There will be a wonderful atmosphere around the town, with dance troops made up of Appalachian Clog Dancers, Folk Dancers and Morris Dancers all clattering and jingling their way around the town and round All Saints Churchyard.
Alton Morris
Alton Morris has its origins in Alton Morris Men, who danced as a Cotswold side from 1979 to 1991. In the latter years, membership declined, and it became more and more difficult to get a side out. Rather than fold, it was decided in 1991 to change from an all men’s Cotswold side to a mixed Border side. The first season saw the side dancing Border, with the occasional Cotswold dance by the men, if numbers allowed. However, by the summer of 1993, the side concentrated solely on Border dances.
The first public performance of Alton Morris was in October 1992, when the side performed at a Tree Aid Barn Dance in the Alton Assembly rooms. In the first full season the following year, the side danced at the Wickham May Day celebrations, Wimborne Folk Festival, Oakhanger Bower Decking, the Isle of Wight Festival, plus local pubs and fêtes. Side numbers rapidly increased in the next few years, and have remained around 20-25 dancers and musicians ever since.
Alton Morris is a lively, friendly Border side for both men and women. Between September and April we practise every Friday evening at Kingsley Community Centre. During the summer we dance out at a variety of festivals and local pubs.
Saturday 17th September 2011
11.00am – 6.00pm
All Saints Churchyard
