Facebook.   For more information on the Texas Renaissance Festival,  Visit our website!   Like us on Facebook!  Follow us on Twitter!   Subscribe to our YouTube!  

Martha grew up playing musical instruments from a young age, including receiving private piano lessons at the age of 5, and she always had a passion for making music. Influenced by dreams she was having and the love of harpist Alan Stivell, Martha purchased a harp at the age of 21 with the help of a few generous friends and embarked on what would become her future career. Although she studied Archaeology at Oxford College in her youth, she felt the calling to become a part of renaissance festivals and has since spent decades of her career delighting patrons with song. 

Saint Patty's Day With The White Wizard | Episode 28

In this episode we meet Henry VIII King of England and Queen Juana la Loca from Espana.

TRF Valentine's Day Special Special Guest The King  Billy Von Billy Queen Juana de Espana Henry VIII of England Queen of Hearts from Wonderland, Alice Wonderland

We discuss last year and look ahead to this year.

The King and Marlena take a look back at 2020 and forward to 2021.

The King and special guest Billy Von Billy welcome The Merry Minstrels. Together they thank friends and sponsors while reveling in good cheer and music!

Adrian Walter, the founding member of Tartanic, visits us this week on Hear Ye, Hear Ye! to delight us with stupendous music and magnificent stories! As our festival continues on, Adrian talks to us about his history with the renaissance festival, his tireless troupe schedule, and the founding of one of the most popular musical attractions here at the Texas Renaissance Festival.

This week, Hear Ye, Hear Ye! gets to meet a new (but surprisingly familiar) face, Danielle Dupont, the current president of the RESCU Foundation. Standing for Renaissance Entertainers, Services, and Crafters United, Danielle works with RESCU on their mission to connect the renaissance community through the power of health.    This interview with Danielle includes exciting tales that cover the following topics:     Promoting health and safety    As a community, renaissance festival workers often include artisans and entrepreneurs who may not have the same insurance coverages, income consistencies, or healthcare opportunities as those working in other fields. With differences in working seasons, locations, and occupations, RESCU works with renaissance employees to promote healthy lifestyles, encourage enrolling in government services, and open opportunities for medical bill assistance.     “Keeping everyone well within that community is important to keep the magic continuing.”    Protecting renaissance employees    Every year, RESCU has provided thousands of dollars worth of aid and assistance to renaissance workers in need. This need looks different for everyone, and Danielle emphasizes that so many different employees qualify for help if they need it. Through online forms as well as over the phone, RESCU has worked with craftsmen and artisans, performers and vendors all over the country, helping them learn how to help themselves.    “Anyone who has ever been involved with renaissance festivals is eligible for some sort of help from the RESCU foundation.”    Providing necessary services, despite challenges    With situations such as COVID, Danielle wants the community to know that RESCU is still here to help and still needs help from their generous volunteers and donors nationwide. From COVID testing to contraception, pro-bono medical appointments to prescription aid, so many people benefit from what the hardworking team at RESCU provides, and our team at the Texas Renaissance Festival strongly encourages you to lend them a helping hand if you can.     “It’s really fun because it’s such a challenge, there's so much that needs to be done.”    --    To find out more about RESCU, visit them on their website and facebook, or call their contact number: 1-800-374-9215.     For more information on the Texas Renaissance Festival,    Visit our website!  

Daphne, the Washing Well Wench, stops by to say hello to the King, introduce her many identical cousins, and teach us all a little bit about laundry. We're also joined by Thomas Wood, the daring (and sometimes dangerous!) pyro-juggler of the Texas Renaissance Festival. As a comedian, performer, juggler, and fire-eater, Thomas visits us on this fine day in Todd Mission to discuss his own history of performing and how he’s lit his own fire during these uncertain times.

On this special Christmas edition of Hear Ye, Hear Ye!, we welcome Jim Hancock, the Burly Minstrel of the Texas Renaissance Festival, to the show! With years of experience in music and his own Christmas band, Jim delights us with stories and songs that are sure to spread some holiday cheer to our listeners.  Continuing to do multiple festivals each year As a traveling musician, Jim spends his normal festival season delighting crowds at 5 different renaissance festivals. Since the ‘80s, Jim has heard the call to strike up the band and to spread his love of renaissance music and centuries-old songs to thousands of people across the country every single year.  “There are great musicians at every festival I do, and that’s why I keep doing it.” Cherishing all forms of music and musicians Although Jim has been a musician since childhood and has studied music in school, his primary love for performing comes from the imperfect, improvisational aspects. Instead of emphasizing perfection and professional training, Jim believes that musicians should be caring more about the environments and emotions they create with the music they perform.  “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being expressive and communicating.” Capitalizing on his recording abilities Affected by the pandemic as a musician, Jim had a lot of time on his hands this year and was able to embark on creating his own recording studio in his house. With experience in location recording and a passion for elevating the sounds of his fellow musicians, Jim is excited with this new opportunity to make music an even bigger part of his life.  “I’ve had a great time making them sound as good as I can make them sound.” -- Find out more about Jim’s Christmas band, the Merry Minstrels, on their agency’s website.  For more information on the Texas Renaissance Festival,Visit our website!

Richard Meritzer, owner of TRF’s Escape Room and leader of the improv troupe Sound & Fury, joins us this week on Hear Ye, Hear Ye! to share the latest festival tales. Richard takes his time with us to talk about performing, travelling, and escaping from a fantastical room of his own amazing creation. Hear Ye, Hear Ye! gets the honor of connecting once again this week with our Wonderpuppy Pirate, Chip Ware. Chip has continued to wander the campgrounds, cataloging the various sounds he has been hearing, trying new treats, and making so many new friends from a safe distance.

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! welcomes a new and exciting guest this week: Louie Migliaccio, owner of the Dragon Slayer, Chronos, and Wyrmwood. In this exclusive interview with one of our most popular vendors, Louie talks about souvenir innovations, absinthe tastings, and all things new and exciting in this year's festival.

Madam of Matrimony and Lady of All Occasions, Vee Brauner. As our Wedding Manager & Coordinator, Vee oversees all the weddings and parties that occur all festival long, from last-minute ceremonies to extravagant receptions.

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! is happy to welcome back Lady Jennifer Pierce to the show this week for an update regarding the many vendors that make up our 2020 festival. Jennifer informs us of a noteworthy cause to donate to, a selection of shops to see and keeps us on our toes with the many new changes taking place this year.