Fridda, Seneschal of the Otago Canton
Members of the Otago Canton have just attended their first Canterbury Faire which was proof of what the SCA can offer where hard work, dedication and experience come together with the SCA ethos. The six day event, held in warm, nay, hot, February weather in a lovely setting in North Canterbury was a great introduction to that remarkable organisation, the SCA.
Whether for authentic food, workshops in calligraphy, forging, music history, dancing, pottery, garbmaking, whether for archery or rapier, whether for feasting, formal ceremony or just hanging out in garb with fellow devotees, there's no doubt the six days were full of colour and action. It is clear the gentles of the Barony have been working hard for many years to finetune the running of the Event and no wonder members come from all over the Kingdom to participate.
It was very special to have the reigning Monarchs, King Alfar and Queen Gudrun, in attendance at Court and much baronial business took place in the great hall and in the marquee allowing us to appreciate the accomplishment and service which so amply warrants the bestowing of the awards made there.
The Canton was presented with a very generous gift of silver platters. A key of fine proportions was also presented to us and Finnr, our scaldic poet, impressed the company with his poem celebrating the character of each of the baronies which comprise the Kingdom. The Canton was honoured to entertain their Royal Majesties to luncheon and to present Queen Gudrun with a gift of gold anglosaxon beads.
The Canton also presented a pouch of chain mail links amongst the awards at the Fighters Auction.
At the Ball we had an opportunity to show our proficiency at the dance steps we have been learning and to sport our finest garb and the masks we have made in our recent workshops.
All in all, from the Masked Ball to the knightback jousting for the youngest members, the Event was a delight and much was packed into a very full programme of activities. We came away weary but enthused and looking forward to all the other Events in the full calendar that 2007 holds.
Canterbury Faire images may be found here.