Annual event takes place this weekend

Queen Elizabeth I is coming to Kent State to host the Yuletide Feaste, which opens tonight in the Student Center Ballroom.

The Yuletide Feaste Tonight through Saturday, Dec. 6 doors at 7 p.m. show at 8 p.m. Tickets: Tonight: $40 per person, $35 for students, $30 per person in groups of 12 or more Fri & Sat: $45 per person, $40 for students Tickets can be ordered by calling the University Conference Bureau at 330-672-3161 today and tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This 36-year-old tradition consists of members of the Kent State Chorale who will don traditional, Renaissance-style costumes and play the part of the queen and her royal court. Students auditioned for the speaking roles.

Scott MacPherson, the director of choral activities, is in charge of the choir’s performance. This is MacPherson’s first year being a part of the Yuletide Feaste.

“It’s been many hours of preparation,” he said. “I’m excited because I’ve never seen one before.”

The ballroom has been transformed into the queen’s medieval castle, and a brass ensemble will play a fanfare to announce the queen’s arrival.

“We don’t have a sellout this year, but we think it’s a good outreach for the community and the university,” said Susan O’Karma, Kent Student Center associate director .

A traditional English dinner will be served and will be followed by a performance by a juggler and the Kent State Chorale. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Chorale to sponsor spring touring.

“I’ve been stressed about it because of course, being my first one, I want it to be successful,” MacPherson said. “But I’m looking forward to it now.”

The Yuletide Feaste will be held tonight through Saturday in the Student Center Ballroom.

Contact College of the Arts reporter Lauren Crist at [email protected].