The people behind Hedeby
VikingFest is raised by organizers, artists, builders, storytellers, and community leaders working together long before the gates open.
The VikingFest administrative team
From the stage and marketplace to Kidgard, the pyre, the cast, and the gate, this is the crew responsible for turning Mead & Mischief into a living festival.
Finan Svenson
A Kansas City hospitality entrepreneur, immersive-experience producer, and lifelong champion of games and participatory storytelling, Edward founded VikingFest as a place where history, fantasy, music, and community could share one fire. His projects include Apparition, ReRoll Tavern, The Wyld, and Live Laugh LARP.
A strongman, performer, and steady production leader, Wyatt helps turn VikingFest’s ambitious plans into a safe, organized gathering—while also stepping into the living story as the mighty Thunderer.
Shanon works directly with VikingFest’s merchants, makers, and food vendors, coordinating the marketplace that gives Hedeby its color, craft, and flavor.
Brandon oversees the physical festival site, helping shape a functional, welcoming realm from load-in through the final departure.
Katarina strengthens the relationships at the heart of VikingFest, welcoming participants and helping the festival community grow between gatherings.
Jonathan brings the experience and adventurous spirit of Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival to VikingFest, supporting collaborative programming and the living village.
Chris guides the festival cast, helping performers build the encounters, relationships, and improvised moments that make Hedeby feel alive.
Daniel coordinates VikingFest’s principal characters and story continuity. On the grounds, guests will also know him as Sven, the Jarl’s warm-hearted consort.
Frederick leads Kidgard, shaping age-appropriate games, stories, crafts, and adventures for VikingFest’s youngest raiders.
Staci builds the partnerships that help VikingFest grow, connecting sponsors with meaningful ways to support and participate in the gathering.
Rusty helps guard the threshold between the everyday world and Hedeby, welcoming arrivals and keeping the festival entrance moving.
Thorin Badgersson
Danial coordinates the evening pyre and its powerful closing ritual, bringing together fire, rhythm, remembrance, and the gathered community.
A Kansas City musician and experienced live-entertainment collaborator, Michael helps assemble and support the eclectic performers who give VikingFest its sound, energy, and after-dark spirit.
Want to help build the next chapter of VikingFest?
Join the cast & crew