Questions - Kern Morris of Durham
ABOUT
Kern Morris have been dancing since 1986 and are based in Durham, England. We have always been a side of mixed gender, age and experience. Each person is a valued member and more are welcome!
ABOUT
Kern Morris have been dancing since 1986 and are based in Durham, England. We have always been a side of mixed gender, age and experience. Each person is a valued member and more are welcome!
Join in
Here we have tried to answer any questions you may have about Kern Morris and Morris dancing. If you have a question which isn't answered here, please contact us and we'll answer it for you.
What is Morris dancing?
Morris dancing is a form of traditional English folk dancing. No one really knows where it came from, but it was performed centuries ago and has been ever since. There are English records mentioning the Morris Dance dating back to 1448 and dances with similar features are mentioned in Renaissance documents in France, Italy and Spain.
What are the sticks/bells/sashes for?
No one can be sure, but it has been suggested that Morris dancing is of Pagan origin, as part of ancient fertility rites, and that the bells, fluttering handkerchiefs, and clashing sticks served as the means to scare away malevolent spirits.
Who can be a member of Kern Morris?
Kern Morris is open to people of all ages and, as a mixed side, accepts both men and women. Kern also has musicians as members who play traditional instruments rather than, or as well as, dancing.
Do I have to pay to be a member of Kern Morris?
We make a small charge for attending practice sessions towards our funds. However, we don't charge anyone who hasn't been before, so you can come along to see if you like it without paying.
What does the contribution pay for?
The money you pay at each practice session pays for the cost of hiring the building where we practice, which is currently Elvet Methodist Church Hall, and refreshments in the middle of the session.
Does Kern get paid for bookings?
Sometimes it does, and sometimes it doesn't. If we do get paid the money might subsidise a future event.
