Photo of Mikal Mikal the Ram
Just who is this
Annoying Bard of
No Redeeming Qualities?

Mikal the Ram, (also referred to as Mikal Hrafspa, a Norse name meaning "Goat's song"), is a 40 year old (give or take a century) bard in the Society for Creative Anachronism. He is a member of the College of Bards in Calontir, and held the rank of Olav, or highest level of expertise in the college, until such rankings were abolished. He is a co-founder of the Bardic Circle of Forgotten Sea, and an honorary member of over 14 households. He is the only living bard in Calontir to have offended three different crowns from three different kingdoms in three different camps in one night without being reprimanded or banished. (The bruises are healing.)

Mikal is the third son of a Viking Hersir. The first two sons brought back much gold and honor to their family. Being a devout coward, he outlived them both and inherited.

Mikal has just completed a 115 page saga cycle of poetry in Norse meter and style, in English. JOHNSAGA is the result of several years of convincing himself that man was never meant to write in Old Norse styles. He also has completed a collection of poems, songs and stories entitled The Hornbook of Mikal the Ram. The Hornbook contains thirteen stories and almost as many songs and poems, or, as Mikal puts it: enough material for eight really good events...

J. Michael Shew is a teacher of Art in the Kansas City School District, and a published author of theatrical texts. His stage designs have toured nationally. With his wife, Ginger, he travels around lecturing on the construction and design of sets, theatrical makeup, and special effects on a budget.

Songs:

Stories:

Send e-mail to Mikal: mikal_hrafspa@juno.com


Chivalry Music -- A Community of Independent Artists

For more information, contact:
Kate Akers, kakers@chivalry.com
Updated: January 03, 2007