Magical Songs presented by Lady Ardy
Magical songs do not have to be written, or sung, by Pagan musicians to
be “magical.” We all grew up with music. Popular music. Classical music.
Nursery rhyme jingles. These sounds are a part of us. They evoke
feelings within us. Yet we fail to regard them as “magical.” And by this
failure, we lose a powerful source of energy for our rituals. So, let’s
discover some “magical” songs.
Lady Ardy has been a part of the Phoenix Phamily since it’s inception and first festival, in March of 1992.
She is our honored staff crone, and former head of the Phoenix Phamily crone circle.
Her current responsibilites are to host the Festival 101 meet and greet workshop and Facilitate the Honoring ritual.
Rupert Tales and Tunes
Rupert Tales and Tunes, presented by Kyrja
Kids of all ages are invited to bring their parents to hear how Rupert the Rabbit meets the Lord and Lady, and many other new friends while he learns about the seasonal holidays of the Wheel of the Year in this story-time workshop. Many surprises are in store for everyone who joins us. Please bring a chair or blanket.
Kyrja is a Priestess of Undia in the Elemental Witchcraft tradition and an author. She is currently in the process of publishing a series of read-aloud stories for Pagan children called “Rupert’s Tales” which combine story-telling with teaching the Pagan seasonal holidays, as wel as other Pagan tools and ways. Kyrja also loves to write and sing children’s songs, so may burst into song at any given moment!
Astrology and Alchemy
Astrology and Alchemy Presented by Dr. Skip Clark
Deep in the earth, lead is slowly turning into gold through the influence of the stars. In the alchemist’s workshop, the process of turning lead into gold proceeds at a different rate. Meanwhile, the alchemist himself is being changed. This workshop will discuss the historical development of the relationship between astrology and alchemy and the transformation of the alchemist.
Dr. Charles “Skip” Clark has a PhD in Medieval History and is currently teaching at a university in Georgia. Besides courses on the middle Ages, he teaches a course on the history of Witchcraft that covers the period from the ancient world to the present. He also teaches the History and Philosophy of Science. He has published works on astrological medicine and witchcraft and has just finished an edition and translation of a thirteenth century medical astrological work. His next project if he ever finishes being an administrator is a study of northern Italian witches. Skip is a regular presenter at Phoenix Phestival and Autumn Meet and other festivals. He lives in Georgia with a wife, a large number of cats and a dog. Now that he’s getting older, he hopes he’s getting wiser, but the jury is still out on that!
Gathering Etiquette
New to our Festival Environment? We’d like to invite you to attend Gathering Etiquette in the workshop area near the Showers. Lady Ardy hosts a small meet and Greet on Wed. to help you get to know the festival and understand how some things we do, are done a little differently and why.
All social interactions have certain customs that have evolved as ‘correct’ behavior; Pagan gatherings are no different. Included are tips on how to interact with the friendly naked pagans, when throwing a cigarette into a fire is a bad idea, attending ritual, and more!
Rhythm Circle Instruction
Presented by Sean Richards
Drumming can be a great tool for spiritual growth and meditation, linking mind, body and spirit! Learn how to approach a drum circle and join in, the different type of drum circles, etiquette, etc. All levels of drummer are welcome. Bring your drum. Some extra drums may be available first come. Learn the basics of hand percussion. The class is African djembe centered but conga, djun-djun, ashiko, doumbek, and misc. percussion may also be discussed. So bring woodblocks, cow bells, shakers, etc! Your instructor, CongaSean will provide drum music to take home. How to CD’s and workbooks will also be available.