Nestled in the thicket, knights, lords and Tolkien’s treasures frolicked.

Alter Ego SA’s Medieval Fayre returned in spectacular fashion at La Vue Guest Lodge on June 4. A line of steel chariots snaked out of the venue all the way to Malibongwe Drive as an eager gentry clamoured for a chance to gander at the enchantment of the Middle Ages. Not hosted since 2019 due to the more modern plague, the rolling hills were transformed into little slices of feudal wonder.

Nothing medieval would be complete without paying homage to the greatest literary visionary to ever adapt the period. JRR Tolkien’s creations littered the fayre as Golums, Gandalfs, Smaugs and Saurons lurked around every hedge. To add to the merriment, vassals could embark on a Lord of the Rings quest or delve into the labyrinthine depths of a Mordor murder mystery.

To occupy the commoners, brave knights duelled, rotund squires gorged themselves in a pie-eating competition, and the peasantry were able to hurl tomatoes at a ginger-haired scoundrel locked in the stockades. The cockles were warmed by fair maidens whose decorated bare bellies swayed alongside pixies and fairies, while lesser franklins enlisted in the Dahogrian Empire to experience the thrill of sword clattering against shield.

Bountiful feasts were regular while mead and muscadine ensured much mirth. Alter Ego SA matriarchs, Meryl Rosenberg and Dayle Mallinson stated that they were blown away by the turnout.

After two years of being sidelined by Covid, this ninth Medieval Fayre was a long time coming and we were thrilled to see so many people embracing the day and supporting local creators, vendors and performers,” said Lady D.

Alter Ego SA specialise in the epic production of much-loved events that always embrace the fantastical while bordering on the esoteric or absurd. Lovers of the Medieval Fayre can diarise another fanciful day out as Discworld Day is scheduled for November 5 at Rusty Hook.