LEWISTON – Imagine yourself in the center of a medieval courtyard, awaiting the arrival of the king and queen. You are surrounded by knights, minstrels and wenches in the Great Hall, filled with entertainment – and food to be eaten without utensils.

On Saturday, Oct. 13, the Franco-American Heritage Center will offer its inaugural Medieval Feast L/A. Following medieval tradition, royalty is inviting guests to a feast to watch knights compete on horseback – with one exception, there will be no horses.

At the “castle” entrance, a wandering minstrel will welcome the king’s guests. His knights and a fair lot of wenches will also be found among the populace. His squires will usher guests to a forested glen where songs are heard while all await the arrival of the royal couple. A court official will maintain decorum and frivolity for the evening, and ask all to join the royal court for a feast in the Great Hall.

The hall will be divided into sections representing five countries: Britain, Italy, France, Ireland and Germany. Guests will be encouraged to cheer and applaud enthusiastically for their respective kingdoms.

The feast, to be served by wenches, will include soup l’ancienne, a meat and pastry appetizer, lettuce dipped in Roman sauce, half a barbecued chicken, pastry and fruits. Fruit and alcoholic beverages will be served and available at the king’s cash bar throughout the evening.

As part of the entertainment, knights representing their respective kingdoms will battle and defer to the king to choose the ultimate champion. Also, minstrels will play melodies; court dancers will perform; singers will woo; and strolling players will entertain.

Guests are encouraged to wear medieval fashion, but it’s optional.

Although the event has a “medieval” rating, it is unique, discretionary family entertainment.

Tickets are $30. Call 689-2000. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 5:30 p.m., when squires will open the “castle gates.”