Straw Bear – 40 Years of Straw & String – summary

Brian Kell‘s talk, Straw Bear – 40 Years of Straw & String, organised by the Morris Federation on 12 December 2021, reflected on the revival and evolution of the Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival. The festival, originally documented in the 19th century and believed to have ceased in the early 20th century, was revived by Kell in 1980. His account mixed personal anecdotes, historical observations, and insights into the practicalities of running the event.

Kell emphasised the festival’s roots in rural customs, drawing parallels with similar traditions in Germany, Shetland, and Ireland. He explored the significance of straw as a costume material, attributing its use to its historical abundance and practicality. The festival’s primary figure, the Straw Bear, is constructed using a specially designed framework, allowing it to dance—something unique to Whittlesea’s bear.

The early years of the revived festival featured contributions from local and national Morris and Molly dance teams, reflecting Kell’s goal of showcasing the breadth of British traditional dance. Teams such as Northampton Morris Men, Stevenage Sword Dancers, and Maple Molly Dancers became regular participants, alongside schoolchildren who have provided dancers every year since 1980. Kell highlighted the festival’s role in introducing folk traditions to a previously “folk desert” community.

Kell also detailed international connections, including links with German towns where similar straw-based traditions exist. German Straw Bears, typically more aggressive in their performances, differ in construction and purpose but share themes of mid-winter festivity. These cultural exchanges broadened the festival’s scope while affirming its place in a wider European tradition.

Over four decades, the festival expanded significantly, becoming a cornerstone of Whittlesea’s identity. The event now attracts large crowds, with vibrant processions, a variety of dance styles, and an atmosphere of inclusivity. In recognition of the festival’s impact, the town has incorporated Straw Bear imagery into public art and architecture, further cementing its significance.

Kell candidly addressed the challenges of organising the event, from navigating public health and safety regulations to adapting traditions to modern contexts. He dispelled myths of pagan origins, framing the bonfire that concludes the festival as a practical, symbolic ending rather than a ritual act.

Audience questions prompted discussions about the festival’s origins and its connections to European and Nordic traditions. While definitive answers were elusive, Kell emphasised the value of the event as a celebration rather than an academic exercise. Other questions explored the festival’s community impact, which Kell described as fostering pride, participation, and an appreciation for folk traditions.

Concluding his talk, Kell reflected on the familial continuity within the Straw Bear tradition and expressed hope for its future. His efforts were celebrated not only as a revival of a historic custom but as a meaningful contribution to cultural heritage, recognised with the British Empire Medal in 2013. The talk ended with gratitude from attendees and an appeal to support local charities associated with the festival.