Claire Michael (Broderick)

Claire Michael (Broderick)

Author: Dan July 11, 2025 Duration: 1:01:10
In this podcast, the speakers discuss their experiences in the theater, particularly within the context of the Renaissance Fair and the production "Merry Wives of Windsor." The main speaker, who worked in the costume department before transitioning to performance, shares insights about their role, which included costume maintenance and audience engagement. They emphasize the importance of social dynamics among cast members and the rapport with the audience, highlighting techniques to draw in spectators and create an inclusive atmosphere during performances.

The conversation also touches on the intricacies of costume design, stressing that attention to detail can elevate a costume from mere clothing to a representation of historical accuracy. The speakers reflect on the challenges of balancing period authenticity with modern performance elements, as well as the evolution of their musical repertoire.

This discussion is significant as it sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to theatrical productions, the collaborative nature of performance art, and the cultural importance of Renaissance Fairs in preserving and reenacting historical narratives. The podcast captures the essence of community and creativity in theater, making it relevant for both performers and audiences alike.

Ever wondered what happens when the final curtain falls at the renaissance faire and the costumes come off? Faire Folk at Work pulls back the velvet rope to explore the real lives of the performers, artisans, and entrepreneurs who build that world of weekend magic. Host Dan sits down with people who have not only lived at the faire but have taken that unique spirit into their daily careers and creative pursuits. These conversations delve into the practicalities and philosophies of building a life outside conventional paths, blending stories from the stage, the craft booth, and the small business ledger. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of navigating the intersection of art and commerce, the challenges of sustaining a creative practice, and the unexpected ways faire culture shapes approaches to community and hustle. This podcast is a deep dive into the resilience, ingenuity, and often hilarious reality of making a living while chasing a particular kind of passion. Each episode offers a candid look at the work behind the wonder, revealing how the skills of performing and connecting with an audience translate into entrepreneurship, artistic discipline, and a different perspective on society itself. It’s about the lasting imprint of a temporary kingdom and the ongoing journey of its citizens.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 70

Faire Folk at Work
Podcast Episodes
Heidi Barthelemy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:31
Heidi, a booth owner, faire bureaucrat and world traveler, reflects of how she got to where she is and the family derived life skills and other people who have helped along the way.
Cora Hendershot [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:14
Having worked directly for Phyliss as an office minion, and more indirectly as a booth owner and craftsperson, a stage manager and as well as a parade person, Cora offers her unique persepctive on several aspects of fair…
Daniel (Rover) Singer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:38
Daniel discusses growing up as a Disney fan, similarities and differences between Disney and the Faire as employers and the relative merits of "oob" vs. "but, love" as the defining Shakespearean bit.
Shannon Dery [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:41
Shannon discusses how experiences at Faire have strongly influenced his current methods and thoughts on teaching theater to middle and high school students. For those of you who knew Shannon only then and are thinking "T…
Theo Katzoff [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:10
From the start Theo has played historical personnas, such as Henry Hudson, as well as acted with historical actors such as Henry Fonda and Bette Davis. He has directed fencing on stage and screen, and co-founded along wi…
Megan Stewart [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:09
Megan Stewart, who started at the Faire yelling at nobles dressed in mud in the third grade, is now a museum exhibits manager. In this interview she talk about the collective created reality of both the Faire and museums…
Jess Winfield [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:32
Jess talks about what was funny then, what is funny now, and what didn't make the cut.
Shirleigh Brannon [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:01
First in her family to attend college, Shirleigh talks about dancing and performing music professionally as well as part of a spontaneous folk tradition, similarities to street theater and reference interviews in a libra…
Kirsten Hochman (In Memoriam) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:55
Dan And Mark talk about acing with Kirsten and then present examples of her work.
Laura McLean [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:16
Laura thanks the people who helped her at the start of her faire, things she learned at faire, and how she has used those skills after faire to become the person she is now. She also recalls an incident involving a celeb…