Trentino Schools Embrace ‘Jesters, Games, and Rhymes’ Educational Walk
The historic-educational walks from the ancient village of Stranforio to the medieval castle, titled “Jesters, Games, and Rhymes,” started quietly last year among the Arcense schoolchildren. They were reserved for the older preschoolers and their peers in the first two grades of elementary school. Despite their success, it seemed to be just another end-of-term initiative destined to be forgotten. Recently, the cultural councilor Ruggero Morandi revived it, and since last April, he has reintroduced it to schools in Trentino. Within a few weeks, the number of participation requests has been steadily increasing, so much so that a waiting list has been inevitably established. The reason behind the interest in this original educational excursion is the opportunity it offers children to experience an exciting glimpse into the centuries past.
The route of the walk and activities
The involvement of preschoolers and primary school children lasts a full day, from morning to late afternoon, with a series of events that are unlikely to be erased from the young participants’ memories. “Jesters, Games, and Rhymes” begins at 10 a.m. in the small square of the ancient district of Stranforio, where the schoolchildren meet a jester, a comical figure from other times. This eccentric character then guides the children through various adventures and the day’s games.
The group heads along the narrow street leading to the castle. The steep ascent demands a pause in the olive grove, which provides the perfect opportunity for the jester to tell stories and legends of old times. At lunchtime, the children are served an unusual medieval menu, which is eagerly devoured by the diners sitting in the shade of majestic olive trees.
In the afternoon, the children arrive at the courtyard of the manor, which is a large plateau beneath the battlemented medieval structure. Here, they sing cheerful nursery rhymes, dance, and play ancient games, among which the most popular are the “conte” (riddles). The kids are dressed in period costumes, further enhancing their engagement in the performances.
The final event is a guided tour of the castle and the summit of the rock. Afterwards, they return to Stranforio accompanied by the inseparable jester. Councilor Morandi entrusted the organization of this well-conceived initiative to “Teatro Per Caso,” directed by Paola Ruffo, with costumes by Barbara Frizzi and coordination by Sara Maino. “Jesters, Games, and Rhymes” will continue until mid-June when schools close for the summer, then resume in October. Plans are already underway for further excursions next spring.
