Virago Alley Presents: Warriors in Bloom
Virago Alley, the non-profit behind The Richmond Renaissance Faire, brings history to life on the stunning grounds of Agecroft Hall & Gardens. Warriors In Bloom is a celebration of bold women who dared to defy conventions, changing history in the process.
Virago Alley seeks to reclaim the word “virago”—once used to scorn women of strength—to invite others to feel empowered in spite of the expectations that society has placed on them. A virago is traditionally a woman who leads, who resists, who dares. This event is not just a tribute, but a declaration of identity to honor viragos past and inspire those yet to come.
This immersive event spotlights legendary figures such as Joan of Arc, Tomyris, Lagertha, The Dahomey Amazons, Boudica, Rani Durgavati and the fierce pirate duo Anne Bonny and Mary Read, through a mix of performances, lectures, storytelling, crafting activities, and an open-air artisan market. Enjoy local vendors, historically inspired fare, and a variety of family-friendly activities in a setting that perfectly blends past and present.
Warriors In Bloom is presented by Virago Alley in partnership with Agecroft Hall & Gardens and Richmond Moon Market.
In remembrance to these brave women, tickets will go on sale on Joan of Arc Feast Day, Friday, May 30th.
More details to come.
Dual Shamshir Workshop
Dual Shamshir Workshop
Virago Alley is pleased to announce its second Persian workshop featuring dual Shamshir as well as Shamshir & Separ led by Bizhan Khodabandeh.
The workshop will include introductions to footwork, guards, cuts and select techniques with the dual shamshir as well as shamshir/separ (Persian shield). This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class.
To secure your spot or for more info, please email classes@viragoalley.org.
Cost:
$35
Ages 18+
Youth Shamshir & Separ Workshop
Youth Shamshir & Separ Workshop
Virago Alley is pleased to announce its first youth workshop featuring Persian Shamshir and Separ led by Bizhan Khodabandeh. The shamshir is one of the most iconic weapons from Persia dating back to the 9th century through the 18th. The Separ - also called “dahl” in India - is the Persian small shield.
This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class.
To secure your spot or for more info, please email classes@viragoalley.org.
What to expect:
The workshop will include introductions to footwork, guards, cuts and select techniques with the shamshir and separ.
Cost:
$20
Ages 13-18
Medieval Dagger Workshop
New Virago Alley Workshop!!
This medieval dagger workshop is going to be led by, Patrick Glynn. The rondel dagger design began during the 14th century due to the evolution of plate armor. By the 15th century it was a common sidearm for knights. With a triangular prism like blade, it’s designed to break links in mail (“chain mail”).
We only have 6 slots available due to the limited amount of gear we currently have. We will be doing first come first serve with folks on a wait list. This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class. To secure your spot, you will need to respond to this email and pay the fee. If you don’t get a spot, don’t worry because we will be doing future workshops as well as repeat workshops.
What to expect:
This is a beginner class.
-Practice the combat dagger styles of Meyer, Fiore, Talhoffer
-Learn the historical context of daggers in the medieval period.
About the instructor:
Patrick has studied Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) for 15 years and is a former competitor. He is versed in various dagger styles as well as long sword, Ringen (wrestling), saber and armored combat.
Cost/time/location:
$35 (Students $25)
Sunday, May 4th 2-5pm
At Gallery5 200 W. Marshall St