|
What is Morris Dancing?
Its origins are vague - however, by the end of the 16th Century in Britain, Morris dancing accompanied the seasonal celebrations of the coming of Spring and the Autumn harvest.
Different Styles
Over time, the dances went through many changes and regional variations developed. The upsurge of interest in the 20th Century meant that these styles were taken out of their "home" counties, but their origins can still be detected e.g. Cotswold Morris is typified by the waving of handkerchiefs and the wearing of bells strapped to the dancer's legs. North West Morris dancers dance in clogs & Border Morris dancers often "black up" their faces. Longsword & Rapper dances are performed with swords which link the dancers throughout the dance.
Alive & Kicking!
The interest and revival in Morris Dancing has continued into the 21st Century & there are now over 500 teams in Britain as well as teams formed abroad e.g. in Canada, USA, Hong Kong and Australasia. We have many of the styles with us at our festival and we hope you enjoy the performances.
Further Information:
www.morrisdancing.org This Festival is the climax to the York Morris summer season so now is an ideal time to give it a go as the practice season begins for next year's public performances. In York there are three teams and if you would like to know more about them visit:
www.ebormorris.org.uk
www.acornmorris.co.uk www.minsterstrays.org.uk |
|