Virago Alley Presents: Warriors in Bloom
An unconventional Ren Faire honoring the legacy of fearless rebels across the ages.
Warriors in Bloom is a historical showcase transcending the spirit of a typical Ren Faire. For one day only on August 2, from 12-5 PM, Virago Alley will transform the stunning grounds of Agecroft Hall & Gardens to create an immersive renfaire-style event featuring local artisans, performers, combat demonstrations, and activities suitable for all ages.
The event will feature bold figures who exhibited bravery and defied social norms. History has defined them as “viragos,” the latin word for “female warrior.” Warriors in Bloom is not just a tribute, but a declaration of identity to honor viragos past and inspire those yet to come. Virago Alley invites others to feel empowered in spite of the expectations that society has placed on them.
Warriors in Bloom supports the development of the Richmond Ren Faire coming in 2026.
What you can expect:
Over 60 Local Artisans, Live Music by 4 featured all female groups
Including: Ferox, Eli Owens, Femme Celtique and Gusher, Food Trucks, Ale, Cider, and Meade, Over 20 Sword and Combat Demonstrators, Roll 4 Improv Comedy Live Role Playing Games, Spooky Hollow Storytellers, Witch Trials, All the Saints Puppet Theater, Shield n Sheath Axe Throwing, Costumes, Calligraphy & Crafting Demos, Interactive Scriptorium, Character Reenactments, RVA Faerie Federation Scavenger Hunts, Weaving & Herbalist Demos, Face Painting, Agecroft Historical Tours, Strength Games, Misting Tent, and so much more!
Dual Shamshir Workshop
Dual Shamshir Workshop
Virago Alley is pleased to announce its second Persian workshop featuring dual Shamshir as well as Shamshir & Separ led by Bizhan Khodabandeh.
The workshop will include introductions to footwork, guards, cuts and select techniques with the dual shamshir as well as shamshir/separ (Persian shield). This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class.
To secure your spot or for more info, please email classes@viragoalley.org.
Cost:
$35
Ages 18+
Youth Shamshir & Separ Workshop
Youth Shamshir & Separ Workshop
Virago Alley is pleased to announce its first youth workshop featuring Persian Shamshir and Separ led by Bizhan Khodabandeh. The shamshir is one of the most iconic weapons from Persia dating back to the 9th century through the 18th. The Separ - also called “dahl” in India - is the Persian small shield.
This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class.
To secure your spot or for more info, please email classes@viragoalley.org.
What to expect:
The workshop will include introductions to footwork, guards, cuts and select techniques with the shamshir and separ.
Cost:
$20
Ages 13-18
Medieval Dagger Workshop
New Virago Alley Workshop!!
This medieval dagger workshop is going to be led by, Patrick Glynn. The rondel dagger design began during the 14th century due to the evolution of plate armor. By the 15th century it was a common sidearm for knights. With a triangular prism like blade, it’s designed to break links in mail (“chain mail”).
We only have 6 slots available due to the limited amount of gear we currently have. We will be doing first come first serve with folks on a wait list. This small class size means you will get quality instruction as our instructors’ attention won’t be too divided amongst a larger sized class. To secure your spot, you will need to respond to this email and pay the fee. If you don’t get a spot, don’t worry because we will be doing future workshops as well as repeat workshops.
What to expect:
This is a beginner class.
-Practice the combat dagger styles of Meyer, Fiore, Talhoffer
-Learn the historical context of daggers in the medieval period.
About the instructor:
Patrick has studied Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) for 15 years and is a former competitor. He is versed in various dagger styles as well as long sword, Ringen (wrestling), saber and armored combat.
Cost/time/location:
$35 (Students $25)
Sunday, May 4th 2-5pm
At Gallery5 200 W. Marshall St