Mummers

Mummers are performers, often in disguise, who engage in traditional folk plays and processions, particularly around holidays like Christmas and New Year's. These traditions are most strongly associated with the British Isles, especially England, Ireland, and Scotland, and have spread to other parts of the world through migration. Mummers' plays typically involve a series of characters, often including a hero, a villain, and a doctor or other figure who brings the hero back to life. The narratives are usually simple, featuring themes of good versus evil and death and resurrection.

The costumes worn by mummers are a distinctive feature. They are often elaborate and homemade, designed to conceal the performer's identity. Masks are common, and the overall effect can be quite fantastical or grotesque. The performance itself can involve acting, singing, dancing, and reciting rhymes or verses. While the specific plays and customs vary from region to region, the core elements of disguise, performance, and festive celebration remain consistent.

The origins of mummers and their plays are somewhat obscure but are thought to be linked to ancient pagan rituals, medieval folk dramas, and early forms of theater. The tradition has seen periods of decline and revival over the centuries, with modern mummers' groups working to preserve and adapt these cultural practices for contemporary audiences. These performances are often community-based, bringing people together for a shared experience of local heritage and entertainment.