2018 Hall of Fame

2018 Hall of Fame

Craig of Farrington



For more than a quarter of a century, faire-goers have encountered a roving “lutenist” who approaches, plays the perfect song, and then moves on. That man is Craig Merlin Broers, best known to the community as Craig of Farrington. A multi-talented musician with a repertoire of over 600 songs at his disposal, he has the right song for everyone and any occasion. In addition, he has never hesitated to contribute his time and talent to shows and to the community at large. A number of musicians have been mentored by Craig along the way, and they too have mentored what have become Craig’s musical “grandchildren”; a legacy of music that forever carries him forward.

Since his first performance at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in 1984, his appearances on the circuit, his performances in New Orleans, to his collaborations with the Minstrels of Mayhem and the New Minstrel Revue, Craig is an ethereal presence. With his lilting voice, his kind eyes and kinder words, and his mischievous smile and wink, one could be forgiven for mistaking him for a timeless being who walks the world to sow joy and contentment. Frankly, that may be closer to the truth than one might think. He is a musician, mentor, and friend; the community is proud to honor Craig of Farrington with induction into the Renaissance Festival Hall of Fame.
Community Inductee
Jenny Martin – Renaissance Festival Circuit Teacher

Jenny Martin became a teacher for the renaissance community almost three decades ago.  She fulfilled perhaps the most important role for vendors, artists and performers who chose a life on the road.

The education of their children became Jenny's responsibility.  Year after year she taught these children, many who are now college graduates.  She didn't just teach them reading, writing, arithmetic, history and science, she taught them humanity.

These children look after each other, they perform for patrons singing and playing games.  And those patrons who witness this miracle of children working together is probably the best representation of what we are trying to accomplish in the renaissance community.

These are not normal children, they are the pride of all of us,.  In this community they are not only safe, but everyone here would protect them,  This might be the only place left on earth where the expression, "it takes a village to raise a child" is valid.  

Make no mistake, Jenny has given these children all the tools to succeed in life.  That is more than most of us have done with our lives.

Is she really a great teacher?  I went to her classroom one day in Texas to wish her a Happy Birthday.  I asked her students what was the best gift they ever received on their birthday?  One of her students said, "my life".

That is Jenny Martin!

Crafter Inductee
Nick Lavigne - Lavigne Leather

Management Inductee
John Mills

Stage Entertainment Inductees
Mallory & McCall
Dirk & Guido, The Swordsmen

Street Entertainment Inductee
Gypsy Guerilla Band