Centuries-Old Boxing Day Tradition in Dorset Faces Extinction
A beloved Dorset tradition, the annual performance of the Purbeck Mummers, is on the brink of collapse due to dwindling membership. For years,the group has brought festive cheer to pubs in Corfe Castle and Worth Matravers on Boxing Day,but now struggles to fill the roles required for their historic play.
The Purbeck Mummers, established in 2013, revived a tradition dating back centuries, performing a play that embodies the spirit of community and charitable giving. Now, the future of this cultural heritage hangs in the balance as they urgently seek new players to prevent the potential loss of this cultural heritage.
“Over the years our members have got older and are not as mobile, with various aches and ailments,” explained a leader of the purbeck Mummers, known as the Mother. “The play has a number of fight scenes, so people have to be fit enough to take a little bit of a bashing. There are eight characters in the play, only two of which don’t get involved in combat – and although itS all fun we can’t put anyone who is too old or frail into those roles.”
The group currently faces a critical shortage, with a key performer, Old Father Abraham, already confirmed to be unavailable for the customary Boxing Day performance on Friday, December 26th, 2025. This absence underscores the precarious situation, as even a single illness or holiday can jeopardize the entire performance.
The Mummers rehearse at the Kings Arms in Wareham, but recruitment efforts have yielded limited success. They are specifically seeking individuals in their late 50s or early 60s who are reasonably fit, enjoy socializing, and are willing to participate in mock sword fights – all while raising money for local charities.
Traditionally, the Mummers perform throughout December, culminating in wassails at cider orchards, typically held in January. Their blessing of the Purbeck Cider apple orchards in recent years has reportedly coincided with a bumper crop, leading some to jokingly attribute the success to the Mummers’ performance.
Beyond the festive entertainment, the Purbeck Mummers play a vital role in supporting the community. In 2024, they raised over £400 for the Lexi May Trust, which provides support to Dorset children with terminal or life-limiting illnesses, and £150 for local Christmas lights. in previous years, fundraising efforts have exceeded £1,000 during a single season.
the tradition of mumming itself has a long and complex history. Dating back to at least 1296,performances were once a staple of courtly festivities. However, the practice faced periods of suppression, with laws passed in 1418 and by King Henry VIII aimed at curbing “disguisings” due to fears of criminal activity. Despite these challenges, the tradition persevered, evolving into the forms we see today.
The Purbeck Mummers’ play features a cast of colorful characters,including King George,Mr. Holly, Beau Roamer, Beau slasher, the Turkish knight, Trim Tram, and a quack Doctor. The narrative typically revolves around a battle between good and evil, culminating in a request for donations to charity.
Sue Wheatley, the group’s first female mummer, highlighted the inclusive nature of the tradition. “The play we are using originated in lulworth – there are loads of different mummers’ plays, but they are all basically a tale of good against evil and feature Saint George or King George as the hero,” she said.”I became the first woman in the Purbeck Mummers last year, playing Beau Slasher, and it is great fun – so I can definitely say that being a part of this wonderful tradition is open to all.”
The group is scheduled to perform at six pubs in Wareham on Sunday, December 7th, 2025, coinciding with the town’s Christmas parade, to raise funds for the Christmas lights appeal. They will continue to support the Lexi May Trust throughout the remainder of the season.
Anyone interested in joining the Purbeck Mummers is encouraged to contact them via email at [email protected] or through their Facebook page. The group meets for rehearsals at The Kings Arms in North Street, Wareham, during the autumn and winter months. the fate of this cherished Dorset tradition rests on the willingness of local residents to step forward and ensure its survival for generations to come.
