The Story
The focus of the Mid Michigan Renaissance Festival is on King Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Von Cleves. The story began in 1539. After Hans Holbein was summoned to paint portraits of Anne and her sister Amelia. Hans was asked not to flatter the sisters when painting their portraits. When Henry reviewed the portraits, he ended up choosing Anne. In March 1539 negotiations began to court Anne. Cromwell oversaw the talks and a marriage treaty was signed October 4th. Though Anne wasn't brought up with cultural sophistication, which was Henry's desire in a bride, he learned to appreciate her ability in needlework and her love of playing card games.
This is where we at MMRF has taken the story to a new level. The festival focuses on King Henry and Anne's relationship. The two have decided to come to Anne's home region of Cleves. They came to Cleves to enjoy the local festivities hosted by Duke of Cleves.
What are the details of their visit to Cleves? You'll have to join us at the festival to see. We hope to see there!