Morris: A Life with Bells On
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Morris: A Life with Bells On is a 2009 British independent film, a comic spoof documentary about morris dancing.
Original film poster
Morris dance
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Morris dancing is a form of English folk dance. It is based on rhythmic stepping and the execution of choreographed figures by a group of dancers in costume, usually wearing bell pads on their shins and/or shoes. A band or single musician, also costumed, will accompany them. Sticks, swords, handkerchiefs, and a variety of other implements may be wielded by the dancers.
Morris dancers with handkerchiefs in York
One of Erasmus Grasser's small Moriskentänzer statues from 1480, showing what would have been termed a "moorish" dancer, where the other nine surviving carvings are fairer-skinned. All wear bells on their legs.
Illustration of William Kempe Morris dancing from London to Norwich in 1600
Morris dancers and a hobby horse: detail of Thames at Richmond, with the Old Royal Palace, c. 1620