Clinics and a tryout for jesters of the 82nd Mountain State Forest Festival will begin in April. Randolph County students who will be enrolled in grades sixth through tenth by September 1, 2018 are eligible.

Jester applicants will be judged on an original paragraph of 100 words or less on “Why I Want To Be a Jester;” a group routine including simple dance steps to be taught during jester clinics; and their own individual 1-2 minute routine. Participants also will be judged on their appearance, attitude, smile, personality and gymnastics ability. An educator reference, an attendance and grade report, and a personal reference will be required.

To be eligible, participants must attend all jester clinics at the D&E Memorial Gym, which are scheduled from 6:30-8:00 pm on April 24th, 6:30-8:00 pm on April 25th, and 6:30-8:00 pm on April 26th. Tryouts will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at the D&E Memorial Gym. Keeping with the festival traditions, the mandatory parent meeting is set for 6:30 pm on April 24th at the D&E Memorial Gym.

Jester tryout applications are available at the Mountain State Forest Festival office. A parent or guardian must sign the release portion of the application before any student can participate in the clinics or tryouts. The Mountain State Forest Festival jesters are included in all minor court activities including school tours, coronation and parades.

This year’s theme is “The Majestic Roads Lead to Royalty” and the jesters will be sure to capture the attention and hearts of audiences everywhere as they tumble, dance, and perform for Maid Silvia, her court, and patrons of the 82nd Mountain State Forest Festival. This year’s festival will be held from September 29th through October 7th, 2018.

Anyone interested can call the Forest Festival Office at 304-636-182.