Written by Meagan Power
Raise that cup of wassail, to celebrate the 50th annual Madrigal Feaste.
The annual Madrigal feast, also known as “Ye Olde English Christmasse Feaste” has returned once again for its 50th production. This year, Madrigals is a momentous occasion, celebrating half a century of rich musical tradition. The production introduces the Madrigal singers, instrumentalists, Lord Ladies, Tumblers and the always entertaining jesters. This spectacular ensemble is followed by a seven course meal.
This feaste is presented by a combined Tremper, Bradford and Indian Trail group of Madrigal singers, all dressed in 16th-century costumes.
The audience are invited to the Feaste’s past, going back nearly a century. The flyer of this feaste says it best: “Step back in time with us and enjoy the exciting sights, the beautiful sounds, come and experience the drama, the pageantry, and the elegance of a 16th-century castle … thrill at the talents, the skills and bravery of performers, drama players, court musicians, Madrigal singers, jesters and more.”
This grand event brings together performers from various backgrounds to showcase the evolution of the feaste. Held in the Tremper Cafeteria as food is served by “pages and wenches,” the dinner/production features Madrigal songs and holiday tidings, followed with some comedy cheer and a meal that includes dishes such as pork, chicken, wassail, and flamming figgy pudding.
Some of the Madrigal music used over the years includes “Touro-louro-Louro.” Senior Alex Nguyen relates the piece, saying, “I Like Touro-louro-louro because it’s a very happy song and talks about love. Overall, it’s a fun song to sing.”
Another fan favorite is Twelve Days of Christmas. Senior Ezarria Papouet Richardeau likes hearing everyone’s voice come together in this piece: “You get to hear eleven different voices and how they blend all together.” Among these two memorable pieces are “Gloucestershire Wassail”, “A Merry Christmas,” and “O Magnum and Fum Fum,” featuring performances of classic pieces by renowned composers such as John Ferrell and Robert Shaw.
Many families and friends have made going to the feaste their annual tradition during the holiday season. Many previous students or people who have helped and been a part of this performance continue to come to support the production every year.
Tremper senior Mauricio Rosales says, “My favorite part of the feast is getting to meet people from the past who have done the feaste before and being able to hear their stories and how they contributed to this amazing performance.” This production allows students from each school to showcase their hard work and create a feaste where all seems to come together.