A Ren Faire Performer reacts to HBO's "Ren Faire"

[@AgentRood]

Don't let people phone case shame you. You draw your mustache on one curl at a time, just like any other normal individual. You're allowed to enjoy whatever phone case you like!

[@Nirrrina]

I agree. I think it suits him because he's a performer & it's fun. Also he said he got it in a pinch. Probably the only one available. But why bother replacing it if you think it's fine & it works.

[@bimiup1]

Love it!

[@bubblsbubbls3243]

It is probably his wife's phone because we see his in a few videos and it is not that color

[@ChillwithChel]

Video immediately gets a 10/10 just for having a cat. It gets a 20/10 for how loving Jack is on his cat. Best cat dad, absolutely.

[@thecatofnineswords]

Jacque's instagram and tiktok channels are more about Scipio than whipping, and I like it.

[@phaedrapage4217]

I love how much he loves his fuzzy son. ❤

[@waffles3629]

10/10 has cat

[@elizabethpetersen5457]

Yep! That’s right when I hit the like button~ 😹

[@GrayRaceCat]

My wife and I have had 4 orange cats over the years, and every single one was "down for an adventure" without exception! Orange cats are something else!

[@WilliamDancin]

The case is LAVENDER and there is nothing more FRENCH than that! "Herbs de Provence," anyone?

[@thomasdevine867]

Well, in actual France, Herbs de Provence never contains lavender.

[@WilliamDancin]

@@thomasdevine867 Yes, but as he likes to remind us, Jacques is a Faux Frenchman. 😉 He's the "North American blend."

[@kathilisi3019]

Herbes de Provence contains rosemary and thyme though, both of which have lavender-coloured blossoms.

[@WilliamDancin]

@@kathilisi3019 That is true! And lavender itself is a significant part of French culture, both historically and economically speaking. Its cultivation boomed with the perfume industry in the 19th century in Grasse, and later became famous for postcard (and Instagram) photos. Now it's a 55 million-dollar industry. It's had some ecological trouble lately, so, to protect it and its role in French culture, local growers, scientists, and business owners have created a special endowment fund to preserve/protect it, called Fonds de Dotation Sauvegarde du Patrimoine Lavandes en Provence (Fonds SPLP). Lavender is a heritage symbol that French locals are passionate about! And it's a great color choice for Jacques' phone case.😄

[@WilliamDancin]

@@kathilisi3019 That is true! And lavender itself is a significant part of French culture, both historically and economically speaking. Its cultivation boomed with the perfume industry in the 19th century around Grasse, and later became famous for postcard (and Instagram) photos. Now it's a 55 million-dollar industry. It's had some ecological trouble lately, so, to protect it and its role in French culture, local growers, scientists, and business owners have created a special endowment fund called Fonds de Dotation Sauvegarde du Patrimoine Lavandes en Provence (Fonds SPLP). Lavender is a heritage symbol that French locals are passionate about! And it's a great color choice for Jacques' phone case.

[@MrLimeyTX]

Oh man, if ONLY we knew someone who had worked in TV, and Ren Faires, who could make an accurate documentary on life behind the scenes!

[@shugotenchi]

You really don't. They shot that Jack Black renfest movie at the Faire I work at and a camera truck will really tear up the street in front of your pub.

[@pendlera2959]

@@shugotenchi I'd expect someone like Jacques to be particularly careful about that kind of issue.

[@sleep2dream83]

"Early morning screams" I completely understand, Scipio, I scream in the morning too.

[@thecatofnineswords]

People taunt me with, "Good morning" but to me it's more like, "Good god it's morning."

[@CatyBee]

Same.

[@phaedrapage4217]

I find it's best to not venture further than the bathroom before noon.

[@BillyAbshier]

This video really shows off your journalism background. I enjoy it, and would be pleased to see more "behind the scenes" like you described if you're willing to document it. (And shout out to adventure cat!)

[@helena8999]

agreed! Would definitely love to hear more about how Ren Faires work logistically, and about the people who make it happen!

[@ajdevilish]

Oooo....behind the scenes with Jack!! That would be phenomenal!

[@JamieSunila]

THANK YOU. As a participant of faire for over 10 years...thank you. I wish we could have a real doc about how it actually is without the weird dramatization.

[@ajdevilish]

I would definitely watch a real docuseries about the real workings, behind the scenes of a ren faire. I've only been to 1, and a couple of other "themed" festivals but I hope to change that someday.

[@Alias3141]

I had a friend travel with the faire and from what she showed me, there's more than enough drama, sex, and intrigue to make a thrilling docuseries without dramatizing it further.

[@Skye_Writer]

Idk that there is one that does as much bts, but there doc film "Rennie" can be found online for free.

[@SharynS.]

I love the random kisses on Scipio’s noggin. It’s always lovely to see a cat dad unabashedly loving his cat son. 🐈 ❤️

[@NavaSDMB]

I was a freelance IT consultant for 20 years. One of the great joys of my life was the day I could put all my clean, ironed "fancy job clothes" and the "fancy shoes" into a couple of suitcases and take them to the local equivalent of Goodwill. I support your refusal to wear a hat.

[@MerrySidhe]

I started working at TRF in 1977, when there was just one "street." The hat thing is so true. I know so many people who got around it by making a stuffed circlet (basically a doughnut), and if they wanted to be fancy they'd attach a little bit of a veil to hang down the back. Then there were George's parades. And the total lack of support for female workers, whether they were out hawking among the crowd or running the games and shops. Drunk mundanes are no joke. I've had patrons grab me and carry me into the trees while I was screaming for help. Everyone seemed to think it was part of a show. One of the food vendors actually leaped over his counter and rescued me. One very cold, wet autumn, I was running the bocce game. It had been a very slow day because of the weather, and my relief never showed up. A couple of drunk patrons decided to use the bushes behind me for a toilet, thus exposing themselves to me. I had to call some guys in the SCA off the fighter's mound for assistance. I ended up working 2 shifts, and my feet were so cold that the nails on my big toes turned black and fell off. And the facilities for those of us who camped there every weekend were a joke. I remember how excited we all were when we got solar showers. Until we actually used them. Large black plastic bladders that took all day to warm up and only delivered maybe 3-4 warmish showers before the water turned icy again. But even with all that, we lived for end of day, when the whole site was ours, not a stitch of mundane clothing in sight, and we could just be ourselves. Magical. If the weather was truly horrible, some of the vendors who lived above their shops would let you put your sleeping bag inside so you wouldn't drown or freeze. A true community.

[@elrikstronginthearm9267]

Ah yes, everybody has to wear a hat. Because of historical accuracy. Because ren faires are so historically accurate.

[@kikiofdoom]

The mermaids I work with are the epitome of accuracy, OBVIOUSLY

[@christophermortika5118]

@@kikiofdoom Good point. In the historical 16th Century Europe, mermaids did not wear hats.

[@planesight1142]

oi! our costume mistress is STRICT on us abiding sumptuary laws, and we spent 2 months learning 16th century village life..... we can spot a non cast playtron a mile away. ,,,just because you have not interacted with a proper cast does not mean we do not exist!

[@colleenrude6101]

Not just o e had, but two head coverings. Why you ask...because back in the day bathing was not something you did often...and lice had to stay on your head and not I side your fancy hat check out the Renaissance pleasure Faire of SOUTHERN AND NORTHERN California

[@kellydriscoll4382]

We once had a theme of King Arthur versus Vikings at ours one year. Then there was the gal dressed as a Drow one year…

[@sarahhinman3919]

I have friends that work the Renn Faires here in Texas and I have been a guest performer and this last season at Sherwood I remember one of the hairbraiders complaining about being chastised by management about not wearing a flower in her hair which is a rule. So the hat thing does not surprise me at all 😅

[@jeanaprewitt9658]

Because all women wore a flower in their hair at that time. Good catch by what I have to assume was a male in management. Back then, people were busy growing food, not flowers.

[@vozera723]

For all the years I've been going to renn faires that's always been a rule at least at TRF

[@finallykat1299]

​@@vozera723 do they have to be real?

[@sarahhinman3919]

Not that I’m aware.

[@vozera723]

@@finallykat1299 not that I'm aware of no, but I personally haven't worked there I've known a lot of people who have

[@Shade01982]

"Docu Fantasia" is such a cop out way of creating a documentary with the added excuse of 'I can get away with making mistakes and I don't have to do my proper research'... Also, imagine having a reputation of being 'a bit eccentric' amongst people known for being a bit eccentric...

[@Cleyven]

After the Reindeer issue that Netflix having, it might be for good reason (the docu fantasia name).

[@OctopusOwl]

Eccentricity on a logarithmic scale

[@sugalofe4131]

Eccentric is a very polite and political way to express the general feeling of the texas rennies towards George. By and large none of the booth owners, TRF lifers, nor cast I know has had much in the way of good word for him, and I've been going and have family who've run or worked shops there for about the last 30 years.

[@hallieharvey4073]

@@sugalofe4131yea same he is being very polite in his description of George let’s just say the show probably didn’t take creative liberties with him like they did others.

[@christianpmatthews]

My personal heroes of TRF are the guys who get the port a potty contract for the camp grounds. Every single one is cleaned daily and it truly makes camping there a wonderful experience

[@five_afb8250]

Jack, thank you for taking the time to give such a detailed and specific insight, long form, edited, and stable. I can't imagine how tired you must be with doing shows on the road and living life, so this extra content is much appreciated!!!

[@mysdelune]

The LRF comment stood out to me, because I definitely feel TRF is way more adult, to the point that it would be uncomfortable. The couple of times I went, there was a lot of sexist comments, innuendos, and in some cases even assault by or of the performers. For awhile, I thought most Ren Faires operated like that, which was uncomfortable since there were kids around, but after talking with some regular Faire go-ers, I realize that it's more of a TRF thing. Also makes me want to try out the the LRF.

[@vozera723]

When I was 13 I got called a 2 schilling wh0r3 so yeah TRF has always been very adult...

[@lord_wolfmann]

I've never been to TRF but I heard plenty about it from vendors, patrons, and performers while working site services at LRF. It sounded so unreal how "adult" it was that I didn't believe it until I was told by about three people. I definitely suggest checking out LRF(or any other, I'm biased) before writing off all ren faires.

[@Amcsae]

I know I can Google it, but do you know where in LA the Faire is? Nearest city?

[@StarfallStream]

@@Amcsaeit’s in Hammond!!!!

[@StarfallStream]

Love love love LARF!!!!!

[@ChristianeLevesque]

Adventure cat is the best kind of cat. Glad you have him with you. ❤

[@sherri42]

George should generate an Epic Quest line to determine who is most worthy to inherit the Renn Faire.

[@DarkusZarvix]

This feels like the Ren Faire version of Ready Player One and I would love to see it. XD

[@ginjaninja6585]

@@DarkusZarvix, epic like Ready Player One, but more personal and excentric (b/c alive) like Willy Wonka.

[@MerrySidhe]

That might be the one reality show I'd actually watch.

[@timhotep2112]

As a member of ren faire cast, I can attest to the accuracy of LOADING my mug with various forms of caffeine.

[@jessicathompson8365]

Good to see an industry insider's take on the show. Hopefully someone someday will make a doc about the actual day-to-day production of a Ren Faire.

[@LadyVagabond13]

"A bit eccentric" is SUCH a diplomatic way of describing George's reputation 😂

[@Kimberly-lp4nh]

I was thinking a$$hat a lot of the time watching him. Narcissistic, abusive, bullying misogynist was another one.

[@sugalofe4131]

I got a good chuckle out of that, myself. Diplomatic indeed. Certainly a few less invectives preceding or following his name than I'm used to, lol

[@hallieharvey4073]

I mean the look he gave really said it all😂 and it’s technically not a lie

[@JasTheMadTexan]

Glad to hear Jacques take on this. I don’t have an HBO subscription so I haven’t been able to watch, but I have attended TRF for about the last decade.

[@matthewdarkhaven1078]

I grew up going and working there, but haven’t gone in the past couple years because it’s just become too inaccessible price wise. How’s it like (in your experience) lately, compared to a couple years ago?

[@JasTheMadTexan]

@@matthewdarkhaven1078 I generally have a good time so long as I’m wearing comfortable shoes and the people I’m with don’t piddle around too much

[@HoshiOdessa]

You haven't missed much. It was pretty ridiculous and somewhat boring. I mostly watched it to see if I could spot a few friends.

[@FortressofTrees]

So glad to see you comment on Ren Faire. I've only managed to make it through ep 1 (because I find myself less than comfortable with some of the main players of the piece), but I've been wondering what you thought. I'm nowhere near the industry, but I was really hoping to see more of the actual renfaire of it all too. Love your show, love your videos, and lots of love and respect to your wife for all she does behind the scenes! Enjoy Colorado and don't take too many cat paws to the face!

[@AzKarma2010]

You did better than me I could only make it 15 minutes and I turned it off because it just felt like total crap. As someone that mainly watches documentaries about real history and real people and things that actually do happen. It’s very hard for me to watch this made up basically reality show.

[@vozera723]

I haven't watched any of the series but I do know that Darla Smith, is the worst person to ever come across TRF.what went down with her and other people is part of the reason half of the people at the fair that used to camp/vendor no longer do so.

[@FortressofTrees]

@@vozera723 I haven't managed to make it through more than a few minutes of the second episode, so I actually haven't seen any of the footage about Darla, as that's where she first appears, I believe. Either way, I found most of the main subjects in episode 1 to be unsympathetic or just flat out awful people, and I can't imagine that that'd change in the followup eps. I'm sorry for the attendees and vendors who have had a bad experience at TRF as a result; too often people's egos and ambitions get in the way of serving the organizations/people/events that are supposed to be the focus.

[@vozera723]

@@FortressofTrees exactly 💯

[@stealthpaws]

She was awful. Absolutely awful.

[@Debbie338]

I had no idea the TRF is now the biggest in the world. But, I used to go regularly in the’80’s when I lived in Texas, and even then, you could barely see everything there was in two full days.

[@colleenrude6101]

@@Debbie338 they also say they are the oldest in the USA. Nope...California southern is older.

[@jasonflay8818]

I have a question for Jack, not Jacque. Would you because of your unique position of having a background in journalism, ever consider doing your own video series interviewing different performers and show people behind the curtain. I believe there are several members of the general public myself included that would be really fascinated to learn how different performers came about to that profession, and also learn and see the hours of practice and work to hone their particular skill. Also The artisans that travel in the same circuit would be interested to see how they have gotten to the types of art that they sell. Many of The artisans practice art that he uses traditional skills and it would be interesting to know why or how they ended up migrating towards using the traditional methods to create the art that they do. Again, you are in a very unique position to show this responsibly and as a performer I am certain that there would be a greater level of trust that you would represent them the way that they should be, but also you have the skill set to create a narrative that is factually based something a regular person with a camera may not necessarily be able to do.

[@Amcsae]

That would be *WONDERFUL!*

[@pendlera2959]

I would LOVE a 2+ hour Jenny Nicholson style video essay about ren fairs!

[@JonFalkner]

I would happily pay to see this.

[@anthonycatron646]

I love this format, awesome quality and the Olive Garden/ McDonald’s is an awesome metaphor.great video Jack!

[@Zelmel]

That last comment from one of your friends I think was very telling (and both well and carefully worded).

[@randiskye4444]

I'm so glad Scipio has gained his travel legs, and is now able to move in the 3rd dimension via open stairs. I hope your reflexes stay sharper than his claws!! I trim my cats' claws and still my boi gets me good sometimes. He's a real grump. Great "ren faire interest" piece!!

[@atticarcana278]

I grew up going to Ren Faires, and now I vend them (we were actually at the NJ Faire and we saw your show)! And one thing I did have to say about the Ren Faire culture over time is that I think attendee culture *has* changed, which the show doesn't touch on at all. As I said I am not a Faire performer but I am a vendor, which is something that the show *doesn't* touch on at all. Vendors are a *large* part of the scene, as you said. Especially because vendors have to be carefully curated for the aesthetics of a Faire. Vendor coordinators do so much work to make sure they're contracting the right types of vendors and the appropriate amount. Lastly, again, as someone who has gone to Faires practically all her life (I went as a newborn. My parents took me to my first one when I was under a year old), something I worry about with docu-fantasias is that they'll severely misrepresent another niche culture. Mainstream media / media companies do this to so many niche communities and then people who would normally have never stepped foot inside a Faire either (1) start coming and then get disappointed or entitled when it's not the experience they were expecting based off false expectations (see what I said about attendee culture) or (2) they start making unfair assumptions about the community or people who *do* attend them. I'm glad we have people like you, Jacques, who can very publicly dispel myths about the scene and speak about what is actually true and what isn't.

[@rebeccaburrow7199]

We used to go to TRF, but it got WAY too adult for our young children. We only go to Scarborough and Sherwood now. Much friendlier. I always try to get my hair braided by the Twisted Sisters!

[@callioscope]

You are served so well by your journalism gig because you speak authoritatively and with polish. I ❤ your short videos that show you thinking on your feet, but whenever you do long-form stuff, it is impressive. Cute kitty, too. We used to live in TX and went to the TRF many times … until we moved to Portland and downsized, we kept our daughter’s Queen of the May crown that she wore after being chosen one year. Great memories, lots of lavender soap, many turkey legs and memorable performances later … and that run-on sentence. 😱 Enjoy your summer in Colorado. Be thankful it is not Texas. We do every day. 😂

[@todderickson1073]

As cast at AZRF I absolutely laughed at the red bull comment. I cant tell you the number of times I've dropped the remainder of my monster into my mug as I walked towards the front gate for opening cannon. Kudos for a fair and even review of the show. Ive avoided the show to this point but hearing your take, I am more likely to watch it.

[@Trynsa]

Having been friends with AZRF cast members for years, I’ve heard this, or its equivalent, from many of them!

[@mickmash13]

I grew up in Houston & went to the TRF all through my childhood. It's interesting to hear about it from a performer's POV & some of the things you caught. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@SharonsCrafts]

I love Adventure Cat!

[@katereilly2188]

You're in Larkspur, Colorado?!? I'm so excited! When I first started watching you on YT, I never thought you would be right in our backyard (Denver). Enjoy our amazing state while you're here and get to the mountains! Now I have to think of a song to request when we see you! Yay!

[@jammygeez]

Your song requests are awesome! Its cool to see longer stuff

[@YNotBeeAntoine]

I have worked TRF for 18 years, and only just met him one time during the filming of this docu-fantasia (great description). I am grateful for this review. The problem with this whole thing (for me)is it casts a dark shadow over the people who actually work- who own shoppes, and, like you said- the ground level. Should have been called “The King of TRF”

[@sarachiappone4036]

I was glad to see a review of the show as a Ren fair vendor I was worried about the tiger king filter thing. But I had to laugh watching this as I'm sitting on the floor next to a case of energy drinks finishing up product to haul up to the Colorado Ren fest tomorrow 😂

[@Azylys-]

Didn't watch the show but enjoyed this video very much

[@Lazy_Fish_Keeper]

Adventure Cat needs to meet the Orange Lord of the SCA....who may be in Colorado with the Soap & Salve Maestro (aka, the adopted human, Kate)

[@JoanieBC]

I'm really looking forward to seeing this. Former ren faire pirate here. The truth of the behind-the-scenes activities of management, performers, and guilds is a show unto itself that would be a fun watch. Or disillusioning sight. Or shocking. Or boring. All depends on the day, the people involved, and how willing people would be to allow full access. You didn't mention the state of restrooms. Did they show any of that? Any faire I ever worked or attended, where performers and guild members and vendors spent the night on the premises, there was always restroom drama. Poopcasso and Versmear would leave nightly masterpieces to be discovered by all first thing in the morning. A team would have to come clean every inch of the facilities even more thoroughly than usual. Fun times. The "artists" were never apprehended. It continues to this day. (Yeah, it's gross to the uninitiated [and everyone else], but it's just another part of the BTS magic.) I worked family-centered faires. That doesn't mean there wasn't adult themed shows, games, and events, but they were advertised as such and restricted to areas where children weren't allowed-ish. It was fun, chaotic, hot, sweaty, dusty, exhausting, and almost always a joy. Almost always. When a faire/festival is managed well, the rules are clear and it's easy to comply with them. You do it because management makes it worthwhile and comfortable. Poor management leads to rebellion and resentment. Now, Scipio! Adventure Cat is doing very well! My cat became a ren faire Adventure Cat, was knighted by the Queen herself, and he had a good time. If it was terribly hot (as it often was, especially end of October-early November), Sir Fletch the Galumpher had ice in his water (or on his rug), he always had shade, and we gave him a cooling pad to rest his wee bones and murder mittens. I suspect Scipio will find himself similarly pampered quite soon. And he will very likely discover his fans are everywhere! Yes, he will be adored, exalted even! You'll have to get him his own climate-controlled traveler's wagon that you'll pull around the grounds. Scipio portraits drawn on parchment with his wee pawprint shall be made available for a few coin. His appearance fee will soon rival yours. And it'll be fine. Fine. Just fine. Everything's fine, great even. Yes, this is how it goes. Guests and faire workers alike will delight and bask in his beautiful ginger presence. (Maybe start training him to perform a few behaviors and include him in your show for 3-5 minutes?) While not all faires are amazing, there are always amazing people you'll work with, amazing guests to meet, and there's always something fun - whether on stage or BTS. Tis the nature of The Faire. P.S. the one act/game I created for the mature crowd: Cleavage Coin Catch. My bodice allowed for quite generous cleavage to gather coin of the realm when tossed - never thrown, never hurled - by adult faires goers. It was a hit, but didn't continue due to short tempers (from all) in the extreme heat. Coin + sweat = irritation of delicate flesh. It was fun and profitable while it lasted. Hope you whip the competition, while not cracking under adverse conditions, and only snap when appropriate.

[@terrio1306]

Went to the Oregon Ren Fair this past weekend (last one I attended was 20 years ago) and maybe being older I got to wondering just what the ren fair circuit life was like. You know, the practical things, like income vs. cost of travel, health insurance (because, you know, we live in the USA). Those with families and dealing with that. How you decide which fairs to attend, etc. I would love it if you could give us some insight.

[@faeriedust52]

OMG THE HAT CONVERSATION. Or headpieces. And shoes. So many conversations about shoes. 😂 the Red Bull too. The amount of things I have put into my ren faire cups, bowls, etc. 🤣

[@Ziggy-uk1bn]

Really appreciate all you do! 💪 Love seeing your perspective on HBO's "Ren Faire".

[@figmo397]

Thanks for your take on it (even though I don't get HBO and haven't seen it). I'm part of the science fiction running community, and we have a lot of overlap with the RennFaire community (read: many RennFaire folks are either virtual or real family members, some of whom you may know because they work the same faires you work). When I was working at the local news station as a reporter/anchor when the world science fiction convention was in town, part of my job on the concom was to make sure the press coverage was accurate at my station and at the stations where my friends worked (read: the other stations running news in the area).

[@Jacktheripper62]

So weird to see him without a curly mustache

[@margaretwordnerd5210]

His face looks naked. Still an adorable cat daddy.🐈

[@ElijahForLong]

He's freshly shaven for the video.

[@MKPiatkowski]

I love it

[@LunarVixen]

i know right!?!?

[@lloydlego6088]

This is the first time I saw a long form video. I subscribed. I love your content. I think you would make an amazing documentary. The company I work for puts on a film festival every year. I am fascinated by the modern day nomads who work multiple film festivals per year. They all seem to have lots of fun. Although what they consider fun would be dental surgery without pain killers.

[@thomasbecker9676]

The idea that a Ren Faire employee has to have period accurate clothing is hilarious. Ren Faire's are the furthest thing from historically accurate.

[@fbail7124]

Thank you for clearing that up cause as someone who frequents ren fairs but has never been to TRF, there is a lot of information floating around that may or may not be hyperbolized. Glad the Red Bull debacle got cleared away though, now I know what to actually order for others at the bar!

[@ericepperson8409]

I've been to a few different Faires. Colorado is a our home one now and IMO the best of those I've been to. TRF is massive, but getting in and out of it can take hours since the town around it is pathetic. And it's not like you are really missing a lot. Many of the same acts around, lots of the same kind of vendors, and most of the same games. Where many faires will have 2-3 sword vendors, TRF has 5-6. Rather than 5-6 stalls to shoot a bow - they have 2 dozen. It does hold the distinction of being the only place you can ride an Elephant though.

[@lyschilds-wiley3016]

@@ericepperson8409 Scarborough also has elephant and camel rides.

[@mitrolltv]

Sooo so accurate on the energy drink to start the day of the weekend. There is load up and tear down, 6 hour drives one way to get to the faire grounds....and camping outside.

[@SylverMage]

Our dear Red at OSP calls things like that contrived dialogue "the hand of the author", and it can really take the reader/viewer out of the media. Jack's combined experience with Ren Faires and Radio and TV makes this so interesting! Also, his "we'll talk to you later" about Scipio has such Radio vibes :P Glad Scipio is getting to experience the world!

[@ErisianRomantic]

Yo. I work Sherwood(the Funnel Cake Guy). I'm think I used to haunt your show at Scarborough one year, doing pretzels I am so glad to see you do this. Honestly, I'm a bit disappointed Noone from Sherwood figured to react to this new movie. Regardless, I am super happy to see this documentary on the Faire I went to a bunch as a kid, and I look forward to the rest or your, and your cat's, video!

[@christinebarr]

I worked TRF in the 80s, took a 30+ year break, and will be celebrating my 10th season on cast (after my return ) this year. I avoided the documentary crew the whole time they were filming, as once you sign that release, they can do anything they like with the footage. We'll see what it does for attendance . . . say howdy to Catherine of Aragon, viewers, if you come this year!

[@swashbucklr]

I am already looking forward to the Jacquesumentary about the life and times of Jacques ze Whipper.

[@phaedrapage4217]

Complete with an in-depth interview with his dad!

[@susanmcginn856]

Adventure cat!! Our cat Katie drove coast to coast with us when we moved from DC to the Bay Area and ended up loving it - glad your kitty is with you too!

[@Keonyte]

I'd like a documentary on the MN Ren Fest and the drama of it slowly being consumed by mining for special dirt while the fest can't find anywhere to move to.

[@Llynnyia]

The Black Point rennfaire had our location taken over by housing... the got hexes and now those luxury houses have flooded basements. I hope your location at least gets vindication like ours did. As for hope nor cal eventually moved to casa de Fruita and it's really nice however not really in a "Northern" location.

[@Mousezilla]

Could title it "The Nothing Grows."

[@janeenschultz8502]

Ah, Shakopee Faire. I only kind of miss working there.

[@sylvertry]

@@Llynnyia Ah! Without actually looking it up, I’ve wondered where the Black Pointe Renn Faire found a home. I haven’t been back to Renn Faire since the last year it was at Black Point

[@Mousezilla]

@@janeenschultz8502 Mood. Sometimes I think I miss it, then I realize I just miss how I remember it.

[@amandasullivan7823]

I like the "for two months" added in there. Reminds me of when I was on the road at the New York Ren Fair in Harriman. Great show.

[@Ninavask]

As someone who has worked Ren Faire for almost 3/4ths of my Life now I have not been able to decide whether I wanted to watch Ren Faire or not. I think I'll at least give it a shot now knowing its not trying to be a pure documentary. Shame it doesn't seem to see all that background and behind the scenes life of a performer though!

[@TarynIona]

Still a little trepidatious about watching it, as I too have been doing Ren Faire for way too much of my lifetime, but it's a part of my life I can't get rid of. I will walk into it with an open mind of it's not going to be as it felt like it was going to be, thanks to the trailers, but also it's perhaps a take on one tiny aspect of what Ren Faire life is really all about.

[@mixsae7764]

I recommend watching it. As the season gets deeper and more folks watch it and attend a faire, things are gonna come up that as entertainers, vendors or workers we may need to answer, clarify and explain. Knowing what they saw and heard will help navigate those conversations.

[@djkiltech]

So I JUST found out you're gonna be at the Maryland Renaissance Faire! I'm so excited! I AM SO GONNA BE THERE just to see you.

[@JacquesZeWhipper]

Yup, the first six weekends: jackthewhipper.com

[@djkiltech]

@@JacquesZeWhipper I'm REALLY excited! I haven't been out to MDRF in a few years, but I'm definitely getting tickets for at least one of the dates you'll be there!

[@Marquise1]

Merci to you to share yor unique and honnest perspective of both the media and your experience and travelling cat companion. ❤

[@Chlobeaarr]

that moustache is one hell of a disguise.. took me around 4 minutes to realise its Jacques Ze Whipper

[@JacquesZeWhipper]

And people say Superman's glasses wouldn't work as a disguise...

[@Chlobeaarr]

@@JacquesZeWhipper apparently its the hair too! 🤣your new vid is great!

[@rowenabaliho881]

Coming home from work, new vid from Jacques is online, Scipio content in first 5 minutes... Could not be better. 🎉

[@Melvionushul]

Adventure Cat!❤ (also nice phone case color)

[@Wednesday24790]

Wow I never thought Jacques would react to something like this but he's full of surprises. I never thought I'd be one of the first comments so...... 😂 hi Jacques keep doing what your doing spreading so much love around this community it really means a lot teaching people about the good side of whips and telling them that we can put history behind us you really do make a difference ❤

[@GeorgiaRinker]

Coming from someone who works PRF but has NOT seen the docu-fantaseries, I have heard a lot of opinions from those who have seen it. You make a good point, though. An actual series depicting ren faire workers across the country from maitenence, food service, vendors, cast members and independent acts would be a VERY interesting show and could canvas the entire lifestyle that is faire work. When I got into this, it was one of the things that fascinated me; especially with independent acts, much like you, who have been doing it their whole lives. As a whole, people don't know about the culture, they don't know about the experience and the magic that coming to the faire is and while social media has helped paint us in a different light, it's still either "what's a ren faire?" or, like you said, the assumption that we are all generalized nerds like in an early 2000's high school drama. I understand that a big series that ends up on HBO is heavily and very carefully scripted and even the Merpeople show on Netflix (that depicted the Circus Siren Pod at PRF) had a few candid moments but was likely scripted overall. A nice, real ren faire docu-series would be SUCH a great idea.

[@gulnarkaur4313]

Off topic but blud is rocking those Greys

[@SyrenDeeVOA]

I love that phone case because it’s BEAUTIFUL. Also that red bull moment mention brought back VISCERAL memories of watching nationals either slam a Red Bull or absolutely pour it into their mugs. So real.

[@LVRugger]

I still miss you on NPR here in Boston.

[@KBWeeds]

Such a good orange boy Adventure cat!!

[@ms.ingmarbles]

Good luck with the new angle of swipe attacks. Thanks for review of the HBO show - I was a bit horrified by the trailer (neither Tiger King or Succession are my go to style of tv entertainment tho' lots and lots of folk loved both those shows). Looking forward to your show in Larkspur.

[@the_channel_with_no_name]

Commenting before watching... so happy to see you made a video on your thoughts!! I've got big opinions!! Looking forward to what a performer thinks!!

[@lilysong1321]

TRF is a huge deal to my family and we haven’t been able to go for a few years. One the prices are outrageous now, two I have a kid and our family rule is TRF after 21 only. Scarborough is my “home” Faire so I do go almost every year and that I feel ok taking my son to. I wasn’t aware of this show but I appreciate your words on it.

[@stephanieatkins8617]

You should also check out Sherwood Forest in Paige, Texas! I went a few years ago and opening weekend was WAY less crowded (but it was also 2021). I went to Scarborough Faire a few decades ago and loved it!

[@toulousegoose1150]

That's a shame that it doesn't show what things are like behind the scenes! Thanks for sharing your opinion of it.

[@Annie5.56]

Thank you for the review! It would be a shame if TRF was ever changed. As a native texan, who worked the ren faire circuit as a pirate in the 90’s. TRF is magical and hands down the best faire in the state. The actors are amazing and so playful with everyone! That’s so amazing your dad worked TRF! Thank you and your colleagues for your take on the show! ❤️

[@SilverFoxfire]

I got to see you last year for my first ever Ren Faire - at the Larkspur one! That was super fun, and I still have the little pins I got from you.

[@serenausagi676]

I’m originally from Colorado, but live in Texas now, and I’m going back to Colorado to get married in a month. My family wants to go to the Renfaire and I saw that you were going to be there and I am so excited!!

[@tb2360]

As someone who is close to TRF, my heart breaks at possibly never seeing you there =) I understand why you wouldnt go, but man!

[@planesight1142]

hiya, cast and stage performer since 1994. ... 7:00 we MUST wear a hat, Sumptuary LAW states all must wear a woolen hat, it was putinto place to grow the wool industry.

[@ishtarelisheba]

Less than a minute in and I have to leave a comment. KITTY!! Your cat looks so much like my kitty Molly who died way back at the very beginning of covid that it hurts my heart a little. Please tell him he's a gorgeous, good good boy.

[@shopgirlkc333]

After watching this video, I went and watched RenFaire. I'm grateful I had the heads up about certain things. While watching it, I mainly thought, "I want to see more of the RenFaire." I wanted to see the people who work there, the guests, the scenery, the shows. We didn't get much of that. I also wondered why they didn't even provide us with a map and an overview of TRF. I never got a good sense of any of that. It was interesting for what it was, and, if they had shown more of that, then maybe we wouldn't have gotten as many behind-the-scenes meetings with leadership, etc. Anyway. I hope to learn more about the Renaissance world over time.

[@RichardGallagher-vw5xr]

Covering that hairline with a hat is like having a penthouse view and closing the drapes.

[@lyharris1970]

Really well explained! Glad you covered the issues of how the docu-fantasy (really??? 🙄) was produced as well as the emotions and political issues that it brings up. There’s a podcast about TRF called Renaissance, TX , I’ve only heard a few episodes of it. It’s harrowing.

[@Beetsa]

Certainly agree on it being a little short on covering ren faires, definitely expected at least another couple episodes. Another point I'll make without spoilers is that the pacing and introduction of some subjects seemed a bit off for something so directed. Also just checked your site and I'll miss ya at King Richard's this year! Your show is a go-to every time I attend.

[@Merrydragon76]

Your phone case is fine, your orange son is the bestest boy, and I’d love to see this show because I’ve been to the TRF a few times, back when I lived in Houston. I remember it as being a pretty good faire.

[@jenniferhanses]

Most cats tend to have motion sickness in cars. That's the usual problem for them. Interesting review. This brought to mind another ren faire-themed thing that's coming up. Hunt a Killer is doing their next season of murder mystery surrounding a murder at a ren faire. Perhaps that might also be fun to review.

[@gatorcamper659]

You have an amazing “voice for radio” AND a “face for TV”, plus a brain and talent. Total package!! As my shtick is slapstick I have a question: Can you incorporate some pie in the face fun in your awesome act? You’d look great in a a pie…..

[@TrineDaely]

A reputation for being eccentric among the Renn Faire crowd... 🙀

[@cynthiamoseley4267]

TRF attendee here... Thanks for the heads up that this show exists. Got to go watch it!

[@gabrieldavenport2127]

I love how honest the review is, and it’s amazing to get a peek into a performers perspective. That being said, lots of people came to the comments for the cat. I am no different 😂😂 he reminds me of the fat(healthy, but with a literal fat pouch hanging😂),orange tabby, named Sammy, that I had in my later teenage years. When my parents split up, dad complained about having to take care of him while I was gone, and made me take my fur baby with me everywhere I went…so I did. Every week was somewhere different. From my dads to my moms to my grandmas. I also had him somewhat harness trained, though he hated it. When I finally got my own place, I had 2 jobs and no one wanted to clean the litter box, so he became an inside/outside cat…which he was happy with, but we believe that the same dog who lived down the road and destroyed our chicken tractor to kill our chickens, probably also got ahold of Sammy. My husband found the body. I was devastated…but long story short, seeing your interactions and life with your furbaby reminds me of the good times, and I just wanted to say thank you

[@DawnDavidson]

So sorry for your loss. We had a cat killed by a wild dog pack on 9/11 (yes, THAT 9/11). My condolences.

[@mysticpirate]

As an artist who somehow managed three years ago to stumble into the Ren Faire world and now can’t imagine any other life, I was avoiding this thing HBO did like the plague. My very first faire I ever worked was TRF, it was not the best of experiences, I swore to never go back and so far have found a circuit that keeps me far from it. Now after watching your very diplomatic review, I’m at least inclined to sit and watch it with others if that’s what the group chooses. But it’s not something I’ll ever watch for my own enjoyment/curiosity. Thank you for this though.

[@PhoenixVic21]

I haven't heard of this show, but your thoughts are interesting. As someone "not in the industry" and that just goes to their local faire a few times a year, I'd honestly love seeing an actual show/movie/documentary thing on ren faire and how acts/vendors get it to work and how they travel! My biggest question is always the travel part cause I just think of a bunch of RV/tiny houses moving faire to faire 😅 I know that's not 100% accurate though. I'd love seeing something that interview the "main stage acts" on how they got started and travel and make it all work, some while also with kids. Even interviews with the "street acts" would be cool. Also show off all the vendors ❤ I'd love seeing a "peak behind the curtain" to the magic I experience as a guest ❤

[@RamDragon32]

I'm only 2 minutes in, and I gotta say, they don't really have to try to make King George and his inner circle look weird. They'd have to work pretty hard to make em look weirder. If they really wanted weird, they'd just have to go find The Encampment. With all that outa the way, Texas Ren Faire is absolutely my favorite ren fair in the world. Haven't been the last few years because I live too far away to make the trip. Hopefully this year I'll make it back. I have a friend who worked that fair for a couple of decades but moved a couple of years ago. He's gonna be upset he missed that opportunity. He was very involved both onstage and behind the scenes.

[@jennamahaffy9553]

I would love a KZbin series showing the behind the scenes ren fair set up/break/down/preshow/practices that would be so good. I laughed so hard at the energy drink because that is 100% accurate. I worked for a state fair in Michigan one summer and even just those are a ton of work to literally build and take apart the rides Every time you love towns so crazy the ren fair would be a sight to see set up for.

[@peggywoods4327]

I think Jacques should make an appearance at Castlefest in the Netherlands. We would love you there!

[@spunkydiva]

That is my fav dragon - they are at Sherwood!!!!! The hat thing always gets me. I love my flower crown.

[@hurricanejeffries4606]

We have an adventure cat too. She travels around the country with us. She hangs out in the dashboard while we drive.

[@greywater3186]

“In” the dashboard?

[@pendlera2959]

That seems like it would be bad if you had to brake really hard or if you got rear ended. Kitty missile. :(

[@govhermirzemmedova4044]

When captain America drop the shield take the whip😂😂

[@beckyg2604]

I'll have to check this out! I worked a booth at TRF years ago, and there were definitely some characters there, although I don't think I ever met King George.

[@Nirrrina]

For thise who's cats get stressed out you can try Feliway cat pheromones. Or for dogs it's Adaptil. They release the same pheromones as the mother animal releases to tell their young they're safe. It comes in a 30 day collar, a diffuser for multiple animals & a spray that goes on a towel for occasional use. Beware other brands relaxicat had 0.10% pheromones whereas Feliway uses 10% pheromones. For an example my friends dog on the 4th of July would spend days hiding under the desk shaking & refused to go out to porty. With Adaptil he was moving around, playing, eating & he went outside to go potty. Quickly but he went out at least. A lot of vets use the diffusers to help animals.

[@JacquesZeWhipper]

We found the collar and it's been very helpful, actually!

[@wettailtimberwolf1996]

Also vets can give some nausea meds to help that first day of travel.

[@Mineralchick]

Never heard of the this or the show, so interesting to hear about. I also had never thought about the park after a rain and the steps they would need to take. Wish you could do a little photo series on the 'back scene' of Ren Faire.