by Bea Peterson
On Thursday, December 11, members of the community had an opportunity to visit Hoosac School as students and staff celebrated the school’s 123rd Boar’s Head and Yule Log pageant. Headmaster Dean Foster welcomed everyone and the program began with the lighting of the Yule Candle. Eight Beefeaters proceeded the Boar’s Head procession. Part of the charm of the event is observing the students of varied cultures dressed in the lovely medieval costumes. There is singing, Father Christmas, attendants, troubadours and shepherds, followed by the procession of the three kings and carols. The students were excellent performers and soloists. And the “serious” portion of the program ended.
At intermission a delicious Medieval Banquet was served and shared by cast and guests.
The second part of the program was the bringing in of the Yule Log on which several costumed young children, perhaps future students, rode. There was a jester who, of course, kept everyone laughing and revelers and a Mummer’s Play with St. George and the dragon, kings, various other characters, a sword dance and more Troubadours.
It was a wonderful evening that filled everyone with the holiday spirit.