Morris Dancing

The origins of the tradition are lost in ancient time, but we know the dance is quite old, possibly derived from pre-Christian rites, passed down from generation to generation. In the English village of Bampton in Oxfordshire, the Morris has been performed at Whitsuntide every year (except in time of war) for well over five hundred years.

No one really seems to know why it's called Morris, how old the tradition is, where it originated, whether Druids were ever involved, or if it really promotes fertility. But we do know it's old enough to have been banned by Cromwell, and that Shakespeare mentioned the dance in several of his works; one of his star actors, Will Kemp, was a known to be a "Morrice Dauncer."

Traditionally, Morris dance was performed exclusively by men (except when women danced, too). Nowadays, it is done by groups ("teams" or "sides") of men and/or women all over the English-speaking world. It's a living tradition that evolves and grows over time. Enthusiasts are attracted to the dance by the challenge of athletic performance, and to honor its roots as a community celebration.

Tell Me More!

There are many other Morris teams in the San Francisco area, and around the world. If you live in the Bay area, come see us!   If outside the Bay Area, check out the other Morris sides around the world.