Frequently Asked Questions.
Is that a real fire?
Yes. Please don't touch it.
Do you live like this all the time?
No. This is a hobby. During the time the show is open to the public we try to be as authentic as practically possible (for example a tenth century latrine isn't going to be of interest to anyone), but as soon as the public leave we put modern shoes on and get the mobile phones out of hiding. Then when the show is done we go home to proper brick built centrally heated houses. Well, most of us do anyway.
Do you ever get injured?
There are always going to be accidents, but we do everything possible to minimise the chance. All our warriors are trained and tested before they take to the field. Likewise all our weapons and kit is safety checked before each and every fight (including training). Serious injuries are very rare, in fact you are more likely to get hurt falling off a chair in plastic camp than you are on the battle field.
What is "plastic camp"?
Plastic camp is the part of the show area that is cordoned off from the public and is where we camp in modern tents. Not everyone can afford (or wants to use) an authentic tent and its a useful space to retreat to when you really want to consume modern food but are wearing full authentic gear.
Is it an expensive hobby?
It doesn't need to be. Your group will probably be able to provide you with enough gear to get through your first couple of shows, after which you will know what you want. Get the basics first (clothes, eating utensils and a pouch). More expensive stuff can be saved up for later. Remember, even members who have been doing this for over 20 years are still collecting kit. Also have a go at making your own, you never know, you may discover a new hobby or even a new business venture.
Do I have to fight?
NO. You don't have to do anything you feel uncomfortable with (although just turning up and sitting in camp all day isn't going to be much fun). If you want to fight go for it. If you want to learn a craft to demonstrate at shows brilliant. In Ormsheim we have people who are dedicated crafters, dedicated living history people, dedicated warriors and then there are the real lunatics that have a go at everything.
Do I need a skill to start with?
No. You can learn from others. We have training weekends where you can try your hand at new skills. Most craft people will happily teach you if you ask nicely. And if you don't want to learn craft skills there are always jobs to do (such as fetching water).
You let women fight?
Of course we do, we are a 21st century group recreating life in the 10th century, not barbarians. And anyway, once on the battlefield all our members are warriors, gender is not an issue.
What about children?
Children are welcome. There are plenty of things that can keep them occupied, authentic games, KiddieVike, story telling and depending on age fire watching and food preparation. Also there are plenty of opportunities for good old fashioned play with other kids. As they get older they can start to participate in battlefield support activities (such as water carrying) and eventually at 16 they can take to the field (as long as they have an appropriate responsible adult with them).
What is "KiddieVike"?
KiddieVike is the greatest test of a warriors bravery. Essentially it takes two forms. Society KiddieVike is a structured training session where our children are taught how to fight safely to our rules. Public KiddieVIke is an opportunity for the children of the audience (and members) to gang up and pretend to be Vikings by hitting our warriors repeatedly with wooden sticks. It is amazing how many warriors are busy when its time for Public KiddieVike.
Whats the difference between a major, medium and minor event?
A major event is one that requires more than about 80 warriors or about 15 tents in the village, all society members are encouraged to attend as many majors as possible (though we realise that real life takes precedence). A minor event is one that can be handled by a single group, although any fully paid up member can attend. Mediums are in between.
Where are the showers?
At some events we are lucky enough to have access to proper working showers and flush toilets, but don't expect them at every one. If you absolutely need to have a shower every day then this probably isn't the hobby for you.