Metro Weekly

Mad for Medieval in Alexandria

Medieval MadnessTouted as an out-of-the-ordinary experience, Alexandria’s Medieval Madness blends the fields of art and history — and not simply by way of historical reenactment, though there is plenty of that in this adventure set in 15th-century England and featuring court jesters, men in tights and battling knights trained by the European Martial Arts Academy. Medieval Madness is mainly a comedy show. But don’t take our word for it. Here’s how the Medieval Madness folks describe their mission on their website:

  • Comedy, comedy, comedy.
  • We are here to make your day better whether you like it not.
  • We have, in-house, nationally-known writing talent, talent that creates a brand-new, live show every four months.
  • Our feasts are prepared as a true medieval feast would have been, only without the funk.
  • We actually serve 14th century style food. We give true meaning to the term “golden oldie’s.”
  • Much of our music is taken right out of history.
  • Our costuming is accurate to the detail from the 15th Century but smells better.
  • We only carry ale, beer and wine created by vineyards and breweries where were operating prior to 1453 under the same ownership as today. As close as we can, you actually drink medieval beer and wine as it was then.
  • Our martial arts are just that. Our own martial artists compete live with real armor, real swords and the real techniques of the period. We do not script or choreograph this.
  • Our Great Hall is stuffed with hand-made crafts and arts, right down to the chairs you sit upon and the tables you eat off.
  • Our own staff constantly studies history and the arts to improve their knowledge and performance levels. We just wish it showed.

We reckon you’ll laugh your bollocks off. Or get very soused on medieval ale. Or both. Through Oct. 21, with evening shows Thursdays through Saturdays and four-course “feasts” on Fridays and Saturdays. At Renaissance Hall, 710 King St. (appropriately enough) in Alexandria. Tickets are $59. Call 703-329-3075 or visit medievalmadness.com.

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