We walked across the drawbridge and were met by two knights and then we heard: “Announcing, Lord and Lady Stapleton!” What we saw next was surreal and so amazing! The East High School gym had been transformed into a castle rivaling any of merry old England during the Renaissance period. We were treated to one of the finest dinner theatre productions ever … and all right here in southern Ohio!
Mr. Clark Walker is the music instructor and director of the Madrigals of EHS. This year is his first year teaching and oh what a year it has been if this performance is any indication! Both the Madrigals and the High School Chorus performed many musical selections while the Lord of Misrule (court jester) and Mr. Clark, the Conductor, carried on the theme of the evening by verbally reminding us of where we were and what to expect. There was even a sword fight and we saw the arrival of the boar’s head brought into the “hall.” The students learned the background and meaning of all they portrayed in song. It certainly was an excellent way to teach music and history and yet have so much enjoyment!
During the evening we were served generous portions of wassail along with the song introducing it; a very excellent and delicious dinner of Cornish hen, baked potato, and roll; then for dessert we had pudding, of course! The students all in Renaissance costumes served each course and displayed exemplary manners and courtesy toward the patrons of their musical production, “Ye Olde Madrigal Feast.”
The decorations followed the theme from the table settings, to the walls of ‘stones,’ to the chandeliers, to the wide display of flags and there was even a dragon’s head on one wall. The efforts of Mr. Walker, his students, parents, and staff who assisted were most definitely worthwhile! The Golden Night Quartet, college friends of Mr. Walker, serenaded us as we left the performance and what a treat it was to hear them, too. Many patrons were hesitant to leave … wanting to enjoy every last note.
Next Spring, the Madrigals and the Choral Department of East High School will present another dinner theatre. We will certainly be in attendance … and I hope that you will be, also!
Bill and Claudia Stapleton
McDermott Many thanks from Scout
My name is Adam Cook and I’m a Boy Scout with Troop 98 in South Shore, Ky.
I recently completed my Eagle Project which was overseeing the construction of two park benches to be placed at South Shore Nursing and Rehab.
I would like to thank the following people: Blaine Bentley with Bentley Hardware in South Shore who supplied all the material that was needed for this project, and also Sarah Willis, administrator of South Shore Nursing and Rehab who approved my project to be used at their facility. I also would like to thank my grandpa Toby King for his work, along with fellow Scouts, leaders and my family.
The project’s success was because of your efforts and I appreciate all that you did.
Adam Cook
South Shore, Ky.
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