Think of Morris Dancing and you might conjure up images of choreographed dancing, folky outfits, bells and even swords – but perhaps not a methodist church in the middle of Salford.
Morris dancing still happens all over the country and one particular group may be just around the corner from you. Pendleton Platinums is a non-profit Morris dancing group which runs every Tuesday night at the Height Methodist Church on King Street, keeping the British folk tradition going strong in Salford.
The group was founded in 2012 by Vikki Baglin and Patricia Naylor who have danced their whole lives. Vikki lives in Salford which is why the group popped up here. She said: “Morris dancing is an amazing sport not really recognised like others but the dancing community knows how special it is.”
Morris dancing is the traditional form of English folk dance, dating back hundreds of years and traditionally known as a male dominated dance which involved swords and handkerchiefs. However, recent years have shown the dance to be enjoyed by all genders with a few differences.
Alisha Woodhouse, 24, is one of the dance teachers at Pendleton Platinums. Starting her dance journey from the early age of one year old, she developed a great love for Morris dancing. She said: “For me, dance has always been a constant in my life, if I’m stressed or upset it’s my outlet and something to concentrate on.
“I’ve also met people through dance that I know will be in my life forever, so it’s so much more than just dance to me and so many others.”
None of the trainers get paid for the time they put into teaching the girls but watching them learn new skills, make friends and fall in love with dance is enough reward. All the money raised goes back into the troupe, whether it be for new dresses, shakers, medals, trophies or presentation nights.
“It’s important that we use the funds to allow the troupe to continue”, Alisha commented. “They perform in competitions all over Manchester and the championships take them to Wales. There are other troupes around the North-West who they compete against.”
A lot of people do the sport as it’s a cheaper alternative and more accessible to families than expensive hobbies such as Irish dancing.
Alisha explained: “I’ve done the hobby all of my life so it’s just part of me now, I couldn’t imagine my life without it, it’s a common theme that many of the people who take up this hobby have such intense feelings towards it.”
11-year-old Ava has been a part of the group for three years, she said: “Morris dancing is my favourite hobby, it’s very friendly and I love everyone there.”
Mollie, who has been dancing at Pendleton Platinums for five/six years, said: “I love dancing it’s a really good hobby, it keeps me fit and healthy. In the dancing world, this is my dancing family.”
Jolene, Mollie’s mum, added: “I absolutely love being part of the Pendleton Platinums family. I love watching them dance and watch their progress every week.”
The group has about 30 members, ranging from ages 4-40 and they are currently recruiting for the 2024 season. Old and new dancers are welcome to join.
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