FANTASY FAIRE RETURNS JUNE 27 & 28, 2015

FANTASY FAIRE RETURNS JUNE 27 & 28, 2015

MILLVILLE, NJ – Mystic Realms, Inc. will once again present its Fantasy Faire in partnership with WheatonArts on June 27 and 28, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Mystic Realms is a theatric arts organization that combines traditional theatric skills with live-action role playing to create an interactive experience where the participant is both the actor and the audience. Strolling costumed characters, portraying historical and mythical figures, interact with visitors on the grounds each day.

The Fantasy Faire theme is the general Medieval to Renaissance period, but blends historic fact with myth and popular fantasy of the time. Knights stand side-by-side with elves; musicians play period instruments while fairies dance.

Highlights include:
■ The Kingdom of Wheaton hosts the Tournament of Prosperity where the Baron’s champions fight for glory and honor, but this year’s programming has been significantly expanded to bring even more fantasy characters to life for children to meet and interact. Each character (Little Red Riding Hood, Sir Lancelot, Sir Gwain and Merlin, Queen Mab, Titania, Oberon, Robin Hood, Maid Marion, and many others) will perform throughout the day.
■ The Renaissance and folk music sections have been expanded to include several bands such as “4 Pieces of 8” and “The Misplaced Pub.”
■ Professional stage and street magician, Joshua Berstecher, will perform two shows each day.
■ At the Court of Miracles, children can meet Esmeralda and other characters from the Hunchback of Notre Dame, and enjoy dancing and drumming techniques by individual and troupe performers. Performances will be every half hour.
■ Children can participate in the raising of the Spring Pole and Wrapping Dance at 1:30 p.m.
■ Education components include demonstrations of medieval combat, Renaissance dancing, textile production, arms and armor, archery, and more.
■ Special addition this year…become part of the wizarding world of Harry Potter. Children of all ages can play the magical sport of quidditch. Interact with witches and wizards from the world of the British author
J. K. Rowling as they teach the rules necessary to play this exciting sport. Brooms will be provided.

Vendors will offer a variety of unique products including jewelry, medieval and fantasy costumes, leather goods, and psychic readings. The gaming area has a pirate theme featuring games such as a beanbag toss for kids and ax/knife throwing for adults. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Visitors receive a detailed program of activities each day.

WheatonArts is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Open July 4 and Labor Day. The Fantasy Faire is included in the price of admission to WheatonArts. Adults $10.00, Senior Adults $9.00 and Students $7.00. Children five and under are free.

For information about the event and WheatonArts, call 856-825-6800 or 800-998-4552, or visit wheatonarts.org. For more information about Mystic Realms, Ltd., visit www.mysticrealms.com.

WheatonArts strives to ensure the accessibility of its exhibitions, events and programs to all persons with additional needs. Individuals needing special assistance or accommodations should provide notice at least two weeks in advance. Patrons with hearing and speech disabilities may contact WheatonArts through the New Jersey Relay Service (TRS) 800-852-7899 or by dialing 711.

Funding has been made possible in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, by funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, New Jersey Cultural Trust and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. WheatonArts receives general operating support from the New Jersey Historical Commission, Division of Cultural Affairs in the New Jersey Department of State. Additional funding provided through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.

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