Fort Griffin Fandangle preserves history through theatrical performance in Albany

ALBANY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The 87th Fort Griffin Fandangle has a long history of preserving Shackelford County’s history through theatrical performances.

It was William Shakespeare who said, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”

The City of Albany is embracing that quote as it prepares for its 87th Annual Fort Griffin Fandangle. Although the performances have evolved, Lorna Ayers, the Fandangle’s Artistic Director, explained how a 1938 high school senior play sparked the entire event.

“It was called Dr. Shackleford’s Paradise, and it was so popular that they performed it the next year; and the next year, it was so popular that the town said, ‘Hey, we want to participate in this wonderful play.’ So that’s kind of where it started, and it has now evolved into the Fort Griffin Fandangle,” Ayers said.

The Fandangle’s historic roots run deep, and the performance inspired the Texas Outdoor Musical performed at Palo Duro Canyon. Much of the history portrayed at the Fandangle comes from tales of old Fort Griffin, located roughly 16 miles north of Albany. Assistant Site Manager for Fort Griffin, Eric Abercrombie, spoke about how their connection to the Fandangle helps keep their history alive.

“It means a lot to us because it helps get the word out, and it also brings a lot of visitations. We’re trying to bring in more visitors so they can see the history and experience the site. And here, they are drawn to the town, to the Fandangle, and then they come out here as an extension to experience the real thing,” Abercrombie said

Lorna Ayers has been involved in the Fandangle for over 30 years and says that community members who participate in the performance often stay with the production for many years and even have several generations of families who have made up the cast over the years. Ayers says the camaraderie is so strong amongst castmates that it feels like a second family.

“A cast that ranges from two-year-olds to people that are very wise in their years. It’s a lot of fun. And, you know, we start out in the cold weather and we end up sweating out here together in our long-sleeved 1800s garb. But it’s just so great,” Ayers said.

Festivities for the Fort Griffin Fandangle begin on June 20 and 21 and continue the following weekend, June 27 and 28.