Dalliance[s] with Dance … Clogs, Bells, Horns and Straw – summary

The talk, “Dalliance[s] with Dance … Clogs, Bells, Horns and Straw!”, presented by Doc Rowe and organised by the Morris Federation on 26 March 2023, offered a rich, personal exploration of traditional dance and folk traditions through Doc’s extensive archive. Reflecting on over six decades of research, documentation, and engagement, Doc shared anecdotes, photographs, and film clips to illustrate the evolution of Morris dancing and related traditions, as well as his personal journey as an archivist and enthusiast.

Key Themes:

1. Early Inspirations:

   • Doc’s fascination with traditional music and dance began in Devon during his youth, influenced by folk programmes on the BBC and his encounters with performers like step-dancer Bob Cam. This early exposure led to an enduring passion for documenting and preserving traditions.

2. Archival Adventures:

   • The talk highlighted Doc’s efforts to collect and preserve cultural heritage, starting with primitive tools like a purple Taiwanese tape recorder. His dedication to documenting traditions extended to acquiring rare photographs, like one of Headington Quarry dancers, and unearthing connections between historic figures such as Darcy Ferris and Morris traditions.

3. Influences and Mentorship:

   • Key figures, including BBC Radio producer Charles Parker, profoundly shaped Doc’s approach to using modern media for documentation. He also credited scholars like Roy Judge and Keith Chandler for their collaboration and insights into folklore.

4. Documenting Traditions:

   • Doc shared visual and narrative documentation of traditions such as the Padstow ‘Obby ‘Oss, Abbots Bromley Horn Dance, and Bampton Morris. He emphasised the social aspect of his work, which involved building relationships within communities and understanding the nuances of evolving practices, like changes in dance styles due to crowd pressures.

5. Significant Projects:

   • Doc curated books, exhibitions, and radio programmes to promote awareness of these traditions. One notable project was the Padstow photo archive, which engaged local communities and younger generations in reconnecting with their heritage through recordings and photographs.

6. Personal Engagement:

   • While primarily an observer and documentarian, Doc occasionally participated in events, including dancing with Abbots Bromley and performing escapology and fire-eating stunts at festivals. He humorously recounted being immortalised in a cartoon for his dedication to chasing down traditions.

7. Cultural Shifts and Challenges:

   • Doc explored how traditions adapt over time, touching on debates about authenticity, inclusivity, and modern interpretations. For instance, he noted controversies over women participating in historically male-dominated dances and the evolving perceptions of blackface in Morris dancing.

8. Future Preservation:

   • A significant current endeavour is returning his Padstow archive to Cornwall, digitising and sharing materials to ensure their accessibility. This initiative aims to connect contemporary audiences with their cultural roots.

Reflections:

Doc’s storytelling blended humour, nostalgia, and a deep reverence for the traditions he’s chronicled. The talk underscored the value of preserving intangible cultural heritage while celebrating its dynamism and adaptability. For attendees, it offered both a vivid glimpse into folk traditions and an appreciation of Doc’s unparalleled contributions as a folklorist and archivist.