For a minute or perhaps two - and this is a long time - the theater makes man better and happier on this earth. - Jean Jacques Gautier
In the spring of 2007, Steven Morhardt joined the cast of Me and My Girl as an animated suit of armour, and in the course of the production, Steven introduced RCT to the world of re-enactment.
RCT learned that not only were there numerous groups dedicated to re-enacting the days of yore in various ways, but that these groups were passionate about what they did. Even more importanct, RCT learned that there were few opportunities for re-enactment locally, and so began the idea for the Tournament of the Rose.
Leaning heavily on Steven as a resource, RCT devised the idea of an outdoor theatrical production. The main focus of the production would be a true medieval tournament in which knights could compete in archery, rapier and heavy steel sword tournaments. And, to make it both a true production and a true competition, RCT also decided that:
- The tournament would be attended by local “royalty”
- Each event would be marshaled according to the regulations of that discipline
- The victors of each event would be awarded awards ranging in cost from $100 to $250
- The tournament would culminate in a lavish Medieval Feast at which the royalty would hold court and present the awards to the victorious knights
For the summer of 2007, RCT ran the Tournament of the Rose in conjunction with the local Jamboree Days with the hope that the local community would catch the spirit. And catch it they did, especially in the parade which had many businesses decorating their entries Medieval. But most importantly, the encouragement and feedback from the participants has ensured that the Tournament will now become an annual event.