Shakespeare in Love, in London, on Stage, it’s beyond words.

Shakespeare in Love, is really just Love!

Yes, it’s exactly like that! I was fortunate enough this summer to be able to spend some time in London and see this fabulous show. Co-produced by Disney, the show leaves nothing lacking, and I mean nothing, even after 48 hours or so of no sleep, as I arrived in London earlier that day.

It has been a while since the movie was made which the stage production is based off of.  The original even won a few Oscars. The production I saw that night of Saturday, August 23, was one of a magical experience and one I will never forget.  As the reviews say, it is the “Best!” and they are right!

Before the show I spent some sterling to support the show and bought my book, program, and my “Romeo and Ethel, the Pirates Daughter” T-shirt. All very well done and treasured.  I was able to take a few shots of the theatre inside, the Noël Coward Theatre. It was beautiful! I have never been to a play in London before; this was for sure a treat!

Inside the Noel Coward Theatre

Similar to the movie, the show centers on the two main characters.  First is Viola played by Lucy Briggs-Owens and she is fantastic, stunning, and brings so much light to the show.  She is like a jewel that just shines for two hours non-stop. Just perfect in my book. Will, Will Shakespeare of course, is portrayed by Tom Bateman.  He puts so much heart and feeling into his role as Will, its not to be missed.  I do wonder though, if or how long, his thumb will be stained with black ink. 

Some of the other actors you might recognize from other productions and shows, probably the most well known is the wonderful David Oakes. Whom I met after the show and is such a saint! He has been in The Borgias, The White Queen, and Pillars of the Earth. His Marlowe is perfect and he shows just the right amount of cunning and conniving which is very Mr. Oakes’s style and so Marlowe.

The Cast

Being a total costume nut, the costumes did their duty and impressed. They were all just stunning all the way down to the little costume bits that the token puppy wears. It's a coin toss to say which one out of Viola's dresses is my favorite, perhaps her blue dress? So stunning...wait they are all stunning.

So if you are in London, do see the show. You will not be disappointed. Since my visit, two of my good friends have gone. We all loved every minute of it. Maybe I will get lucky in March and it will still be playing? I would love to see it again.  Also the cast is all very warm and friendly and wonderful company, so if you have the time, please do go say hello.  I learned so much that night; it will be a hard one for a long time to top.

Reminiscing.....

Inside the Tower of London

So this last week, I have been reading, amongst other things Markham’s Richard III: His Life & Character. It got my wheels turning, as to some of his major points he draws on in his chapters about the princes and what became of them have also been questioned by myself. He also brings up a very interesting point about the authorship of the many articles that were written about the incident, as well as many others; including the Croyland Chronicles of London through out his argument. What went on in those author's heads?

He tried not to let the wax from the candle above the ledge of the writing desk drip to the parchment as he hurried the last few sentences of the following day’s news. Out of the corner of his eye watching the wax drip… and drip. People were talking, talking about many things, and the word needed to get out; Edward IV’s sons were missing. More than likely dead. He hadn’t heard the word murdered yet from anyone’s lips, but definitely missing. 

His hands shook as he blew the drying sand off the parchment to help make the ink set and dry faster. King Richard was still in York. He knew that much, but still there were many unanswered questions. He had to have known the fate of the children, how could he not.

Nervously, he read over his work, blew out his light and gave it to the grandmaster.

“I am done with tomorrow’s bit.” He nodded and said, as he backed away from the elder monk, waiting for criticism or acknowledgement. He never knew which would come first if any.

“The words, stories, are every where. Where is the King? He has to know?” He said again.

“Let's hope we know the truth soon, once he returns. Perhaps this is a misunderstanding, or one of the Lancaster’s plays of folly.” The grandmaster said as he glanced over the article the novice monk gave him. He hoped he didn't have to publish this... or more like wish it wasn't so.....

Folly, or misunderstanding, many of the accounts that were written whether they were against Richard’s reign or not, many baseless and not backed up by solid evidence as noted in Markham’s book. Personal prejudices at times, got in the way and aided the rumors. Will we ever know what happened? We might not but we can for sure develop a better understanding of the writers who wrote the articles and their basis for doing so.  Markham's book is perhaps one of my favorite sources of the life and time's of Richard III and the world he lived in.

The music of Natasha Mira "Medieval Pop"

Before I went on my adventure to England, I had the lovely chance to chat with Ms. Natasha Mira about her music “Medieval Pop.” Being a medievalist, her music was like a magnet and truly quiet exceptional and inspiring.

To many of us, music has a magical way of making us time travel, either forward or backwards. It can touch our hearts and our souls.  It also can toy on our emotions. Natasha Mira's songs do just that. Especially, her single “Don’t Let Me Go.” The imagery and story telling she does with the lyrics, as well as the clips from the hit show "the Tudors" leaves you wanting more at the end of the song. She is also set to release some other wonderful songs in the upcoming weeks as well.

Let me briefly introduce Ms. Mira. She is a young aspiring musician currently studying at USC. She is working on her Bachelors in Music Industry; yet demonstrates to the world, she is more than ready to take over the world with her new genre "medieval pop." She is defiantly someone you will want to keep an eye on for many years to come. Talent only knocks once, and she has it.

 

To discover Natasha, who is most genuine, talented, and delightful, and her music, please visit her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/natashamiramusic . It’s truly an experience and something you don’t want to miss!

And from Natasha herself:

“If you are my friend, a lover of music, a creator, an artist, or someone with a passion and you wish to share that with the world, I hope you will please take the time to read what I have to say. For as long as I can remember I have always been searching for 'my sound'. A way I could represent myself artistically while still saying true to myself. I am proud to say that I have finally found that sound, and for the past year I have been constantly creating and working towards this moment in which I would be sharing with everyone the new genre I have created which I will be calling 'Medieval Pop'. The best way for me to describe Medieval Pop is to imagine Hans Zimmer meeting Evanescence and Ellie Goulding. I strive for a cinematic larger than life sound which channels medieval instrumentation while still maintaining a commercial radio-friendly audience.  

 
I have always been obsessed with this time period, Medieval Europe, and the Renaissance. I feel like through these inspirations, and my writing style, I can truly be myself and combine my artistic viewpoint with a new genre that is representative of a part of my soul and passions. I'm a girl, but I'll admit, I'm also a gamer. I love medieval-inspired video games such as Skyrim. I am intrigued and obsessed with shows such as Game of Thrones, Reign, and the Tudors. As a singer and a songwriter I will always love writing in various genres and styles. One of my greatest passions is collaborating with other incredible artists. I will continue writing in various genres but Medieval Pop has become the first project that is representative of me as a person. Representative of the artist Natasha Mira that I've always wanted to portray.”

 www.facebook.com/natashamiramusic

My Trip to York Minister

Even at sunset its massive walls captured my breath, as I stood outside. Its grandeur was captivating. 

It wasn’t till the following day I ventured back to its massive presence, York Minster (Cathedral). After seeing it the night before with my cousin, I now know why so many speak so highly of it. The outside alone was just amazing beyond words.  Standing out front of the doors just made the hair on the back of my neck tingle with a familiarity I cannot describe.

A bit of history, York Minster is one of Northern Europe’s largest Cathedrals. Its presence has been noted since the time of Bede. Its beginnings began as a wooden church in 627 as a place of baptism for Edwin King of Northumbria, that year.  In 637, it was converted to a stone structure under Oswald of Northumbria and dedicated to St. Peter. Later in the 8^th century and school and a library were attached to the structure. Various ups and down of the church happened afterwards, burned by the Danes, fires, the church was rebuilt a number of times. In 1215, Walter de Grey was made archbishop and ordered the church to be rebuilt to the likeness of Canterbury. In 1220 building began and in 1420 the building was considered finished and consecrated.

Now, on to my little tour.  Of course, I had to pay a bit to go in. Student discount YAY! One thing I learned on this trip was to never leave home without that ID, I probably saved around 100 British Sterling total. Overall, I was more than happy to pay the small sum of sterling they asked and made a small donation, especially since it went to the buildings upkeep. How did they maintain York Minister?  I asked a nice friendly church volunteer and got a very well informed answer. Well, it was being worked on while I was there. One of the facades to the west I believe was draped in a green cover and intricate scaffolding.  Stonemasons are rare these days I was told, so when the church gets wind of some in the area, work or maintenance is the first order of business to be done on the old stonework of the building.

Then it was time to explore the inside. By just walking in to the doors; I cannot tell you all, how massive the sight was and how it captivated my tired eyes and head. The organ was being warmed up for later in the day (At times, I believe the organ was made for angels.), visitors were meandering around at their own pace, and I saw a tour here and there. It was quite peaceful actually.  Various stain-glassed windows were filtering the sun below making it splatter on to the floor, illuminating various corners and isles of the minister. One could get lost in there for sure just taking all the sights and sounds in. Like any student or historian, I went straight to the catacombs and exhibits that I found and learned what I could in the short amount of time I had.  I had to run and catch the train in a matter of a few hours. 

Burial of Prince William of Hatfield, Infant son of Edward III

The catacombs were underneath the main priory screen in the center of the minister. It was dark, and had that musty old castle smell, but very impressive. They had a few exhibits and you could see and the old stones of the original cathedral were left over, as columns before they were moved the building outwards and larger. There was some pretty gorgeous wooden furniture, specifically a trunk.

I went back up stairs and out, and wandered around to see who had funeral vaults, saw some I knew and some I was not so familiar with. All quite impressive.

My gaze then shifted upwards. It was a sight I probably will never forget. The latticework and intricate design and stonework of the celling were astounding. 

Overall York Minister did far more than impress. It blew my mind away. I know now why Richard III had his son instilled Prince of Wales in its massive and captivating walls. It was built for a prince, and for a king.  A well-loved king of the north.

A little video I made of the inside:)

England!!!!

Medievalessays is off to England :) stay tuned for pictures! 

What to Wear During the War of The Roses

"The White Queen"

I have always been a huge costume nut.  Great films and shows always are an excellent source of inspiration for me and anyone to create something fun, and eventually useful. Back in my college years, "Braveheart" helped me create an early medieval outfit for one of my medieval studies class, and lots of “Ohhhs and Awwws” from classmates.  Emma Thompson's and Ang Lee's adaptation of Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility" resulted in half a wardrobe filled with Regency period dresses, which all got worn to various Gaskell’s Balls in the Bay Area.  Yet no Mr. Darcy was seen.  Le sigh.

Most recent in my period costume film quest, I have discovered “The White Queen” produced by Starz yet even though not 100% historically accurate; has inspired pattern makers and costume/period dress nuts like myself, now to have a reason to make some pretty festive and beautiful frocks.  I finally have a use for the pewter crushed velvet in my sewing fabric stash! YAY! 2014 Night at the Symphony Costume Contest/Event, here I come!

Elizabeth Woodville

 

Back on topic. Dress.  It’s the War of the Roses.  Edward IV is trying not to get his supply of cloth cut off from Flanders and strikes a deal with Burgundy and his sister Margaret of York is escorted by the Earl Warwick, Richard Neville, to Burgundy for her pending marriage to help keep this important relationship open, and trade to keep going, despite rising conflict lurking in the horizon.  With this political backdrop, what did ladies wear, mainly the ladies at court? Dress during this time was actually quite depended on region.

15th Cent Italian Dress

For example Italy was on its own wavelength in contrast to the rest of the continent, as seen in paintings during the times. The northern part of Europe dressed a bit more to climate.   

Patterned fabric of period

The century began with the gown called “cotehardie” which we refer to as the one with the large bell sleeves and fitted down through the waist. This style faded quickly with introduction of new designs.  Gowns were long of course, and trimmed with fur (ermine, mink etc.) on the cuff, around the collar and sometimes the hem. Fabric was available in various dyes at this time.

The darker colors, reds, blues, dark green, blacks with brocades or patterned in artichoke or oak leave patterns; were of significant cost, mainly worn by those who could afford it, meaning the nobility. This style of gown is most known by the name: “houppelandes” which refer to the long flowing dresses of the time.

Garments were displayed or worn with a style called “slashing” which meant it was opened to reveal an other bit of clothing underneath, like a kirtle or under gown in contrasting colors (most common white or black). A chemise was worn close to the skin.  As time went on, repairs in sleeves of both men and women also accentuated this method of style.

Sleeves were mostly cuffed with matching fur from the color yet could be transferred to other gowns, with ornamentation on the cuff with jewels or embroidery. Also at times, if fur wasn’t worn, patterned fabric was used on both collar and cuff, which became more fashionable later in the century.

So what have I done with all this wealth of inspiration and creativity? I have put it to some use. I have made some alterations and adaptations of my own, but here is a glimpse of my current sewing project.  Today, we are lucky, we have sewing machines, just imagine all this work was done by hand at one point in time.  Headpiece… don’t ask me if I am going to make a hennin, I am not there yet. 

Step one: cutting out the dress: 

Detail of the side of the bodice, before I finished bead work.

Where we are at as of Sunday: Black sash, bodice jeweled, sleeves work in progress.

Bosworth

The early morning fog covered the ground like a soft plush blanket. The lush green grass of the marsh and surrounding fields seemed to be a favorite of the horses.  As they walked the field many tried to steal a snatch or two.  Their riders weary, pulled their heads up and spurred them lightly forward. Yet they could sense what was coming soon. Ever so soon as the sun began to rise.

Brakenbury was quiet for a change. Yet, quiet boisterous the night before at the inn, Richard thought he would never sleep. Tossing and turning in his room in the inn’s upper bedroom, sleep never came easy for him away from his normal chambers in London, and especially now, alone. How he missed Anne. She was not supposed to die. So many things awaited him back in London. His niece Elizabeth, needed a marriage and then there was her other sisters. He needed to make their mother happy. He needed her support, most importantly he needed this usurper, Henry Tudor dead. Of bastard lineage, now in England to challenge his right to the crown, Richard’s crown.  

He gripped the hilt of his sword. It was cold, even through his leather gloves. He repeated to himself the words of the priest from the morning mass as he blessed them all as they prepared for battle. He asked God again to give him strength and watch out for him. He prayed to his wife Anne to watch out for his soul and his body if he fell. He tried to push that thought out of his mind, far, far away.

One of his commanders called for them all to halt. Banners danced in the air in the distance. Their colors vibrant against the morning grey sky. He could see the Welsh banner men struggling against the winds and then the standard of Tudor.  A chill ran down Richard’s spine. Soon, very soon, everyone’s fate was to be decided.......

c. June 30, 2014 A.C. McMillin