Morris dancers condemned for being outrageous are merrily celebrating their team’s 30th birthday.
Hurst Morris People are inviting everyone to their birthday barn dance on Saturday March 2, at Hurst Village Hall.
Tim and Christine Taylor, still living in Hurst, caused outrage when they started the team, known as HuMP, in February 1989.
The public was invited to “Come HuMPing every Thursday night”.
Tim, now 60 and a science teacher at Willow House School, Wokingham, said: “We decided to start a mixed team so we could dance together.
“There were few mixed teams: the tradition for years was that men and women did not dance together.
“We wanted to create something new and open in its outlook. All this was considered quite outrageous. We were criticised for starting a mixed team. Despite the opposition we went ahead.”
Christine said: “We wanted to take all comers, to be very inclusive, taking everyone up to a standard for dancing out in public.”
The side, started with seven members, now has 24. Christine, still a HuMP member, added: “Thirty years on the side is flourishing with new people joining each year.”
HuMP’s first dance outs were at the Elephant and Castle pub, Hurst, and at The Colleton School, Twyford. They perform at pubs, schools, fetes, folk festivals and at private events. Their Cotswold-tradition dancing is active and springy and includes sticks and hankies.
Squire Karen Ricketts said: “We’re delighted to be carrying on HuMP’s great tradition and welcome everyone to help us celebrate at the barn dance and our Maypole and Morris Day in April.”
The barn dance on Saturday March 2 at Hurst Village Hall, RG10 0DR, is at 7.15pm for 7.30pm start. Music is by Chris, Patsy and Friends and Howard Ballard is the caller.
Guests are asked to bring a plate of finger food to share and your own drink. Tea, coffee and soft drinks are provided. Tickets at £7.50 (under 12s are free) are by emailing [email protected]
HuMP’s Maypole and Morris Day is on Sunday April 28 from noon at Hurst Village Hall. There will be dances to watch and join in with. Bring a picnic.
Tea, coffee and light refreshments will be on sale. Entrance is free.
For more, log on to HuMP’s website www.hump.org.uk
