As Ben Jonson (a contemporary of both Mary Sidney and Shakespeare, and the self-proclaimed poet laureate of England) said, "What things we have seen done at the Mermaid!" Of course, he was referring to the Mermaid Tavern on the corner of Friday and Bread Streets in London 400-something years ago, but it's a sentiment that is being taken seriously by a growing number of Mary Sidney devotees today. And then there's always the fact that when word gets out there's a party at Robin's house (The Mermaid Tavern), lots of people show up because they know it's not going to be your usual get-together.
Somewhere between 30 and 40 cars parked along the road, along the driveway, and in the parking area next to the house. At least 60 people attended, perhaps more. I ran a shuttle service with the SwanMobile (shown below) for people that didn't want to walk the 192.5 yards (yep, I measured it in Google Earth).
There was mirth and merriment aplenty. I will posteth a short video on the morrow.
As valet, I greet guests when they arrive at Sweet Swan Lane.
The SwanMobile.
Some of the guests listen to Robin. Others are outside on the patio (the door on the right). And still others are behind the camera.
Ceryn, youngest member and Student Liaison of The Mary Sidney Society, greets guests in the Mermaid Tavern's Great Hall (ha).
Laura and Anna lead the guests in a sing-along of Brush Up Your Shakespeare.
Some of the previously mentioned mirth and merriment.
Robin, Main Mistress of Mirth and Merriment
(as most of you already know).
