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Copyright 2011 Rocky Mountain Rider. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Reproduction of any editorial material, artwork and photos is strictly forbidden without express written permission of the publisher. For information about reprint rights, please contact the editor; editor@rockymountainrider.com.

August 2011 issue

      Jeremy Johnson, of Fort Collins , CO , along with some of his equestrian friends, thought that the “Order of Epona” would be the perfect name for a troupe of medieval horseback entertainers they wanted to form to put on performances at fairs and events.

Jill Olivier, on the ground, challenges Taylor Swanson, on Ysma, an Arabian mare.

      Epona was the Gallo-Roman “great mare”; the protector of horses, donkeys and mules (and the goddess of fertility).

      Now, after a year of hard work and practice, Johnson says, “We put on a good show, try hard to interact with the audience and entertain everyone.”

      Each performance begins by developing a story line, which is then choreographed, using history and fantasy to help keep it entertaining. Sword fights, jousting, jumping, and comedy are included. The troupe uses big Gypsy Drum and Shire horses, along with Azteca, Arabian, Paint, mustang and mini horses.

      Completing the fun after each show, rides are offered for a nominal fee to both children and adults.

Jeremy Johnson on Brina, a Shire mare. Photos courtesy Order of Epona.

      Eight riders and extras, totaling about 15 players, perform at about five major and some smaller events each year. The troupe trains twice per week, and Johnson is hoping to attract more performers to join.

      The Order of Epona will entertain during the Bitterroot Scottish-Irish Festival, August 26-28, 2011, at the Daly Mansion grounds, Hamilton , MT.

      The group will also host their own festival — the Order of Epona Medieval & Fantasy Fest, September 24-25, 2011 in Fort Collins .

            Visit the Order of Epona facebook page, or http://eponaentertainment.com, or call 970-472-4024 for more information.

Copyright 2011 Rocky Mountain Rider. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Reproduction of any editorial material, artwork and photos is strictly forbidden without express written permission of the publisher. For information about reprint rights, please contact the editor; editor@rockymountainrider.com.

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