Our constantly expanding Entertainment Department boasts hundreds of performers that bring our streets and stages to life each weekend. The department has a few different options for joining.

Guilds

Theatrically, the guilds make up the different types of villagers living in Willingtown and the characters that would be visiting the town for the annual Market Faire. The peasants, middle class, constables and washer women are a few of the types that would reside in Willingtown. The Queen’s courtiers, guardsmen and military are groups that would be visiting. Most of these guilds accept new members each year through simple informal auditions and interviews. All guild members attend workshops. Guild recruitment starts on registration day. The registration and workshop process will be explained below.

Theme Characters

Actors audition or are appointed to specific roles that make up the leading historical characters of the time, such as Queen Elizabeth, William Shakespeare or Sir Francis Drake. They also portray the local prominent townsfolk such as the Mayor, the Sheriff and their families. Auditions for available roles will be posted on the web site in this section.

Contracted Stage Acts

Most Stage Shows are contracted circuit acts that perform a specified number of weekends. These acts are generally hired several months in advance prior to the season. Stage Acts interested in applying should contact the Entertainment Director at Entertainment@NorcalRenFaire.com starting in January.

 Entertainment Workshops and Registration

Workshops are provided free of charge and are required to join. They are informal, fun and brief. These workshops will guide prospective performers on appropriate costuming, the language of the time, improvisation and a variety of subjects that will prepare people for participation.

All perspective performers must register and attend a specified number of workshops in order to participate. Registration begins with a general meeting held at 10:00AM sharp on Saturday August 9^th at the large Royal Garden Stage on the faire site. Special interactive group training will take place that day with workshops continuing on August 1o^th, 16^{th and} 17^th with limited classes on the 23^rd.  All participants will need to attend at least three days of workshops to fulfill the requirements to receive a pass.  

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and good walking shoes. Bring a lawn chair or other portable seating, pack a lunch and sunscreen. On select weekends sandwiches and snacks are available to purchase on site.

First time registrants will be guided through the required classes and process at registration. Participants must register in person at the faire site. If you are unable to attend on the 9^th, Entertainment applicants may still register on the 10^th, or 16^th.  After Applicants register, attend the required workshops, and have their costume approved, a pass will be issued to participate.

The entire cast participates at our annual Dress Rehearsal and Media Day held Sunday August 31^st.

All participants must adhere to costume guidelines designated by the management.   Official Costume approval is required to participate. Workshops are available to guide new participants through these guidelines and costume construction.