Mummers' play

Mummers' play is a form of folk play performed by groups of amateur actors, traditionally all male, known as mummers or guisers (rhymes with disguisers). It is a custom that is particularly associated with the British Isles, but variants are also found in other countries, such as Ireland, Canada, and United States. The play is often associated with Christmas, New Year, and Plough Monday as well as other seasonal celebrations.

Origins and history

The origins of mummers' plays are obscure, but they are thought to be rooted in ancient pagan rituals. Some theories suggest that the plays, with their themes of death and rebirth, are linked to seasonal cycles and agricultural practices. The earliest recorded mummers' play text dates from the early 18th century, although the tradition itself is undoubtedly much older.

Performance

A typical mummers' play involves a series of characters entering in turn and engaging in dialogue or combat with the other characters. Common characters include Saint George, the Turkish Knight, and the Doctor. The plays often conclude with a character being "killed" and then magically restored to life by the Doctor, symbolizing death and rebirth.

The performances are typically processional, moving from house to house or pub to pub, asking for food, drink, or money in exchange for the entertainment provided. The costumes and masks worn by the mummers are often elaborate and designed to conceal the performers' identities, adding an element of mystery to the proceedings.

Cultural significance

Mummers' plays are an important part of folk tradition and are seen as a living link to the past. They are a vibrant expression of community identity and provide insight into local customs, beliefs, and social structures. The plays also serve as a reminder of the changing seasons and the cycle of life.

Modern revivals

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in mummers' plays, with new groups forming and traditional groups reviving dormant practices. This revival is often part of a broader interest in folklore, heritage, and cultural identity. Modern performances may adapt the traditional scripts to reflect contemporary issues or sensibilities, but the core elements of the plays remain largely unchanged.

See also

• Morris dance
• Folklore of the United Kingdom
• Seasonal festivals

External links

• The Traditional Drama Research Group - A resource for the study of folk plays

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