Odd News

Pirate scene hooks recruits

(Reuterrs)
Updated: 2006-08-22 20:48

NEW YORK  - Shuhe Hawkins wanted to be a pirate when he grew up. Apparently, he was not alone.

Hawkins is part of a subculture of pirate lovers across the globe, a growing tribe that encompasses history buffs, musicians, actors and hipsters.

A Mauritian fishing boat sails past the 'Flor de la Mar', a small replica of a pirate galleon, taking tourists along the East coast of Mauritius towards Ile aux Cerfs on the Indian Ocean island, in this November 13, 2003 file photo. Across the United States, from New York City, to Portland, Oregon, the pirate movement has spawned pirate bars, social circles, bands, festivals, magazines and apparel. It's unclear where it began, but pirates are clearly in vogue. [Reuters]

Across the United States, from New York City to Portland, Oregon, the pirate movement has spawned pirate bars, social circles, bands, festivals, magazines and apparel.

Devotees are attracted by pirate fashions, the spirit of rowdiness and the opportunity to engage in anti-establishment behavior. It's unclear where it began, but pirates are clearly in vogue.

"We are in the throes of its real peak," said Hawkins, 35, who performs as pirate Luc the Lucky in Portland. "Pirates are like the new cowboys."

Modern pirates fall into several categories. There are the re-enactment crews, which perform in staged battles at parks, yacht clubs and festivals.

There are music groups, like Portland-based Captain Bogg & Salty, that have adopted the pirate as their symbol, dress the part and typically attract a pirate-centric crowd.

And then there are the non-performers, who simply like to dress as pirates.

'MORE FUN'

"We've had a lot more fun being pirates," said Christine Markel Lampe, who performs as female buccaneer Jamaica Rose. Lampe said she took to the role a while back after a pirate crew "kidnapped" her from a Renaissance fair.