Erstwhile Border Morris
Former traditions adapting to the times.
Erstwhile. Meaning 'from a former time'. It comes from the Old English words aer, meaning 'early', and hwil, meaning 'while' or 'period of time'.
We strive to reignite the dancing of a former time. We aim to celebrate the roots of dance.
We are a fun and welcoming mixed side and we welcome anyone who enjoys celebrating ancient traditions and making firm friends; regardless of age, ethnicity, ability or gender. As a side we promote and stand for inclusivity in all forms.
We practise every couple weeks and dance out regularly throughout the year!
Upcoming events
Spring equinox celebration at Ledbury (with Ragged Stone Morris) - 23rd March
Witchcraft wonder at May Hill - 27th April
Upton Folk Festival - 3rd - 5th May
Bradford upon Avon Festival - 11th May
Feckenham May Event - 27th May
Lassington Oak Day of Dance 21st June
Skulkfest Ludlow - 13th July
Feckenham fun on the Green - 28th July
Feckenham Scarecrows - 5th October
Ragged Bear Festival - 26th October
'For a different feel, Erstwhile Border Morris showed us that dance doesn't have to be handkerchiefs and bells. Big sticks and lots of intricate choreography marked them out as something out of the ordinary and very exciting.' @FATEA
'I was delighted to see the return of Erstwhile Border Morris - who most definitely form a significant part of the more fashionable elements of Morris dancing. There's no hanky waving or tinnitus inducing bell-pads here... But a plethora of big sticks, rag jackets, Doc Martens and high energy movements which quite frankly looked more exhausting than a HIIT session at your local gym, but was definitely more entertaining.' @atthebarrier
Moon Jera - our first Morris Beast
'Jera' is the Old English name for the rune that represents the harvest and cycles of nature.
This soothing soul symbolises the cycle of the seasons and the inflow and outflow of the lands rhythms. She also represents the rhythms of sleep, night and day, the heartbeat, the breath and the dance 🦋
See if you can catch a glimpse of her at our next dance out!
Ragged Bear Festival fun 🦋
Cathryn - Erstwhile Squire
Morris history is not always clear, but some think clashing together sticks (same as hankies and bells) where used to ward off evil spirits 🌚 they certainly help us bring the energy!
We love our fabulous musicians! Jon is our lead musician and has been with us since the beginning.
In a past of harsh winters, struggling labourers would dance and busk for their supper, even travelling to other villages and towns to get by. Shrouded faces and ragged jackets would disguise the wearer from recognition should the noisy mayhem and begging lead to some local 'misunderstandings'!
Get in Touch
If you're interested in joining us, have any questions about what we do or would like to enquire about booking us for an event, please get in touch - we would love to hear from you!
Feckenham Village Hall, High Street, Feckenham B96 6HN
07487617900