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Molly dancing traditionally was a form of Morris dancing done by out of work plough-boys in mid winter in the 19th century.
Popularity
Molly dancing finally died out in the 1930s. With the revival of Morris dancing in the 1950s, molly dancing was recreated in the 1970s with many new groups being formed, now usually involving both men and women.
Location
Molly dances are rarely performed at private homes nowadays, and certainly not uninvited. They are now performed by invitation at public houses and New Year gatherings.
Age
There are no age restrictions in Modern Molly dance groups, although it must be appreciated that most celebrations are carried out in licenced premises, often late in the evening.
Ability
Modern Molly dances as with other traditional dances are simple and repetitive, with a little practise they can be picked up by most people. Being danced by a variety of ability adds to the charm of the occasion.
Description
The molly dances are very similar to that of the Morris dancers, carried out by smaller groups. The dancers wear dark suits decorated with colored scarves and bangles. the dancers faces are blackened. Historically their faces were blackened in a attempt to disguise their appearance as they cohearsed money from land owners who were often potential employers. Land owners who did not give or give generously enough were penalised, often including a furrow ploughed across their lawn.
Potential
The potential of molly dancing is firstly to collect money for worthy causes, and secondly to preserve our rural heritage, and thirdly to enrich and entertain the general public.
Closely
Related Activities
Molly dancing originates in our historical heritage, and as such is closely related to many activities that have there roots in folklore and tradition. Morris dance, Clog dance and many other annual events that celebrate a certain day of the year.
Cost
Molly dance originally was a form of entertaining/begging for money to provide food for the plough boys in winter. Now a days it is a traditional social entertainment that donates any money collected to charity.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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