D - dziennikarz
M - Margaret (dziewczyna)
D: Hello everyone! Every year hundreds of people come here to Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire to participate in the Robin Hood Festival. For one week, this otherwise calm place is filled with fans of mediaeval attractions. Let’s hear more about them from Margaret, one of this year’s participants.
Hello, Margaret! How are you?
M: Hello, I’m great, thank you! And you?
D: Great, thank you for asking!
There are so many people here, I think that the atmosphere is fantastic. Are you enjoying the festival?
M: Yes, I think it’s amazing! I’ve been here since the opening at 9 o’clock. It was a little bit too early for me because in order to get here I had to get up at 6.30. So, at first, I didn't want to come, but now, I am very happy to be here. The atmosphere is fantastic. My family is here with me. We came here by bicycle so luckily, we didn’t have to pay for the parking – only car owners have to do that.
D: 6.30? That's early! But it’s great you are happy now, especially after waking up so early! Yes, the parking is free if you come by bicycle. How do you like the organisation of the festival?
M: Well, it's great. I think the line‑up is very rich. There are so many attractions and it’s hard to decide what to do! It’s a great opportunity to learn something about mediaeval traditions. For example, before I came here I didn’t know what jousting was, and now I have a chance to watch and try it…but I’m not sure if I want to.
D: Why?
M: It seems dangerous, so maybe I’ll just watch - I don’t know. My brother is very excited about it though.
D: Is there anything else you like about the festival?
M: I like the fact that I didn’t have to pay for one general ticket. It’s a good idea to pay only for the attractions that you really want to enjoy. I think some activities are boring, so I can just ignore them and choose the attractions I like.
D: I absolutely agree, it is a very good idea to pay only for the attractions you choose. This way more people can take part in this festival because it’s not too expensive. So, Margaret, which attractions have you already checked out?
M: Oh, not so many. I have already visited some craft stands. I’m waiting for the meeting with Robin Hood… but I haven’t seen him yet.
D: I heard that he’s going to tell stories about his adventures. What do you know about Robin Hood?
M: I know that he was a legendary English archer, but that’s not really interesting for me. I don’t like archery. But I like the fact he was famous for stealing from the rich and giving to the poor, and that his love was a beautiful girl, Marion. My brother really likes his adventures, that’s why we’re here, in Sherwood Forest. In my family we like to spend time together and share our passions.
D: I understand. So you’re not a fan of archery but you’re waiting to meet Robin Hood anyway. Is there anything else you’d like to see?
M: The stand I want to see the most is the one with costumes. I still haven't. It’s the next item on my list. I really want to make my own dress!
D: Sounds good! Do you want to be a fashion designer?
M: Not really, no - I am not very good at drawing. I just love nice clothes and I’ve always wanted to learn how to make a dress.
D: I see. I heard some beautiful music here earlier. Were you there for the performance?
M: Yes, I am interested in mediaeval music so my brother and I were there. It was a show with mediaeval songs and dance. Unfortunately, my brother hated it, so he quickly left to get a drink and a snack. We’re eating here all the time by the way. The food is so delicious and cheap, too!
D: I agree! I have to get a snack, too. The food smells amazing and I feel hungry again! Anyway, are you coming to see the magician?
M: Oh, I didn’t know that there was a magician! I love magic tricks! I'm going for sure. I've seen jesters wandering around. They’re very funny. One of them scared me, but then he started making funny faces and I started laughing. It's such a nice idea. Mediaeval market and stands are one thing, but the people in costumes really create this special atmosphere.
D: Haha, I know what you mean. They’re hilarious! What are your plans for the rest of the day?
M: Well, the re‑enactment of one of Robin Hood's adventures starts at 5 and I really want to see it. I think it will be a great show. It took months of preparation! I saw a poster and the costumes looked very real. Then we’re planning to go for a walk. I'm not sure yet. But we definitely want to be back for the fireworks. The firework show starts at eight, three hours after the re‑enacment, and my family can’t miss it! We’re big fans of fireworks and we watch them whenever we can.
D: Oh, yes. I love fireworks as well. Margaret, thank you for chatting with me. Have fun at the festival.
M: You too, bye