Big Fun
We hosted a little, tiny deed of arms at Melee Madness this past weekend. It was really simple, just a few ladies (around 8) in the gallery and a handful of fighters (10 or so) willing to amuse us by letting us choose pairings, weapons and number of blows - and whether or not to use the barrier. I was worried that no one would "get it" and there would be long, awkward pauses and confusion. I was worried that an event that was all about melee would not be the right place to sell the concept.
Instead - the ladies seemed to grasp the concept instantly - and had mad fun choosing fighters and weapons. The fighters seemed to really enjoy that the ladies were watching closely and had fun showing off for us. I had picked up some pairs of taper candles as little prizes for the ladies to award, and I felt bad that I didn't have enough for everyone. Afterward, everyone involved commented that it was the best part of the day.
We got the nicest email this morning from one of the participants who said it was the highlight of 15 years of fighting in the SCA. My first thought was that he needs to get out more - but it truly was just an absolute blast.
Husband and I have been talking for some time about how to sell the concept of a more authentic style of fighting to a larger audience - but I think maybe it sells itself in the right circumstances. We've written an article for the July newsletter with an intro to the deed of arms, and we're hoping to write a few more with some specifics to set up the Kingdom for some deeds over the next year. After this past weekend, I'm really hoping we succeed. I haven't had that much fun at an event in a long time.
Big fun.
Instead - the ladies seemed to grasp the concept instantly - and had mad fun choosing fighters and weapons. The fighters seemed to really enjoy that the ladies were watching closely and had fun showing off for us. I had picked up some pairs of taper candles as little prizes for the ladies to award, and I felt bad that I didn't have enough for everyone. Afterward, everyone involved commented that it was the best part of the day.
We got the nicest email this morning from one of the participants who said it was the highlight of 15 years of fighting in the SCA. My first thought was that he needs to get out more - but it truly was just an absolute blast.
Husband and I have been talking for some time about how to sell the concept of a more authentic style of fighting to a larger audience - but I think maybe it sells itself in the right circumstances. We've written an article for the July newsletter with an intro to the deed of arms, and we're hoping to write a few more with some specifics to set up the Kingdom for some deeds over the next year. After this past weekend, I'm really hoping we succeed. I haven't had that much fun at an event in a long time.
Big fun.