This is the latest incarnation of Teh Cwazy:
I'd like to at least consider an event that was designed as basically a "Royal University of the Midrealm Freshmen Orientation," if you will. A newcomer-oriented event. But a little more than that. Because nobody likes to go to an event by themselves, and so there needs to be a reason for at least some of the Olde Pharts to attend as well. So, this is the current version of insanity knocking about it my head:
Newcomer classes. And not so much of the "Beginning Nalebinding" variety. More adjusting to the anthropology of the SCA: How to Create a Persona, How to Watch a Tourney, Known World Geography, A Field Guide to Metallic Headgear.. etc. Probably also some garb basics and such. But largely an orientation.
Make-n-Takes. Tables in a large room that will allow people to sit down and learn a skill that involves taking with them a Useful Object. (Pouch, belt, favor, etc.) Something simple enough that it can either be completed on site or at home without help from the instructor. People who are presenting them can set materials' fees and/or require pre-reg.
Project Gold Key - Teams from local groups show up with sewing machines, an outfit (the more horrible, the better) from their groups' Gold Key that no one wants to wear, up to 4 yds of additional material and up to 10 yds of trim. There will then be a "twist" which I am not currently revealing. :-D and they'll have a given time period to "make over" the Gold Key garb. We'll also provide a "trade table" of fabric and trim that can be used (but they must leave an equivalent item ON the table). Thus, the "Trade Table" materials can come back for a later event. Fashion show to follow, basins on each work station for "bean count" voting.
Dueling Dayboards - Teams from local groups may present a Dayboard (restricted to a single time/place) of period foods. This will let us introduce new people to period food in a "tasting menu" setting. And, again, basins for "bean count" voting.
Combat demos and lectures - "Easy ways to hide modern gear," "What you need for your first kit," etc. Also maybe a demo of Tourney Styles and chivalry schtick with appropriate Ladies' Gallery. How to salute your opponent, your lady, etc.
A Royal Patroness - I'd love to have one of the Ladies of the Rose both play Hostess with the Mostess - AND allow Gen Rose to set up "Ladies in Waiting" - Retainer training in a non-threatening setting that doesn't actually involve the K&Q. Maybe start with her "How to Retain" class and then do shifts waiting on Her Grace/Excellency. If we could also get one the guys to play along, any of the gentlemen that would like could do the same, "Valet for a Day" if you will. And take home a token - GenRose's Certified Trained Retainers!!
I'd like for all the newbies to go home with a pack of good info, and inspired to do MORE than just stand in the corners and watch.
Thoughts? Suggestions? Offers to supple a Straight Jacket?
I'd like to at least consider an event that was designed as basically a "Royal University of the Midrealm Freshmen Orientation," if you will. A newcomer-oriented event. But a little more than that. Because nobody likes to go to an event by themselves, and so there needs to be a reason for at least some of the Olde Pharts to attend as well. So, this is the current version of insanity knocking about it my head:
Newcomer classes. And not so much of the "Beginning Nalebinding" variety. More adjusting to the anthropology of the SCA: How to Create a Persona, How to Watch a Tourney, Known World Geography, A Field Guide to Metallic Headgear.. etc. Probably also some garb basics and such. But largely an orientation.
Make-n-Takes. Tables in a large room that will allow people to sit down and learn a skill that involves taking with them a Useful Object. (Pouch, belt, favor, etc.) Something simple enough that it can either be completed on site or at home without help from the instructor. People who are presenting them can set materials' fees and/or require pre-reg.
Project Gold Key - Teams from local groups show up with sewing machines, an outfit (the more horrible, the better) from their groups' Gold Key that no one wants to wear, up to 4 yds of additional material and up to 10 yds of trim. There will then be a "twist" which I am not currently revealing. :-D and they'll have a given time period to "make over" the Gold Key garb. We'll also provide a "trade table" of fabric and trim that can be used (but they must leave an equivalent item ON the table). Thus, the "Trade Table" materials can come back for a later event. Fashion show to follow, basins on each work station for "bean count" voting.
Dueling Dayboards - Teams from local groups may present a Dayboard (restricted to a single time/place) of period foods. This will let us introduce new people to period food in a "tasting menu" setting. And, again, basins for "bean count" voting.
Combat demos and lectures - "Easy ways to hide modern gear," "What you need for your first kit," etc. Also maybe a demo of Tourney Styles and chivalry schtick with appropriate Ladies' Gallery. How to salute your opponent, your lady, etc.
A Royal Patroness - I'd love to have one of the Ladies of the Rose both play Hostess with the Mostess - AND allow Gen Rose to set up "Ladies in Waiting" - Retainer training in a non-threatening setting that doesn't actually involve the K&Q. Maybe start with her "How to Retain" class and then do shifts waiting on Her Grace/Excellency. If we could also get one the guys to play along, any of the gentlemen that would like could do the same, "Valet for a Day" if you will. And take home a token - GenRose's Certified Trained Retainers!!
I'd like for all the newbies to go home with a pack of good info, and inspired to do MORE than just stand in the corners and watch.
Thoughts? Suggestions? Offers to supple a Straight Jacket?