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ELKINS -- Clinics and a tryout for jesters for the 86th Mountain State Forest Festival will begin on Monday.
Randolph County students currently enrolled in the sixth through 10th grades by Sept. 1, 2024, 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 one- to two-minute routine.
Participants will also 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 three Jester clinics at the Elkins High School Gym, which are scheduled from 6:30-8 p.m. on Monday, April 22, Wednesday, April 24, and Thursday, April 25. Tryouts will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 27 at the Elkins High School Gym.
The mandatory parent meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22 at the Elkins High School Gym before the start of the first clinic. An informational meeting will also be held on Wednesday, April 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mountain State Forest Festival Office located at 10 Eleventh Street (the West Virginia Wood Technology Center in the Industrial Park) to answer questions for parents and potential participants.
Jester tryout packets are available for pickup at the Mountain State Forest Festival office or for download at www.forestfestival.com. 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, the Coronation, and parades.
This year's theme is "Timeless Traditions" 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 86th Mountain State Forest Festival. This year's festival will be held from Sept. 28 through Oct. 6.
Anyone interested can call the Forest Festival Office at 304-636-1824 or visit www.forestfestival.com.