Theatrical jousting

This type of performance has become very popular at various renaissance fairs by the early 2000s.

[1] Typically a three-act affair, the theatrical joust consists of A variety of colorful characters, either villainous or heroic, give the audience (which is usually divided into sectors based upon the number of "knights") a particular person to root for or against.

As the show must be repeated on a daily or weekly basis, all fights are carefully choreographed and rehearsed.

Horses must be trained to withstand such peculiarities as the clatter of steel weaponry, the occurrence of a rider being knocked from the saddle, and the roar of large crowds.

Special makeup and prop effects are often incorporated into the performance to provide the illusion of violent death or shattering equipment.