Medieval Times in Lyndhurst has broken 34 years of tradition by casting the show’s first queen ruler.

“Where previously our female characters played in more supportive roles, we are now showing a woman fully in charge, a woman whose authority is sometimes challenged, but she quickly rises to the occasion as a strong leader, squelching opposition,” Medieval Times general manager Ingrid Hunt said in a statement.

Actress Erin Zapcic portrays Queen Dona Maria Isabella. She inherits the throne from her father King Carlos, according to the show’s storyline.

“[Guests] would always glow for the princesses. But with a queen walking in…I can’t wait to see how they respond to the queen,” says Joshua Callahan, who portrays the lord marshal in the show.

The idea for Queen Dona Maria Isabella came in part from guest feedback that they would like to see more women having significant roles in the show. Plans for the character have been in the work for more than a year, according to Medieval Times officials.

Tickets to the show in Bergen County can be purchased at the Medieval Times website.