Master of Ceremonies

The Master of Ceremonies - a role that can be carried out by the Jester, or with a Lord Chamberlain who is then heckled by the jester in a double-act.

What can they do? Well, 'Sod the Jester',

Dressed up in his full medieval finery, he can provide you with exactly the same service as he would conventionally, but with the opportunity to be a bit more daring - to push the boundaries and engage in a lot more banter with the guests.

And, of course, the Lord and Lady of the evening can call on him to oblige those who displease them to perform forfeits! We can bring our own stocks....

For charity events he can act as auctioneer, organiser of games and collector of fines and penalties.

Both Sod and our Lord Chamberlain are experienced dance callers and actors. For an all day event, they can provide a stable anchor for the whole performance, the same face linking together all the different stages.

When guests first arrive, they can be announced. Following a fanfare, all will be invited to rise for the arrival of a bride and groom, or guest of honour. Guests can be advised as to their correct deportment with a reading of the 'Rules of the Banquet.

After speeches and presentations, it will seem absolutely natural that the Master of Ceremonies then takes charge of any dancing in the evening. Seamless continuity, with less chance of confusion or conflict - absolutely no 'pulling of pigtails' as my old boss used to say.