May Faire Harks Back to Simpler Times

A spring reminiscent of simpler times will be celebrated Saturday at Highland Hall’s May Faire.

In one event, first- through fourth-grade students, accompanied by the school orchestra, will execute a series of skipping dances as they weave ribbons around the Maypole, acting out an English tradition that heralds spring.

“The May Faire is a wonderful day, created to appeal to all ages, that lets you enjoy nature, beauty, music, dancing, good food, crafts and all-around family fun,” said Patti Lightstone, Parent Assn. president and parent of two Highland Hall students. “The fair is put on by the parent association and is not only a fund-raiser, but also helps to build community and lets people know about the school.”

Highland Hall is a private, coeducational, independent Waldorf school with classes from nursery school and kindergarten to 12th grade. Waldorf education is based on the philosophy of Rudolph Steiner, an Austrian scientist and philosopher, who advocated educating through crafts and hands-on learning.

Activities at the fair include crafts such as origami, sock puppets, fresh flower wreaths, wand-making and painting garden pots, T-shirts, hats and faces. There are games for all ages, a used book sale, a white elephant rummage sale, turtle races and a photo booth. Various craft booths will be set up, and there will be a student-run haircut booth and a massage therapist.

A variety of handcrafted toys and books on the Waldorf approach to education will be for sale. The school is also presenting an open house, highlighting student work.

“Our entertainment is an eclectic variety, specially put together to give the fair an atmosphere of involvement and gaiety,” said Monica Morrissey Fishman, parent of two Highland Hall students, who is co-chairing the entertainment. Irish music, English country dancing, a Bulgarian singing group, a rock band from the high school and Sanguine, a local reggae band formerly known as Coos Coos, will be featured. For the younger children, a puppet show will be performed by the kindergarten teachers.

The fair is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at Highland Hall, 17100 Superior St., Northridge. Admission free. Games range from 50 cents to $2, crafts from 50 cents to $10. Food includes a Southwest cafe, salad bar, natural juices and Italian ices. Call (818) 349-1394.