I have never re-enacted before

We do not require any experience, only a willingness to turn up, learn, and engage with the process. Full training can be provided for any crafts or activities you wish to participate in, and we have a reading list for the general history of the region, if this interests you.

I don’t have anything to wear

Although we require historically accurate kit (clothing, accessories, and other personal items), we do not require members to have everything up and running before their first event and have a small amount of loaner gear to get you started. We have also produced a comprehensive kit guide, along with recommendations to specific craftspeople.

Re-enacting with us may be a little more challenging, expensive, and time consuming than many other medieval scenes, as very little (if anything) is available off the shelf and only a few makers are skilled enough to reproduce our kit to a good standard. However, you will be supported in ensuring your kit is historically accurate.

Most people aim to get a fully functioning costume over the course of a few months to a year, although this is not by any means a rule.

I am worried about cultural appropriation

Don’t be.

It can be daunting stepping foot into a totally distant culture. However, we approach it with a high degree of accuracy and work closely with archaeologists in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, and further afield to ensure our recreations are high quality.

“Cultural appropriation” typically refers to the disrespectful appropriation of foreign cultures, often taking objects from their correct context or failing to attribute the origins of certain objects. Scientifically accurate and informed re-enactment is the polar opposite.

I would like to get involved, but have very little time / availability

We do not have a minimum attendance requirement (some of our members only attend once every year or two!), although the more you put into it, the more enjoyment you will get out of it.