Re-enactment

A re-enactor takes on the role of someone from the past and dresses and acts in the relevant way. They entertain, and educate people about the past.

There are re-enactment groups for most historical periods. The groups perform in all sorts of places, for example county councils, clubs, stately homes, schools, museums, castles and country parks.

To be a re-enactor you need:

• an interest in history
• enthusiasm
• common sense
• the ability to act
• a good sense of humour!

Some members of Sealed Knot, a Civil War re-enactment society, describe a day at work:

If we are at an event, we wake up in our tents and then have a good breakfast! Next we’ll have a drill where we practice our battle skills. Then it’s time to talk to the public and tell them more about “our” lives as Roundheads and Cavaliers. In the afternoons we form up for the battle re-enactment… and then we do battle! The whole day at an event is a big performance; it is tiring and rewarding… Would we recommend being re-enactors? Yes, yes and most definitely YES!

Find out more about the Sealed Knot, visit their website.

The National Association of Re-enactment Societies works with the police and government to ensure that its member organisations are all run safely and professionally. Visit their website to find contact details for all their members.

Children can become re-enactors (although you won’t be able to fight in a battle if you are under 16). Remember that you fancy getting involved; you must have permission from your parent or guardian.