(no subject)

Well, there are re-enactment groups and there are re-enactment groups. The one we are currently hosting is - frankly sadly boring. Their kit and accountrements are excellent - it's not everday you see 'rivetted' mail, believe me. Rivetting trebles the cost and it's expensive enough as it is. I think the problem is a bit more one of attitude. There's one very strident and assertive man and everybody kow-tows to him serviley and always have one eye on him to see if they are doing it right. This is a pity beause they obviously know their stuff and their nervousness makes them very tentative in putting across the information to the public. I mean, it's not Disneyland, there's no need to 'be Mickey Mouse' just because they are in costume. Bash out the information in as entertaining a manner as possible with all the jokes and twiddly bits the kids remember and if someone says 'why're you dressed like that?' give 'em a lecture on fabrics and dyes and costume!
Also too many of them were wearing black for an authentic 12th century mob. It's OK for Hollywood but a good fast black dye didn't become available until the 15th century. Nit picking I know, but I've spent the past week being told how brilliant they are and dye stuffs are standard research!
On a more personal note, migraine is the pits.
Also today is Kate's birthday - I was tempted to send a rude card but resisted! Happy birthday Kate, and many more of them.