One of Ashland University’s most beloved and enduring Christmas traditions, the Madrigal Feaste, returns for its 50th year with four performances Nov. 19-22, in Redwood Hall.
The Madrigal Feaste, returns for its 50th year with four performances Thursday, Nov. 19, through Sunday, Nov. 22, in Redwood Hall at Ashland University.
Presented by the AU Department of Music, doors will open at 6 p.m. and the royal procession at 6:30 p.m.
The Madrigal Feaste takes audiences back to Merry Olde England, a term referring to the country’s powerful and prosperous Elizabethan period, for an evening of fine singing, original comedy, festive dining and cherished traditions.
Each performance features the AU Chamber Singers, a select vocal ensemble on campus. Dressed in authentic period-style costumes, the singers perform traditional Christmas carols, ceremonial music and madrigals, a cappella love songs dating back 400 years ago that explore themes still relatable today. Actors bring the venue to life theatrically, with comic relief provided by the commanding butler and the court jester.
This year’s King is senior music education major Gabe Murawski of Ashland, while the Queen will be senior music major Emilee Fletcher of Centerburg. Senior music education major Ellie Nickoli of Lexington will perform as the Jester, while junior music education major Landon Harvey of Willard will serve as the Butler.
The family-style meal includes roast beef, roasted potatoes and carrots, cashew salad, rolls, cookies, figgy pudding and wassail. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available and can be selected when purchasing tickets.
Tickets are on sale now through Nov. 16, and must be purchased in advance at ashland.edu/performing-arts-tickets (credit card sales only) or in person at the AU Campus Store during normal business hours.
For more information, contact Ron Blackley at rblackle@ashland.edu.
This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: AU’s Madrigal Feaste celebrates 50 years of holiday tradition Nov. 19-22
