Revels facts for kids
Revels is a special series of live shows that happen at different times of the year, especially around Christmas. These shows are packed with singing, dancing, storytelling, and acting. They are usually based on old traditions and stories, often from different cultures or times in history. Revels started in 1957 and became very popular. Now, you can find these amazing performances in many cities across the United States!
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What is the History of Revels?
The very first Revels shows were called Christmas Revels. They began in New York City in 1957. These early shows were fun holiday events that included singing, dancing, short plays (often funny!), and even some chances for the audience to join in. The people performing were usually from the local community, not always professional actors, and many were young.
Who Started Revels?
A man named John Langstaff created these Christmas shows. Later, in 1971, he and his daughter Carol started The Christmas Revels in Cambridge, Massachusetts. They performed at Sanders Theater at Harvard University, and the shows often sold out! John Langstaff helped start many other Revels groups in different American cities until he passed away in 2005.
Where Can You See Revels Today?
Today, the main organization, Revels Inc, puts on shows in ten cities across the United States. While many shows celebrate Christmas and winter, some cities also have special Revels events for spring and summer.
How Are Revels Shows Put Together?
Revels shows are inspired by old English plays from the 1500s and even earlier. They bring together professional singers, actors, and musicians with talented people from the community. Sometimes, they invite special guests who are experts in the music, dance, or traditions of a particular culture.
What Can You Expect to See?
Almost every Revels show includes a children's chorus. These young performers sing, dance, and play games that fit the theme of the show. You'll often see traditional English Morris dancing, which is a lively folk dance. Even if the show is about a different culture, a short, funny play called the Mummers' play is usually included.
Reviewers often praise the energetic dancing and the joyful mood of the performances. Each year, the Christmas Revels focuses on Christmas and winter traditions from a different time period or culture. For example, one year might explore the traditions of medieval England, while another might be inspired by the stories of writer Thomas Hardy.
Does the Audience Participate?
Yes! The audience is often encouraged to sing along during several parts of the show. A special tradition is ending the first half of the performance with the hymn "Lord of the Dance". After the last verse, everyone is invited to dance along with the cast, sometimes even out into the lobby! The famous author Susan Cooper also wrote a poem specifically for the Christmas Revels, which is recited near the end of each show.
Who Makes Revels Happen?
Revels events are a mix of professional performers and many amazing volunteers. Volunteers often sing in the choruses, dance, and act in crowd scenes. People of all ages, from young children to adults, are part of the cast and the audience. Plus, a huge team of volunteers works behind the scenes. They help with costumes, building sets, promoting the shows, and raising money.
Where Are Revels Shows Located?
As of 2019, there are at least ten independent Revels groups active in the US:
- Cambridge Revels: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Revels North: Hanover, New Hampshire
- New York Revels: New York, New York
- Washington Revels: Washington, DC
- Revels Houston: Houston, Texas
- Rocky Mountain Revels: Boulder, Colorado
- Santa Barbara Revels: Santa Barbara, California
- California Revels: Oakland, California
- Portland Revels: Portland, Oregon
- Puget Sound Revels: Tacoma, Washington
See also
- Dickens fair
- Master of the Revels
- Renaissance Fair
