Morris sides on the Island wanted to take part in the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival and were not sure where to perform.

They then realised that the New Carnival Company’s Mardi Gras Procession had a Folktastic theme.

This was the ideal opportunity for the Morris dancers to support both the NCC and the Biosphere Festival.

The sides will meet outside the Old empty Nat West Bank building in Ryde and dance there to entertain the crowds prior to the procession before it goes by and if possible to do some more dancing after. There will of course be some joining in dances for the public to take part in and try Morris dancing!

Sides taking part: Mr Baker’s Dozen, Moonshine Border Morris and the Oyster Girls

Mr Baker’s Dozen is a mixed Morris side that dances traditional Morris dances, Playford dances and some of their own composure. They also perform a traditional Mummy play and like to sing the odd song or two. Costume Green Raggy jackets

Moonshine Border Morris are a mixed side that perform Border Morris dances from the borders of England and Wales they perform traditional and new Border style dances Costume Colours Black Purple Blue and Green Painted faces and own choice outfits

Oyster Girls Are an all Ladies side who dance Northwest dances. They dance in wooden souled Clogs. They have a bass drum beating out the rhythm when they dance. They also use decorated hoops in some dances. Costume they wear green dresses with Gold and Red trimming on them and green clogs on their feet.

No booking required

Saturday 5thJuly - Outside the Old Nat West building next to the Crown Hotel Ryde start dancing at 14:30 -prior to the Mardi Gras Procession