Our Company motto is: Pro Funii et Educatio ( terrible dog Latin for ‘for fun and education’!)
I usually give my presentations in the role of a Knight of The Order of the Hospital of St. John in Jerusalem. The Knights Hospitaller were a mini world unto themselves, covering and dealing with all aspects of medieval life. This makes my character useful in that I can deal with any and all aspects of the medieval era. Additionally, The Hospitallers played an important part in three areas covered in the history national curriculum: life in a medieval castle, pilgrimages and the crusades. The Knights played a varied and important role in English and Scottish political and social life throughout the medieval era.
In addition to The Knights, I also portray most of the other religious orders, specialising in the Dominicans (Order of Preachers - Blackfriars), Franciscans (OFM & Grey Friars), Benedictines and Gilbertines (the only Order originating in England).
Although I generally portray a religious character I do not have a religious agenda and certainly do not preach. Religion was a vital and integral part of the medieval world. I deal with the subject sensitively and professionally. To fail to mention it is to be false to the era and to give a warped representation of European history.
I also portray purely civilian characters including a medieval farmer and my speciality a woodworker and hurdle maker. This can involve audience participation – hurdle making is not as easy as it looks!
I am joined regularly by Sr Elspeth, when portraying religious characters, or Goody Elspeth in a variety of civilian roles.
In the 21st century I am a professional historian and costumed presenter with a clear CRB. I have a 5 million pound public liability insurance and am a St John Ambulance First Aider (includes Health & Safety at Work). ( Elspeth is also an active member of St John and a former mental health care worker) I am an accredited member of Tabulae
I am available for evening presentations, full day events, weekends, festivals, week-long events, birthday parties or for school visits. I can give the presentations in a classroom, with a handful of props or outside with a fully furnished medieval pavilion.
I am, almost, infinitely adaptable and am very happy to prepare a specific presentation.
If you would like additional information or would like to discuss any other details regarding the presentations I would be delighted to meet you.