Wednesday is the final day to make reservations for the annual Madrigal Dinners presented by Covenant College's Music Department. The dinners are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10.
First offered at Covenant in 1969 by Dr. John Hamm, the Madrigal Dinners have become a community tradition, attracting hundreds of attendees.
The dinner is based on a 16th-century celebration and feast given just before Christmas by the wealthy for their court and friends. Castle dining halls were transformed with the reds and greens of Christmas. Guests would dine, listen to music, dance and "make merry."
The modern-day dinners present the story of the birth of Christ for a true celebration of Christmas.
At Covenant, the historical Great Hall is transformed into a castle-like atmosphere with wreaths, flowers, nearly 1,000 candles and hundreds of feet of garland decorated with fruit, herbs and ribbons.
Courses include all the trimmings of a 16th-century feast, with soup, salad, meat, roasted vegetables, pudding, fruits, cheeses and wassail. For nearly three hours, guests eat a meal prepared by guest chefs and presented by servants attired in authentic peasant costumes. Peasants dance and lavish each guest with attention throughout the evening.
The Madrigal Singers, dressed in authentic Renaissance costumes, will entertain with English carols, madrigals and traditional Christmas music. The costumed Renaissance Consort plays throughout the evening using harp, flute, oboe, viola da gamba, mandolin, violins, percussion and a harpsichord. The singers and consort are conducted this year by guest director David Long.
The event is the product of over a hundred musicians, faculty and support staff who work to make each evening a success. Throughout the evening, jugglers, solo singers, instrumentalists and other entertainers provide distractions in the tradition of Renaissance court life.
The dinner is $60 per person, and reservations can be made by calling 706-419-1453 or emailing sarah.dewaters@covenant.edu. While most tables accommodate eight guests, there are a few tables that seat four. A waiting list is available for those who call after all available seats are reserved.