1. What is it that you do?
I’m a renaissance performer and I play a Troll named Privy.
2. Where are you located?
Oklahoma U.S.A. My home faire would be the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival located at the Castle of Muskogee, but I will be attending all local faires possible this next season.
3. What got you interested in starting out in this business?
While attending festivals, I’ve been inspired by many performers over the years and wanted to experience the magic myself. I thought it would be a great chance to show my appreciation for all things fantasy.
4. When did you start performing? In general or at renaissance fests?
I started preforming in October 2024. My first time as Privy was at a Halloween event held at the Castle of Muskogee.
5. What was your local faire or home faire?
My first Renaissance Faire attended as Privy was the Scottish Renaissance Festival located in Oklahoma City. Though my closest faire will be the at the Castle of Muskogee and will be where I attend the most in the upcoming years. Muskogee is also the first faire I attended ever so it holds some sentimental value to me as well.
6. How are you compensating for this strange time we are in now?
By doing what I love and focusing on positive interactions. Doing what I can to make the faire an even better experience for everyone.
7. What advice do you have to give to others that are just starting out in this business? Or how to stay in this business?
I’m still learning myself, but if I had any advice it would be to play a character that lets you express your true self. You’ll find it easier to act and won’t get as crossed up, if it’s all coming from a place where you’re comfortable. Also, and I know everyone says this but remember to drink a lot of water. Sometimes we get so caught up in what we’re doing that we forget and that will not only affect your performance but obviously your health.
8. How do you handle thefts or copying of your works?
Thievery is such a horrible experience and I wish people would understand how much it affects those trying to run a business. As far as meeting other trolls, I welcome any and all people that would be inspired by what I have done to the point that they would want to do it themselves. I was inspired by a troll after all.
9. Are you doing any online sales or virtual performances?
Not as of now. Just been sharing videos of interactions from faires. Might look into creating extra content in the future though.
10. Why Renaissance Faires or theme? What is it that made you so interested in this period?
It had a sense of mystery to it and reminds me of a time when everyone didn’t have everything figured out. All the brilliant fantasy films I watched growing definitely played a part in my love for it. But, learning so much of the actual history of the renaissance has definitely impacted my life. Almost like a living art piece that continues to inspire me.
11. Describe your first experience with us or your best experience (could be worst experience if you want to share that)
While working as Privy, I’ve met so many people that were totally captivated by his presence. Their positivity really pushes me to do my best and make the faire a better experience for everyone. I’d like to think that concept has changed my life and I’m excited to get back at it this next season. Someone asked me if I was from the Labyrinth recently. Really made my day.
12. In five years (or less) my goal is to:
Attend more faires and branch out all over the U.S. There’s many performers that I want to collaborate with and several festivals I want to experience.
13. At faire, what was your garb/attire your usual go to?
I’ve had a few different outfits over the years. Nothing special. Mostly commoners/merchant type clothing.
14. What makes your act/wares unique or different?
Performers try to put their own spin on characters, even if they’re playing someone well known. So in that, everyone is unique. I’d like to think Privy is distinctive from other trolls I’ve seen due to his kind and thoughtful nature.
15. What makes you stand out?
I’m not sure, but I do try to be spontaneous and interactive. I strive to have a well rounded character concept.
16. What was your very first experience at a renaissance festival? What education or training if any do you have that led to what you do?
Like I said before, Oklahoma Renaissance Festival at the castle of Muskogee was my first ren faire adventure. Being a table top rpg player and a lover of fantasy films, I felt absolutely immersed in the culture. I knew from the first moment I attended faire that I wanted to
be a part of it. As for training, I had experience as a musician prior to this. Playing on stage has helped me with confidence and crowd interaction.
17. What would you say to a new person looking to try out or vending?
I’d tell them what I told myself when I started. “You have to get your feet wet so don’t be afraid to jump in. Trust yourself and know it’s going to be a learning experience. If you never give up, you’ll get there.”
18. What is your go to for food at faire? You can name a food vendor or if you are a food vendor, what is your most sold item?
I enjoy so many faire foods, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be Elk Chislic. If I run across it at a festival, it’s a must.
19. What’s your idea for the future of faires?
I’d like to think that as of recent, they’re growing in popularity. I can see owners going bigger and better with structures. If I was going to help
Someone make a faire better, I would tell them to focus on buildings and cast. Don’t be afraid to put money back into it and make sure people feel taken care of for their efforts
20. Plug your website or fan page here (or both)
www.TikTok.com/@privythetroll http://www.TikTok.com/@Privythetroll
www.facebook.com/privythetroll http://www.facebook.com/privythetroll
www.instagram.com/privythetroll http://www.instagram.com/privythetroll
