LEONARDTOWN, Md. — RenFest Southern Maryland has officially unveiled its 2026 festival storyline, “The Adventures of Robin Hood,” promising a lively blend of authentic medieval history, lighthearted comedy, and swashbuckling fun. The upcoming season will bring the legendary outlaw’s tale to life through improvised storytelling, character-driven comedy, and dynamic stage combat.
To populate its forest of heroes, villains, and townsfolk, RenFest Southern Maryland will hold open auditions in partnership with Maul Dire Entertainment, LLC. Performers of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend, whether they’re aiming for a lead role in the Robin Hood saga or one of the many colorful characters that make up the festival’s vibrant village.
Auditions Set for Early February
There will be three opportunities to audition, all held at the Southern Community Center, located at 20 Appeal Lane, Lusby, MD 20657:
- Friday, February 6, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Auditioners should arrive on time and be prepared to stay for the full audition slot. Auditions will consist of on-the-spot improvised scenes. Those interested in principal roles will also be asked to perform basic, on-the-spot fight choreography. While group songs will be taught during rehearsals, singing is not required at auditions, and no solo singing will be expected.
Roles Available
Casting is underway for a wide range of characters, including:
- Robin Hood
- Maid Marian
- Sheriff of Nottingham
- Prince John
- Little John
- Friar Tuck
- Guy of Gisbourne
- Deorwynn
- Mortianna
Additional ensemble roles include Merry Men, Merry Women, Guards, Celts, and Townsfolk that help bring the Renaissance village to life both onstage and “in the lanes” throughout the festival grounds.
Performance and Rehearsal Details
The 2026 festival will take place May 23 & 24, 2026. Performers will present 30–45 minute shows and remain in character throughout the day as part of the immersive festival experience. Cast members should expect to be on site from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. both days.
Rehearsals for most roles will begin the week of February 16, 2026, primarily in St. Mary’s County. Auditioners should be ready to list any scheduling conflicts at auditions.
For audition-related questions, interested performers may contact the audition team at info@mauldire.com.
Call for Entertainment Acts
Want to bring your unique talent to RenFest Southern Maryland? With 4 performance stages and plenty of room “in the lanes” of our village, we invite minstrels, magicians, jesters, jugglers, and show-folk of all varieties to contact us.
Interested acts should email RenFestSOMD@gmail.com with your name, your phone number, a brief description of your act, and a video clip showing off your talent by February 28, 2026.
RenFest Southern Maryland is also welcoming applications from artisans, merchants, and food vendors interested in joining the festival’s Vendor Village.
To apply, email RenfestSOMD@gmail.com with the subject line “vendor application” and include:
- Your name
- Company name
- Phone number
- A brief description of your products and price range
- 3–5 photos of your wares and/or booth
Vendor applications close January 30, 2026, and selected vendors will be notified by February 6, 2026.
With daring heroes, devious villains, and a bustling marketplace, RenFest Southern Maryland’s 2026 season is shaping up to be an unforgettable adventure straight out of Sherwood Forest. Keep up with RenFest Southern Maryland news by visiting the website at www.renfestsomd.com.
