Morris men play a part in war drama

Saddleworth morris men are preparing to celebrate the group’s 40th anniversary

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COLOURFUL dances by the Saddleworth Morris Men have become the inspiration for a new play opening this week.

“An August Bank Holiday Lark” by former Coronation Street actress Debbie McAndrew, commemorates the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War.

Commissioned by Barrie Rutter at Northern Broadsides Theatre Company, the production is set around an East Lancashire village rushcart at a 1914 Wakes Weekend and captures the effects of war on lifestyles and traditions.

As part of their aim to portray the true spirit of the morris celebrations, the play’s choreographer, Conrad Nelson, has joined the morris men at practice sessions.

Morris man Ed Worrall, who joined the side 14 years ago, said: “One of our traditional dances is included in the play, along with a full-sized rushcart. It’s fantastic our heritage will be put up on stage and woven into the play.”

Playwright Debbie McAndrew said: “The Saddleworth Morris Men have been fantastic the way they embraced the idea and helped Conrad and myself with our research.

“It’s difficult to find anything new to say about World War One, but it is possible to bring something into focus that is often overlooked.”

The play opens on Friday in Newcastle-under-Lyme, and its final date is at the Coliseum in June.

Saddleworth Morris Men are gearing up for their biggest rushcart festival to date: the dancers will be joined by 25 sides to turn their annual event into an anniversary special over August bank holiday weekend.