Newly unionized cast members are on strike at the Buena Park location of Medieval Times this week, calling for increased wages, better workplace conditions and less of what multiple cast members believe to be hostile responses from management at the world-famous dinner-theater chain.

On Monday the scent of roast meat drifted through the parking lot as the sky dimmed. Nearly 20 union queens, knights, royal advisors, trumpeters and squires gathered in and near the smoking section, some wrapped in blankets, some clutching hot drinks on the 57-degree night. One played a flute, carnations attached at the far end, while two others sparred with fake swords. Some took turns in rotation flanking the entryway to the parking lot, waving at vehicles headed to the show and an evening of roast chicken, basted potatoes and corn on the cob all eaten hands-only with steins of ale at the ready. The picketers hoisted signs for colleagues and guests to read on their way in: “UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE STRIKE” printed in bold, red letters.

“We love our jobs,” said Erin Zapcic, who plays Queen Doña Maria Isabella and serves as a steward for the new union. “We’re not happy to be out here. As exciting as it is to take a stand for something, we’re doing this because we felt like we had to. Medieval Times has fought this every step of the way; they have drawn this out as much as they possibly can. And ... they continue to show us their true colors over and over and over again. They have flat-out told...

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