Children watched in awe as a burly blacksmith forged rings out of white-hot iron and a woman with a charming Scottish accent told stories of metal workers from classical mythology.

This scene repeated itself four times daily at the Gypsy Time Traveler show at the Kern County Fair.

“I thought it was very creative and original,” said audience member Katie Metz after the show.

The topic of each show encompasses a broad range of storytelling from different cultures all relating to blacksmithing. As Christy Horne tells the stories, her husband Michel Olson makes a variety of items using traditional metal working techniques. At the end of the show, the items made are raffled off to the audience members. Last year, they gave away 4,800 handmade items.

“I thought it was interesting when they were telling the myths,” said Pat Aguilar when asked about her favorite part of the show.

The Gypsy Time Travelers describe their show as “edutainment” and “fabulous storytelling with live anvil accompaniment.”

“We trick you into learning,” said Horne with a grin.

Although the act may present itself as a children’s show, it’s actually intended for adults.

“Adults really love our show,” said Horne.

The Gypsy Time Travelers was born almost 20 years ago in Columbia State Historic Park in Columbia, Calif. Originally the show focused on California Gold Rush related history, but expanded into different presentations based around storytelling and blacksmithing.

Horne and Olson decided to pack up and take the show on the road and this year is the couple’s 15th year on the road.

The duo has 25 different half-hour presentations they put on for an audience which averages over 300 people. The show itself is given from a stage built into a rig that resembles a great wooden castle that the two have named Florence.

“It’s constantly changing. I try to add more every year,” said Horne enthusiastically.