Madrigal dinner facts for kids
A Madrigal Dinner is a special kind of show and meal. It's like a play that happens while you eat! These dinners are often put on by schools or churches. They usually happen around Christmas time. The whole event feels like you've stepped back into the Renaissance era. It's often funny and includes music, a play, and a big meal.
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Music at a Madrigal Dinner
The music you hear at a Madrigal Dinner is usually sung by a choir. It comes from the Middle Ages or the Renaissance period. You might hear both popular songs and religious songs from that time. Sometimes, modern songs are used, but they will have old-style words.
Most songs are in English, Italian, German, or French. Even though the dinner is named after the madrigal style of music, you'll hear many other types too. Christmas carols are also a big part of the show.
Traditional Songs
Some songs are always sung when the food courses are brought out. These include "The Wassail Song" and the "Boar's Head Carol". These songs are mostly in English, but they might have a few words in Latin or French. Each Madrigal Dinner usually has its own special set of songs for bringing out the food.
The Play and Characters
A play is performed during the dinner. It might happen after the main meal, or in short parts between the food courses. The play is usually light and romantic. It often reminds people of King Arthur stories. The story might be about a prince or princess getting married.
Who You'll See
Some characters are always in the play. These include the King, Queen, and the Court Jester. Other characters might be musicians, thieves, wizards, knights, or even Greek gods and goddesses.
You, the audience, are also part of the show! You might be asked to pretend you are members of the royal court. Or you could be guests at a royal event, like a wedding or Christmas party. Sometimes, the actors will even talk directly to the audience to make you feel more involved.
Roving Entertainers
Many Madrigal Dinners also have performers who walk around. They entertain guests right at their tables. These performers might be jugglers, poets, musicians, comedians, or singers. Sometimes, the singers will split into small groups and sing among the audience. This is called "wenching." These songs are often upbeat and quick. They are usually modern songs that sound old, or traditional Christmas carols.
The Food
The food at a Madrigal Dinner tries to be like meals from the Middle Ages. But it's not always exactly the same. The meal usually has a few parts:
- A wassail (a warm drink) or other drinks.
- A salad.
- A main course.
- Dessert.
Even though the "Boar's Head Carol" is sung for the main course, the most common meat served is chicken. Often, it's a small chicken called a Cornish game hen.
Symbols in the Dinner
During the song for each food course, a special object might be carried to the King's throne. Two or more guards usually carry it.
The Boar's Head
A boar's head is the most important symbol for the main course. It's not actually part of the meal. The same head is often used for many years. So, most Madrigal Dinners use a head that won't spoil. This might be a real boar, pig, or javelina head that has been preserved. Or it could be a fake one made from papier-mâché or plaster. The "Boar's Head Carol" song connects the boar's head to the idea of Christ being part of the Christmas celebration.
