I met these two jesters when Ray and I went to the Knights' Tournament at Portchester Castle.
Well, let's be honest: as Ray was showing the entrance tickets, I noticed them in the distance sitting with their backs to the inner wall of the castle with, in front of them, an enclosure marked off with bunting, a different flag at each corner. I could just see that they were in costume.
So we walked straight there. I usually 'suss out' my subjects a bit but I guess I reckoned that they would be used to requests for photos. I introduced myself and my strangers' project immediately. No problem taking a few shots.
And then I discovered that Godfrey (left) and Baldwin are professional entertainers, on that day medieval jesters and jugglers about to give a show at the tournament.
Baldwin told me that this was their 9th consecutive day of work, next would be 4 days off, and then 16 further consecutive days' work. April to Sept is their busiest time, with some work at Christmas, and the winter period spent on business such as promotion. As well as performance they also offer medieval circus skills workshops.
We watched the show and I tried to get some action shots but the background was naturally rather full of audience. I couldn't help but reflect that it's pretty skilful keeping cool whilst simultaneously acting the buffoon, juggling knives and cracking whips of fire
From their website:
"Zooted was started in 2007. Having both been involved in performing and teaching circus skills for 20 years we decided to combine our vast experience to create a double act to rival any in the country. Our first costumes were purple ‘Zoot’ suits hence the name ‘Zooted’."
Godfrey and Baldwin are now official resident jesters to Alnwick Castle of Harry Potter film fame.
To read about their other selves, go here:
http://www.zooted.co.uk/themed-entertainment.html
Their jester costumes are specialist hand-made.
I'm emailing them a few shots. It was great to meet such colourful
characters. A snapshot of the performance here:
http://365project.org/quietpurplehaze/add-ins/2016-08-08
Glad you saw them too and yes, excellent!!