Morris Dancing

Today there were Morris dancers all over the Oxford city centre.  The Morris Dance is a type of British folk dance that dates back to the late fifteenth century.  The name “Morris” is actually derived from “Moorish,”  i.e., influenced by the Moors who invaded Spain way back when.

Groups of men and women in folksy costumes assembled in various venues around Oxford and performed their dances.  These groups were from around Oxford.

The dancers performed with sticks, handkerchiefs and bells.  Some wore heavy shoes with wooden soles that made a lot of noise as they clogged on the pavement.  The musical accompaniment for the dancers was provided by drums and concertinas.

One group had their faces painted black.  One of these guys told me that was for a disguise – so I wouldn’t recognize him! 

These folks also wore beads – some of which, I was told, were Mardi Gras beads.  The event really did remind me of Mardi Gras, a bit – although the dancers were only drinking coffee, not alcohol!  Well, it was only 10am in the morning!