Ancient Festival of Abram, called the Morris Dance – summary

Summary of Peter Bearon’s Talk on “The Ancient Festival of Abram, called the Morris Dance”

Peter Bearon’s talk, hosted by the Morris Federation, delved into the unique history and features of the Abram Morris Dance. Bearon began by addressing the distinctiveness of the dance, which differs from other Morris dancing styles across Lancashire. Revived in 1984 by Jeff Hughes, this tradition is now celebrated annually on the last Saturday of June on the Morris Dancers’ Ground in Abram, Lancashire.

The Abram Morris Dance is performed in a circle with a maypole at the centre, accompanied by a king, queen, clowns, and a decorative garland. Bearon traced the history of the dance to the late 18th century, citing its sporadic performances in 1794, 1814, 1832, and 1850. A significant account from the Wigan Times in 1850 described the intricate garland adorned with watches, spoons, ribbons, and a silver goblet, alongside the dance’s celebratory atmosphere. Performances were again given in 1880 and 1901 but then lapsed until its revival in 1984.

The talk highlighted research by Maud Karpeles, who published a detailed description of the dance in 1932, based on interviews with Richard Porter and Adam Ingram, the latter a key figure in its 1901 revival. Karpeles documented the music, costumes, and choreography, and described the Morris Dancers’ Ground, historically believed to have been granted to the community on the condition it was danced upon every 21 years. Bearon investigated this claim, tracing the land’s ownership to the Chadwick family from at least 1700, but found no concrete evidence supporting the stipulation.

Costumes traditionally included white vests, blue sashes, and handkerchiefs. The performers, often young local men, danced to music played by concertina bands or other musicians. Over time, the dance gained broader recognition, featuring in English Folk Dance and Song Society events and Royal Albert Hall festivals.

Bearon also explored the garland’s significance, theorising that its evergreen variant mentioned in earlier accounts could be the “bush” referenced by Porter. He invited modern participants to recreate this feature to enhance the annual performance.

The Morris Dancers’ Ground, now registered as common land, was restored in 2003 after decades of neglect. Bearon praised the efforts of local authorities and volunteers who raised funds and provided labour for the restoration, ensuring the preservation of this cultural site.

The talk concluded with a recording of the dance and an open invitation for new dancers and musicians to join the Abram Morris Dancers. A workshop is scheduled for May, offering an opportunity to learn the dance in preparation for this year’s celebration, which will commemorate the 40th anniversary of the tradition’s revival.

Bearon’s engaging presentation underscored the cultural and historical significance of the Abram Morris Dance, its unique traditions, and the enduring efforts to keep it alive for future generations.