Mummers Plays by West Hill Morris

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Hold the mouse pointer over each sketch to see the name of the character in the play



Every year, in December, and on New Year's Day, the lads and lasses of West Hill Morris perform their traditional Mummers play.

Mummers or Mummering dates back centuries and was originally performed by the poor folk of Kent to their Masters and Lords up at the great hall.

The Characters in the play are traditional. The Turkish Knight, who represents evil, is challenged by King George, who is the goodie. They fight and the Turk falls to the ground, mortally wounded. The Doctor is summoned and revives the Turk, who immediately continues his sword fight with George, they are interrupted by the Green Man, the force of nature, and are then joined by Beezlebub, who "over his shoulder he carries a club" ... The play is introduced and ended by the most up to date character, Father Christmas.

This short piece of excellent acting is then followed by a dance, and as in days of yore, a collection. The Kentish Mummers of old would have been given food and ale by their patrons, but today West Hill Morris are collecting for the Ellenor Hospice, who do great work in this area for the terminally ill. So if you have enjoyed our performance, please put your donations in our tea-pot.

On St George's Day, another Mummers Play is performed. The plot is similar, but the Dragon replaces the Turkish Knight, and Florence Nightingale is introduced.

We would like to thank the Landlord & Landlady of the Chequers for allowing us to perform here today.

Why not start the New Year with some exercise and join us Morris dancing throughout Kent in 2005, or if you are a musician, join our band. Contact Greg on 020 8777 1586 or Allan on 01322 224793, or Email us at squire@westhillmorris.org.uk

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