Morris Dancing Information

Conservative estimates put the origins of Morris dancing in England at approximately 600 years old although the ritualistic essence of the dance share common traits with similar ceremonies across the globe.  Initially involving only men, there now are an increasing number of women only and mixed sides.

The Morris clubs today meet regularly for practice and give public shows.  A side will usually have a Squire or Captain, a bagman or Secretary and often a foreman to teach the dances.  Each side is unique in their costume, derived from traditional forms, usually with a symbol or a badge denting their territorial association.

Styles Of Dance

Sides will also differ in the style of dance, perhaps the best known being Cotswold Morris, consisting of 6 dancers and a musician.  These sides are now iconic being instantly recognisable in their white clothing and bells, with their handkerchief and stick dances.  The trademark peculiar to their region will be in the detail of their waistcoats.  Variations in the Cotswold style can be found in regions around the Midlands and Derbyshire.

Sword dances, originating in the North East of England, are still performed by sides of 6-8 men.  The swords made of steel or wood, are woven into a star-shape by the end of the dance.  Their costume differs from those worn by the Cotswold dancers and bells are not worn.  Variations of the sword dance involve more flexible swords with handles at each end.  In this case, the swords are held above the head while they dance at high speed.  The costume consists of dark breeches and white shirts although rosettes will sometimes be worn.

The North West Morris is danced by a team of at least 9 men and undertaken in a processional manner with much stepping.  They wear colourful costumes but fewer bells, as the emphasis is more on footwork therefore clogs are worn to accentuate this.

Border dancing is said to be an older variant of the Morris.  Danced by sides of 4, 6 or 8 men who black their faces and wear rags or dark clothes.  The dance is very vigorous but simple, with much clashing of sticks!

Sides have their own musicians with Cotswold and Sword dances usually accompanied by a solo artiste. Border and North West often have their own band.  Instruments include the fiddle, concertina and accordion and in the North West variants in particular almost always involve a bass drum and a side drum.

The tradition of Mummers is included under the scope of Morris.  Players perform an ancient story, usually involving death and resurrection.  In this way, they often explore the heritage of St George and other folklore heroes.

Many sides keep the tradition of having a Fool, Tommy, Betsy, Animal or Beast - to bring another aspect to the dance, be it joy, comedy or terror!

There are 3 recognised Morris organisations in the UK; the Morris Ring - which has 260 members; the Morris foundation - originally known as the Women's Morris Federation; and the Open Morris.