"And let those that play your clowns say no more than is set down" - advice that Will Kemp may have done well to follow!
In 1600 Will Kemp, the most famous comic and clown of his generation and Will Shakespeare, most famous playwright in history, fell out in an argument over a play. Shakespeare stayed in London, writing for The Lord Chamberlain's Men and producing the plays still renowned the world over. Kemp embarked on a bizarre PR stunt, Morris dancing from London to Norwich.
The issue of 'blacking up' as hit the press a couple of times over the festive period. If you go a guising in any form please make sure you are familiar with the Morris Ring notes on the subject .
Hopefully they will make your lives easier if you are challenged
We are very happy to continue to support this excellent documentary film. 'ALL MY LIFE'S BURIED HERE - The Story of George Butterworth' is being released on DVD and being launched at The Depot, Lewes Saturday 23rd November, 12.30pm.
All you need know about Membership of the Morris Ring.
Note: A discount in all membership types of £10 is in future applicable if paid by bank transfer. This reflects the now ease of electronic transfer and the additional inconvenience of cheque payments
The 2020 Jigs Instructional is now fully subscribed, but applications are still being accepted for inclusion on the reserve list. Please send no money until otherwise directed. Thank you.
This year's Unconvention will be based at the Pinewood Scout Centre, Croydon, CR0 5AJ and will involve Bladder workshop for Fools, Show-and-Tell for Beasts, Set integration for all!
Saturday tour along the South Bank, getting into London via public transport. Plus the Feast - at this stage probably in the Scout centre by outside caterers.
Some people just want to attend the Saturday tour, those of you who just want to do that, please let me know if you want lunch at the White Hart, @ £8 per head (nominal - I have still yet to negotiate proper price).
Enjoy Rob Elliott's Fool and his Dancers? I did and as a Fool I was happy to help get his next project relaunched ...
Anyone who has read The Fool and his Dancers might have noticed the bit about why a sequel is not needed, but never trust a writer, that’s what they say!
We are pleased to add this 'missing' page of types of morris dancing which has been contributed by Dr Lucy Wright, whose excellent credentials are clearly set out in the 'Other Resources' appendix.
A revised version of the the edition published on 3rd May now including a review of Discordant Comicals - The Hooden Horses of East Kent and some revisions to Mumming in Europe. Enjoy.
Recent media coverage relating to 'gender bias' and Morris dancing
Although the Morris Ring’s constitutional change came into effect in March 2018, there have been several recent examples of national media focusing on this without the necessary context we feel it requires to be fully balanced.