Performers Stage Traditional 195-Year-Old Folk Play in Island Streets

Groups of performers are scheduled to present a 195-year-old traditional folk play throughout the island’s streets. The earliest documented instance of “The White Boys” being performed in the Isle of Man dates to 1830, although the tradition is believed to originate from an earlier period. The play’s title comes from the distinctive, hand-crafted costumes worn by participants, which are adorned with various coloured fabric pieces. The performance depicts two knights engaging in a fatal battle, after which one is brought back to life by a doctor. James Franklin of Culture Vannin stated that the tradition centers on “the community having fun,” a concept he believes will “always be relevant to the spirit of Christmas in the island.” “The White Boys” is identified as one of several mummers’ plays, which are traditional folk performances presented in various forms across the British Isles. The narrative performed annually by Manx performers is specific to the island. Mr. Franklin commented, “The White Boys being out on the streets is a mark of Christmas being here.” He added, “Before this Victorian idea of Christmas being polite, on the island it was historically a time for relaxing and having fun, and also partying and being silly.” Furthermore, he noted, “Knowing how much work people put in behind the scenes to make it happen, it’s an important thing which is changing every year.” While the plays lack a fixed script, they feature a humorous sword fight to the death between two knights, who symbolize St. George and St. Patrick, preceding the revival segment. This street performance, which incorporates a unique White Boys carol and concludes with a sword dance, will be presented at various sites across the island. Specific performance times and locations are as follows: 11:00 GMT in Ramsey, outside the Courthouse; 12:00 in Kirk Michael, outside Cannan Court; 13:30 in Peel, on Michael Street (Southern Whiteboys); 14:30 in Peel, Michael Street (Peel White Boys); 17:00 in Peel, Black Dog Pizza, East Quay; 10:00 in Port St Mary, on Bay View Road near the village shops; 10:45 in Port Erin at the Railway Station; 11:30 in Colby, at the Methodist Hall; and 12:15pm in Castletown Square.