Interested in Joining?
We encourage prospective members to get to know our directors and current members, learn about the troupe, and experience our activities before committing to membership.
Our joining process consists of four steps:
Step 1 – Contact the Directors
Begin by emailing directors@terpsichory.org with your name, email address, phone number, and some convenient times for a phone call. This allows us to introduce ourselves, answer any initial questions, and discuss the next steps.
Step 2 – Interview
Participate in a phone or in-person interview with the directors. This is an opportunity for us to get to know you, discuss your interests and experience, explain membership expectations, and answer any questions you may have.
If you’ve already met and spent time with us at an event, such as the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, a convention, or another troupe performance, that interaction may serve as your interview. Simply let us know when and where we met!
Step 3 – Attend a Practice
Attend a lesson or practice to experience the troupe firsthand. This gives you an opportunity to meet current members, observe how we teach and learn dances, and become familiar with our practice environment. No prior courtly dance experience is required.
Step 4 – Follow-Up Discussion
After attending a practice, we’ll have a follow-up discussion to answer any remaining questions, discuss your experience, and determine whether Terpsichory is a good fit for everyone involved.
Membership Requirements & Expectations
Membership in Terpsichory involves participation both on and off the performance floor. All members are expected to contribute to the troupe and help maintain a respectful, supportive, and inclusive environment.
Costuming
All members are responsible for providing their own performance attire that meets the troupe’s costuming standards. Dancers are expected to portray nobility and dress as a Lord or Lady. Musicians must wear attire appropriate for the merchant class or higher.
We understand that historical costuming can feel overwhelming, particularly for those who are new to it. Our costuming directors can provide guidance, help identify appropriate garments and resources, and assist with planning or creating an outfit that meets troupe requirements. All costumes must be reviewed and approved according to the troupe’s costuming guidelines.
Character Development
All members are expected to choose a character name and develop a background appropriate to their role within the troupe. Character development helps establish your place within our fictional court and provides a foundation for interacting with fellow performers and festival guests.
You do not need an elaborate backstory or previous acting experience. Our directors can provide guidance and resources to help you develop a character that feels natural and enjoyable to portray.
Attendance & Participation
Members must be able to participate in at least 50% of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival’s scheduled performance days each season. Consistent participation helps maintain our performances, support fellow troupe members, and ensure we have enough performers for scheduled activities.
Members are also expected to attend practices regularly and communicate with the directors about scheduling conflicts or anticipated absences. We recognize that members have commitments outside the troupe and encourage open communication when scheduling challenges arise.
Terpsichory performs at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival seven weekends in August and September, totaling 16 performance days. Each festival day includes multiple scheduled stage performances, along with opportunities for additional activities, demonstrations, and interactive performances throughout the grounds.
Practices take place year-round, with less frequent gatherings during the winter and increased practice frequency throughout the spring and summer in preparation for the festival season.
Questions?
If you have questions about membership, participation expectations, costuming, or what to expect as part of Terpsichory Courtly Dance Troupe, please reach out to our directors.
Email us at directors@terpsichory.org. We’d be happy to hear from you!