We were a group of eleven, nine reps and two supervisors, and we were assigned seating in the Yellow, Black & White, and Red sections as we entered through the Tower. Some of us opted for photos with King Philippe and Princess Leonore as we entered, while others chose not to be photographed, and then we headed to the Tavern. Unfortunately, our wonderful barmaid, Wench Courtney, did not have the ingredients for my favorite drink, a Chocolate Cake Shooter, but she did offer to make me a drink of her own concoction, called a "Yummo." Topped off with cherries and grenadine, it was definitely worthy.
We took our drinks to the tables by the great fireplace in the Hall of Arms and sat around talking and people-watching for a while. It was great fun to see the people walking around the castle, enjoying the Marketplace, the Medieval Torture museum (which I did not visit this go 'round, but it is definitely worth the price of admission...$1 to get in, $1 to get out), and watching the King perform Knighting ceremonies. We also got to hear the Falconer speak about the birds used during the show and I got a pretty good shot of Kratos, the Eurasion Eagle Owl that resides in the castle.
**Sidenote: It occurred to me while we were waiting for the call to table that it would be interesting to have games to play, or musicians playing, or maybe even just a little more cast interaction during the pre-show. There are a number of medieval-era board games that were popular - wouldn't it be interesting if they were set up on the tables for people to play and enjoy? I also found some information on a game called "King of the Bean," which involved a small bean baked into bread or cake...the guest who found it would be crowned "King" of the feast at various holiday events. Fun!
About fifteen minutes prior to show-time, the call to table was announced, and we were let into the Arena based on the sections we'd been assigned upon entrance. I was seated with Billie, a fellow call center rep, in the second row of the Black & White section (that of Don Iofre Santa Creu, the defender of the ancient shrine at Santiago de Compostela). I do admit a touch of disappointment that it was second row seating, as I have never experienced the show from anything but the first row, but I guess it's good for comparison. I know now that I definitely prefer the first row!
Our server was a lovely wench named Jessica, who explained how the meal would work, then the lights dimmed and we were off! In the new show, the Princess now has a husband, Prince Tristan. He is called off to Leone to sign a peace treaty between the two kingdoms, leaving his bride lonely and bereft.
She bolsters, though, and announces an exciting tournament of events, beginning with a show of the castle's beautiful Andalusian stallions and a live flight of the falcon. The animals used by Medieval Times are beautiful and obviously very well cared for and the Spanish dressage presentation is timeless and lovely.
Meanwhile, we were being served the delicious four-course feast by our serving wench, Jessica. As always, the food was delicious. My favorite is the tomato bisque soup and garlic bread...could eat that every single day! The meal is served "Medieval-style," which translates to "no silverware." A little messy, but napkins and wet towels are provided, so that's ok. Plus, it's dark in the Arena for the most part, and nobody else is watching you tear into your chicken.
Eventually we got into the meat of the show...the competition of jousting, and other Knightly games of skill. Of course, boys being boys (Knights being Knights?) the competition did not remain friendly and fighting ensued. Unfortunately, Don Iofre was taken out almost immediately, so we had to switch our allegiances to the Yellow and Red Knights, who were both holding their own for a time. Eventually, the Yellow Knight (Don Eduardo del Rey) won the day and all was well within the Kingdom.
All in all, it was a very fun and exciting evening for all involved. Now I just have to fend off all of my Facebook and blog friends who want to know when I'm taking THEM to the show!
