Beggars' Oak clog are based in Armitage in Staffordshire and we dance traditional dances from the North West of England, always accompanied by live music. In spring and summer, we can be found at fetes, well-dressings, and other local events. Bright green dresses and the band (melodeons, drums, guitar, whistle and others) ensure we rarely go unnoticed!
For more about the places we have danced, future appearances, or if you are interested in booking Beggars' Oak, please see the
forum pagesThe side celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2008. Some members have been with the side ever since and our newest member joined just a few months ago. We meet every Monday, and prospective dancers or musicians are always welcome to come along and have a go. Throughout October 2008 we will be holding open evenings where visitors and prospective members can come and meet us and see what we do. For details, please follow this link or contact us.
North West morris is characterised by brightly coloured costume, live music, a steady drum beat, oh yes, and clogs. As you might guess from the name, it has its origins in the mill towns of North West England, although you can find sides (groups of dancers and musicians) throughout the country and further afield. Clogs, long lasting and practical, were worn by mill workers, both men and women, and the paved streets of the developing towns were ideal for dancing.
The earliest dances were processional, and each area had its own dance. North West morris is very much a living tradition with some dances based on the old ones, some heavily adapted and new ones developed.