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Morris dancing is a form of English folk dance. It is based on rhythmic stepping and the execution of choreographed figures by a group of dancers in costume, usually wearing bell pads on their shins and/or shoes. A band or single musician, also costumed, will accompany them. Sticks, swords, handkerchiefs, and a variety of other implements may be wielded by the dancers.
Morris dancing first appeared in England in the 15th century. Its earliest surviving mention dates to 1448 and records the payment of seven shillings to Morris dancers by the Goldsmiths’ Company in London. The term “Morris” comes from a Flemish form of “Moorish”, although Morris dancing has no known historical connection to the Moors.
Three prominent groups organise and support Morris in England: Morris Ring, Morris Federation and Open Morris all three organisations have members from other countries as well.
With 400 years of history behind them, Brackley Morris Men are listed on the Morris Ring as one of the only 8 remaining “traditional” Cotswold Morris sides in England and are the only one in Northamptonshire. They are certainly a valued part of our county’s heritage.
Easily recognised by their white shirts and trousers, each man selects their own colours for baldrics (the coloured straps across their chest) and rosettes, a practice which dates back to the time when the men would tour from Brackley and pick up dancers from local villages.
Their annual outings are on May Day, St. George’s Day, Boxing Day and over the August Bank Holidays weekend. They also perform at fetes and other social events throughout the year.
They are always happy to welcome new members ad their practice sessions are open to anyone if you fancy feeling a bit of rhythm, working up a sweat and quenching your thirst with a pint. They meet every Thursday evening 8:00pm in the Town Hall, Brackley NN13 7DS.
The Brackley Community Museum Morris Men display will be in the library until mid May and it will then be replaced by a World War I and II exhibition.
