Uncover the Best Places in the UK to Experience Traditional English Morris Dancing
If you’re fascinated by the vibrant and ancient tradition of English morris dancing, you’re in for a treat. This article will guide you through the best places in the UK to witness and even participate in this captivating folk dance.
What is Morris Dancing?
Before we dive into the best places to experience morris dancing, let’s briefly understand what it is. Morris dancing is a traditional English folk dance that has been around for centuries. It involves a group of dancers, often dressed in elaborate costumes, performing choreographed routines to music, usually accompanied by bells, sticks, or handkerchiefs. The dance is deeply rooted in English culture and is celebrated for its energy, camaraderie, and historical significance.
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The Different Styles of Morris Dancing
Morris dancing is not a monolithic tradition; it encompasses several styles, each with its unique characteristics.
Cotswold Morris
This style, originating from the Cotswold region, is one of the most well-known. It is characterized by its use of handkerchiefs, sticks, and bells. Dancers often perform in teams, known as “sides,” and their dances are typically more formal and structured[2].
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Border Morris
Border morris is a style that hails from the English-Welsh border. It is known for its darker, more mysterious attire and the use of black face paint. The dances are often more energetic and less formal than Cotswold morris[1].
North West Morris
This style is from the north-west of England and is distinguished by its use of clogs and ribbons. North West morris dances are often performed in processions and are known for their lively rhythms.
Top Places to Experience Morris Dancing in the UK
Bedfordshire: Dunton Wassail
If you’re looking for a comprehensive morris dancing experience, the Dunton Wassail in Bedfordshire is a must-visit. Scheduled for January 4th, 2025, this event features morris dancing from Letchworth Morris, Bedford Morris, and Hicca Hoodlums. The evening includes a processional Abbots Bromley Horn Dance, cider-soaked toast hung in the trees, and traditional music sessions at The March Hare pub. It’s a perfect blend of community spirit, traditional dance, and festive atmosphere[1].
Herefordshire: Westons Cider Wassail
On January 4th, 2025, head to Herefordshire for the Westons Cider Wassail, organized in conjunction with Westons Cider. This event features the Silurian Morris side, one of the country’s longest-running Border Morris teams. The evening includes a raffle, atmospheric procession into the orchard, and plenty of apple juice and cider. Be prepared for darkness, mud, and real fire, as the event promises to be an authentic and immersive experience[1].
Kent: Hoodening and Wassail
In Kent, the Hoodening and Wassail event at the Sandwich Medieval Centre on January 4th, 2025, offers a unique blend of hoodening performances and morris dancing. The day starts with a hooden horse performance at the Crispin Inn, followed by orchard blessings and more hoodening at the Time and Tide Taproom. The event culminates in a wassail with Bower Street Morris and mulled wine at the Sandwich Medieval Centre[1].
London: Wassail in the Pleasaunce
For those in London, the Wassail in the Pleasaunce on January 5th, 2025, is a great opportunity to experience morris dancing in a urban setting. Organized by Pip!, this event features the Greenwich Morris, traditional music, and a drumming workshop. The event connects the wassail tradition to the Victorian burial ground beneath the Pleasaunce, adding a historical and cultural depth to the celebration[1].
How to Get Involved
If you’re inspired to join in the fun, here are some practical steps to get involved in morris dancing:
Find a Local Morris Side
The Morris Federation’s Teamfinder is an excellent resource to locate morris sides near you. You can search by location, team name, or dance style to find a group that suits your interests[3].
Attend Classes and Workshops
The English Folk Dance and Song Society offers classes and courses on morris dancing. For example, you can learn lively Cotswold morris dances in a friendly and accessible class starting on February 11th, 2025[4].
Join a Morris Dance Event
Many events, like the ones mentioned above, welcome participants and spectators alike. Joining these events is a great way to experience the energy and camaraderie of morris dancing firsthand.
A Day in the Life of a Morris Dancer
To give you a deeper insight into the world of morris dancing, here’s a glimpse into what a typical day might look like for a morris dancer:
Morning Practice
- Warm-Up: Start with a physical warm-up to prepare for the energetic dances ahead.
- Rehearsal: Practice the choreographed routines, focusing on timing and coordination.
- Costume Preparation: Ensure that the costumes, including bells, sticks, and handkerchiefs, are ready for the performance.
Afternoon Performance
- Travel: Travel to the event location, which could be a village fete, a wassail, or a folk festival.
- Setup: Set up the performance area, which might include arranging the musicians and preparing the ground.
- Performance: Perform the dances, engaging with the audience and maintaining the energy and spirit of the tradition.
Evening Celebration
- Socializing: After the performance, socialize with fellow dancers and the audience, often over food and drink.
- Music Session: Participate in traditional music sessions, which can include singing and playing instruments.
Quotes from Morris Dancers
To add a personal touch, here are some quotes from morris dancers that highlight the essence of this tradition:
- “Morris dancing is not just about the dance; it’s about the community and the camaraderie. It’s a way to connect with our heritage and with each other.” – John, Letchworth Morris
- “The best part of morris dancing is the energy and the joy it brings. Whether we’re performing in a village or at a large festival, the spirit remains the same.” – Sarah, Bedford Morris
- “It’s a tradition that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s our duty to keep it alive. But it’s also incredibly fun and rewarding.” – Tom, Silurian Morris
Practical Insights and Actionable Advice
If you’re considering joining a morris side or attending an event, here are some practical insights and tips:
Be Prepared
- Weather: Morris dancing often takes place outdoors, so be prepared for various weather conditions.
- Physical Demands: The dances can be physically demanding, so ensure you’re in good health and fitness.
- Costume: Invest in a good pair of bells and comfortable shoes, as these are essential for many morris dances.
Respect the Tradition
- Learn the History: Understand the historical context and significance of morris dancing to appreciate it fully.
- Follow Instructions: Pay attention to the instructions given by the team leader or instructor to ensure you’re performing the dances correctly.
Enjoy the Experience
- Relax and Have Fun: Morris dancing is about enjoyment and community, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you make mistakes.
- Engage with Others: Interact with fellow dancers and the audience to get the most out of the experience.
Comparative Table of Morris Dancing Events
Here is a comparative table of some of the events mentioned earlier to help you decide which one to attend:
| Event Name | Location | Date | Time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dunton Wassail | Church Farm, Dunton | Jan 4, 2025 | 6:30pm onwards | Morris dancing, Abbots Bromley Horn Dance, cider-soaked toast |
| Westons Cider Wassail | Much Markle, Herefordshire | Jan 4, 2025 | 7pm-9pm | Border Morris, raffle, atmospheric procession |
| Hoodening and Wassail | Sandwich Medieval Centre | Jan 4, 2025 | 4pm | Hoodening performances, Bower Street Morris, mulled wine |
| Wassail in the Pleasaunce | East Greenwich Pleasaunce | Jan 5, 2025 | 1pm-2:30pm | Greenwich Morris, traditional music, drumming workshop |
| Twelfth Night Tudor Wassail | Michelham Priory House & Gardens | Jan 25, 2025 | 2:45pm-5pm, 6pm-9pm | Mythago morris dancers, Rattlebag, Gallyard Tudor Dancers, torchlit procession |
Detailed List of What to Expect at a Morris Dancing Event
Here’s a detailed list of what you might expect when attending a morris dancing event:
- Traditional Music: Live music played on instruments such as the accordion, fiddle, or melodeon.
- Choreographed Dances: Highly coordinated dances performed by teams of dancers.
- Costumes and Bells: Dancers dressed in elaborate costumes, often with bells, sticks, and handkerchiefs.
- Community Spirit: A strong sense of community and camaraderie among the dancers and spectators.
- Food and Drink: Traditional food and drinks, such as mulled cider and sausages.
- Workshops and Sessions: Opportunities to participate in workshops or music sessions.
- Historical Significance: Insights into the historical context and significance of morris dancing.
- Interactive Elements: Audience participation, such as joining in the dances or singing along to traditional songs.
In conclusion, morris dancing is a vibrant and enriching tradition that offers a unique blend of culture, community, and physical activity. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just curious about this ancient folk dance, the UK has numerous events and opportunities to immerse yourself in the world of morris dancing. So, grab your bells and handkerchiefs, and get ready to experience the joy and energy of this timeless tradition.
