The entrance of the Demuzio Campus Center was awash with the light of candlesticks as guests signed in. Past the entryway, two guards stood tall allowing the audience to pass through into the glowing dining area where each table was carefully arranged and costumed characters flittered about the tables seating guests and chatting amiably. Surrounding the guests were props – large ancient stone towers and a boar’s head on banquet tables.
On Nov. 18 and 19, Blackburn’s performing arts department gave its latest rendition of madrigals. The cast led the audience in songs and skits based around a Renaissance era feast. This event also marked the college’s 45 madrigal performance. One of the most popular songs according to performing arts department junior Jessica Cramer was “Gloucestershire Wassail” which was followed by a glass of wassail. Alongside the music was fine dining including a dessert that both junior biology major Wendy Pocklington and business management major Will Marxkors agreed was the best part.
Marxkors worked both nights of the event due to his position as a crew head of Dining and Hospitality and spent his time serving guests. However he was able to enjoy the music and acts alongside the crowd. Joining Marxkors was a crew of servers and “pages” that delivered messages amongst the workers and crowd.
Cramer, who was one of the members in the royal court and an event planner noted the dinner as one of the most popular events for both the community and Blackburn students. Both nights were nearly sold out.