Mark began his historical career through medieval re-enactment in 1986 moving on to set up and run his own medieval society, The Gloucester Household (also known as The Company Ecorcheur). In early 1997, Mark became a full time
self-employed Historical Interpreter, becomming Warwick Castle's resident Red knight.
Drawing upon his twenty years of experience in historical combat, fencing awards and his proficiency in stage combat, Mark began tailoring presentations and shows for historical venues across the country. Growing a reputation for providing high quality, authentic and entertaining displays, Mark Vance Historical Entertainments has developed its products from a single interpreter to a large scale event provider.
On gaining major contracts with English Heritage, including developing the Knights Tournament of Foote series, Mark has become one of the premier providers of 'Time Traveller' & 'Just for Kids' events, working in a vast amount of the UK's historical gems and is approved to accompany Learning Groups to English Heritage properties.
Mark developed into offering school workshops in the early 2000's, allowing children to particiapte in a kinaesthetic, interactive and creative approach to learning about our history, whether in school or at a specific historical venue.
Promotions and Press work is a major part of the business and Mark has worked for Local, National and International Radio, TV and Paperbased Media as a consultant and performer.
Event Management
Mark Vance Historical Entertainments can provide performances to compliment larger events or can provide Event Management Services. This may be anything from consultation through to sourcing and providing historical and costumed entertainers such as Musicians, Fire-Eaters or even a traditional Victorian Father Christmas.
Mark Vance holds an enhanced CRB check, is one of the main registered providers of English Heritage's and Cardiff Castle's education programmes and holds £5 Million Public Liability Insurance.
Additionally, any entertainer booked through Mark Vance Historical Entertainments will also be covered by the £5 Million Public Liability Insurance Policy.
Copies of Risk Assessments and insurance papers are available upon request.