Crook Morris Mummers Play 17th January 2009

17th January 2009. First performance of Crook Morris Mummers Play as part of the Wassail celebrations at the Hare & Hounds, Bowland Bridge. The Mummers Play is a folk play popular throughout the whole of England in various forms. The word Mummer possibly came from the Greek word "Mommo", meaning a mask, the wearing of which became popular at royal functions in the fourteenth century, the practice of such being termed as "Momerie". Traditionally the performance itself begins with an introduction, usually by Father Christmas, who also clears space in the venue for the play to be performed. The play then moves onto a hero combat with two combatants who differ from play to play, such as St. (or King) George, A Turk, a soldier, a dragon and various ruffians. Much boasting of martial prowess by the combatants occurs before and after the fight. The person who is killed is always brought back to life by a quack doctor who first boasts of his skill in medicine. The play ends with a plea for money from the audience and then usually a song or Mummers carol.

Category:

Entertainment

[execelsior]

I was part of a Mummers Play when I was at school and played Father Christmas. We had great fun with it - mind you, we were very young at the time and our 'lines' were few and never came out the same way twice!!! But we enjoyed doing it. Dare I say that ours was similar to yours but I am sure, not as well 'produced'. I hope that you all continue to produce the play yearly.