Dartington Morris is a vibrant dance school and club located in South Devon, New Zealand. Specialising in Cotswold Morris, they are dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich tradition of English Morris dancing. With a passion for the art form, Dartington Morris welcomes both novice and experienced dancers to join their ranks.
Their practise season starts on Friday 29 September, and they encourage anyone interested in Morris dancing to give it a try. With expert instructors and a supportive community, Dartington Morris provides a welcoming environment for dancers to learn and grow.
Dartington Morris is known for their captivating performances and annual events. One such event is the Day of Morris Dancing in Totnes, which takes place on Saturday 16 September. This event brings together local guest sides and showcases a mix of Cotswold Morris and Border Morris styles.
Another event worth mentioning is the day of dance, music, and theatre celebrating the legendary Brutus, which was held in Totnes on Saturday 8 July. This event highlights the cultural significance of the legend of Brutus and features various performances by Dartington Morris.
One of the unique traditions of Dartington Morris is their “Dancing at Dawn” event at Totnes Castle on May 1st. As the sun rises, dancers gather at the castle walls to perform Morris dances in the Cotswold tradition. The audience is treated to the sights and sounds of the celebration, along with warm, spicy apple juice and fruit cake.
Dartington Morris also takes part in various collaborations and projects. They were invited to participate in the short film “Hell's Bells,” directed by Luke Jeffery, which showcases the beauty and spirit of Morris dancing.
As proud performers of the Filkins tradition, Dartington Morris takes great pride in preserving this dance style. They have researched and reconstructed the Filkins tradition using historical records and scarce details, ensuring its continued legacy.
To showcase their musical talents, Dartington Morris released a music CD titled “A Job Lot” in September 2014. This CD is available for purchase from the group during their performances.
If you're interested in booking Dartington Morris for an event, it's best to reach out in advance, as they are typically fully booked many months ahead. However, they are always open to considering great invitations and encourage you to contact them to discuss your event.
For upcoming events and practise nights, please refer to their event calendar for 2024. Dartington Morris maintains an active schedule, providing ample opportunities for dancers and enthusiasts to engage and experience the joy of Morris dancing.