BEMIDJI, Minn. (Sept. 27, 2011) — Tickets for the 43rd Annual Madrigal Dinners at Bemidji State University will begin Monday, Oct. 3, at the Bangsberg Fine Arts Complex box office.

Performances of this Yuletide tradition of northern Minnesota will be held Friday through Sunday, Dec. 2-4, and Friday and Saturday, Dec. 9-10, in the Beaux Arts Ballroom in Bemidji State’s upper Hobson Memorial Union. The Sunday, Dec. 4, performance will begin at 5 p.m.; all other shows begin at 7:00 p.m.

Singers will recreate the atmosphere of a renaissance feast once held in English castles, bringing to life the regal pageantry and ceremonial pomp of Merrie Olde England. The evening features music from the Royal Court, Minstrels, Beggars, Cellar Keepers, Recorders, and a masque presented by the King’s Players –– all while guests enjoy a five-course dinner.

“Each year, we entertain thousands of guests who have either made this event a holiday tradition or are discovering it for the first time,” said Dr. Brad Logan, professor of music at Bemidji State and director of the Madrigal Dinners. “As always, we anticipate a feast fit for a king and pageantry to delight both the eyes and the ears.”

The Madrigal Dinners were founded at BSU under the tenure of Dr. Paul Brandvik, professor emeritus of vocal music. The tradition caught on with audiences and is now performed by various groups across the country.

All seating is at round tables to enhance the comfort of the audiences. The cost is $36 per person.

Tickets are available only through advanced sale and can be purchased by mail or in person at the Madrigal Dinner box office. Ticket orders cannot be taken over the phone or online.

Box office hours are 9 a.m. to noon and 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For additional information call the Bemidji State University Department of Music at (218) 755-3406.