Morris dancing, a dynamic and vibrant form of English folk dancing, has been capturing gazes and winning hearts for centuries. Named after the Spanish word ‘Moorish,’ this vibrant spectacle was introduced by the Moors who arrived in England during the Middle Ages. Dressed in colourful attire, with bells jangling from their knees, morris dancers perform energetic, rhythmic routines to traditional folk music. Whether you’re a history buff, dance enthusiast, or simply curious, experiencing morris dancing can be a delightful dive into English tradition and culture.
The Distinctive Styles of Morris Dancing
There are several distinct styles of morris dancing, each tied to specific regions of England, and each carrying its own unique charm. The Cotswold style, originating from the charming south-west villages of England, is perhaps the most recognised. Dancers, usually men, perform with handkerchiefs and sticks, adding an extra layer of complexity to their routines. The dances are typically performed during Whitsun (a week after Easter) and on Boxing Day, although impromptu performances can sometimes be spotted during the summer.
Border Morris, on the other hand, originates from the English-Welsh border. It is characterised by its ‘wild’ feel, with dancers often using black face paint and wearing tattered jackets. The dances are traditionally performed during winter, particularly around Christmas.
West country morris, also known as North West morris, hails from the industrial towns of the north west of England. This style is often performed in a procession, with dancers adorning clogs and using decorated short sticks.
Morris Dancing Societies and Groups
Morris dancing is kept alive and vibrant through numerous societies and groups, known as ‘sides’. Sides are made up of six or more dancers who practise regularly and perform at events throughout the year. Each side often has a distinctive outfit, and many have their own particular variant on the traditional dances.
You can experience morris dancing in the countryside at various festivals and day events hosted by these sides. One such event is the Ilmington Morris Men’s Day of Dance in Warwickshire. Dating back to the 19th century, this event showcases Cotswold morris dancing in its traditional setting, with dancers performing around the village throughout the day.
The Bampton Morris Men are another renowned side, performing Cotswold Morris in the quaint village of Bampton, Oxfordshire. Spectators can witness their vibrant performances on late May Bank Holiday, Whit Monday and Late August Bank Holiday.
Festivals – A Celebration of Morris Dancing Tradition
Festivals provide a fantastic opportunity to experience morris dancing in the countryside. These events often attract sides from across the country, creating a colourful and lively spectacle. The Chippenham Folk Festival in Wiltshire is one such event, attracting morris sides from across England and beyond.
Another notable event is the Whitby Folk Week, a week-long celebration of traditional music, dance, and song. Here, spectators can enjoy a variety of morris styles, from Cotswold to Border and North West.
The Sidmouth Folk Festival in Devon is another event steeped in tradition, having run for over 60 years. This festival showcases a diverse range of music and dance styles, including morris, making it a must-visit for any folk enthusiast.
Morris Dancing Today – A Living Tradition
Morris dancing, despite its centuries-old roots, is not a relic of the past. It is a living and ever-evolving tradition, with new dances being created and old ones being adapted over time. Today, women and mixed sides are becoming increasingly common, reflecting the evolving attitudes towards gender roles in this tradition.
In addition to the traditional dances, some sides are experimenting with new forms and styles. Some have incorporated elements of other dance traditions, while others have created entirely new dances. This innovation ensures that morris dancing remains a vibrant and dynamic part of English culture.
Observing and experiencing morris dancing is an immersion into the very heart of English tradition. It’s a spectacle of colour, music, and movement that reflects the diversity and creativity of the communities that have kept this tradition alive for centuries. Whether you’re exploring the charming Cotswolds villages or attending a lively festival, there is no shortage of opportunities to witness this unique form of English folk dance.
Role of Cecil Sharp in Reviving Morris Dancing
Cecil Sharp, a noted English folklorist and musicologist, played a significant role in the revival of morris dancing in the early 20th century. Sharp first came across morris dancing in 1899 during a Christmas performance by the Headington Quarry Morris Men in Oxfordshire. Captivated by the lively spectacle, Sharp undertook the mission to preserve this fading art form.
Sharp devoted years to documenting scores of morris dances, collecting tunes, and interviewing dancers. He travelled across the English countryside, tracing the regional variations in the dance style. He published several books, including "The Morris Book" and "The Sword Dances of Northern England", which serve as essential manuals for morris dancers today.
Sharp also founded the English Folk Dance and Song Society in 1911, which helped foster a renewed interest in English folk traditions. The society headquarters, Cecil Sharp House, located in London, remains a hub for folk dance and music enthusiasts. The society regularly organises workshops, performances, and festivals, providing a platform for morris dancers to showcase their skills.
Thanks to Sharp’s tireless efforts, morris dancing witnessed a revival and continues to be an important part of English folk culture. It’s worth attending a performance at the Cecil Sharp House if you wish to experience the charm of this vibrant tradition.
The Morris Ring – Preserving the Tradition
The Morris Ring, established in 1934, is a national association for men’s morris sides. It was formed with the primary aim of preserving the ancient tradition of morris dancing and to encourage its performance. Today, the ring comprises over 180 sides across England and beyond, each preserving the traditions of their respective regions.
The ring organises regular events, including ‘ring meetings’, where member sides gather to dance and share their unique styles. These meetings provide an excellent opportunity to witness the diversity of morris dancing styles in one place. The ring also hosts annual instructions and workshops to encourage new dancers and to uphold the standards of performance.
The Morris Ring plays a crucial role in the conservation and promotion of morris dancing. It stands as a testament to the enduring charm of this tradition, and a symbol of the unity and camaraderie shared by morris dancers.
Morris dancing, with its colourful costumes, lively music, and rhythmic movements, is an enthralling spectacle. It is an important part of the English heritage, deeply entwined with the country’s history and culture. Through the efforts of individuals like Cecil Sharp and organisations like the Morris Ring, this tradition continues to captivate audiences and dancers alike.
Whether performed in the charming villages of the Cotswolds, the border regions of England and Wales, or the industrial towns of the North West, each dance style reflects the unique character of its region. From the colourful spring festivals to the winter celebrations, morris dancing brings communities together in a celebration of life, music, and movement.
Experiencing a morris dance performance, either at a festival or in a tranquil countryside setting, is a delightful way to immerse oneself in English culture. So, why not take the plunge? Come, witness, and be part of the dynamic, rhythmic, and joyful world of morris dancing!
