The Wantage Mummers: Every year the same – but different

For forty years the Wantage Mummers have been performing a Berkshire version of the mummers play. In that time there has been no alteration to the traditional words or to the traditional course of action. However, each year the performance is refreshed by changing bits of business, aspects of costume or properties and special effects, thereby introducing something new, usually of a topical nature. The presentation will illustrate this way of upholding a tradition whilst simultaneously providing something new each year. It will also discuss the effect that this approach, and the decision to only perform on one day, has on the performers and on the audience.