A Vanser’s Supper

History

The Vansers have adopted a traditional way of eating that is the same for formal gatherings and celebrations. The tradition is broken into seven parts, each with different functions that happen which is accompanied by a meal. The tradition started as a religious dinner ceremony that happens at temple gathering once a week. The formality was considered to be the more entertaining way to host an event for people and has been adopted into theater houses and family celebrations. It is often expected when more than twenty people are present. The tradition extends from just a dinner meal and includes a whole night when an event happens.

Execution

The Greeting period

Ceremonially this happens just before the sun starts to set. All who are going to the Temple meet and speak during this time. When this happens, small finger foods are served and it is understood that these are just foods that satisfy people who have been working all day and are not meant to be filled up on. During this time, people greet, friends and family or they try to make new connections; both trying to make business deals, making new friends or approaching someone for a romantic night. If an informal situation families and their invited guests sit in a particular place, whether it be a table, benches with small table stands or a blanket on the floor for sitting. In formal settings, such as religious ceremonies, theater events, town meetings, business functions or other events, it is expected that any guest of honor, the host, important sponesers and other special guest will sit together close to where the “entertainment” will take place. Other guests will gather themselves at other tables and sit as they please. It is expected that if more than two children will be present, there is a separate area for the children to eat. Often there is a caretaker ready to receive and seat a child. If many children are expected, then, one to two guards are always expected to be present.

Opening Entertainment

Traditionally, in the temple, songs will be played and everyone will participate. After the Host introduces itself, welcomes everyone, says a blessing and he or she calls for some servers to bring food. In less formal situations, the food is brought out while the host is speaking. This is the first meal and normally consist of salads, soups and other vegetable dishes. During this time, one single glass of wine is served to each person. After the food is served The host will generally invite someone to give some words in front of guests. This may be announcements, reading or words of wisdom. It is normally done as part of a small speech while everyone eats. In theater houses a small comical skit or a musical pieces will be played that is often unrelated to the main entertainment. This may be new talent or the professionals warming up.

The First Break

Once the opening entertainment is done a shot of cleansing tea is served. This helps clean the flavors in the mouth to be ready for the next meal. During this time, more music is expected as servants (normally the priest) clear tables. In less formal events this is the time that people excuse themselves to go to the restroom, get fresh air or discuss the opening act with others. During this time, it is typical for the eating area to be empty and people to be in another room walking about.

The Main Entertainment

The host will normally have some people sing a song related to the main event to inform people to return to their seats. The Host is expected to be the last one to return to the eating area. When the song is over, the host will then give the main entertainment. In the Temple, this consists of the high priest giving reading and delivering a speech. In Theater houses and other events this may be a play, ceremony, a symphony or other event. During this time, the main meal is served which is typically a small well cooked portion of meat or fish along with an abundance of filling food. At this time, multiple different types of drinks may be served when requested from a server. A second serving of the main meal is considered to be gluttonous because the Vansers Traditionally only have a small portion of meat at a time.

Second Break

After the main event, smaller finger foods are given for those who want more food. During this time, sounds may be played and format follows the second break. This time cleaning tea is served as a way of letting people know to return to their seats. Typically this happens after song.

Closing Entertainment

The Closing entertainment happens when the last cleaning drink has been served. To continue before this, is considered to be bad etiquette on behalf of the host. The host will thank everyone for coming, review what was discussed or provide background to give context for what happened in the main entertainment. When the host finishes everyone drinks the cleaning tea together to conclude the event. After the Host finishes, dessert is brought out for those who want some. At this time, people would stay to make plans, discuss the event or just leave as they wish. In less formal situations, such as family gathering, this is the time to ask the host about taking leftovers home. If there is any food left over, it is considered rude if the host don’t send the requester home with food that has been served. The only exception if the main meal.