Capital Culture & Craft Tour - 1st Quarter 2017 Issue No.178 - City of Auckland Morris Dancers ...
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1st Quarter 2017
Issue No.178
Capital Culture & Craft
Tour
The New Zealand Morris Sphere
Issue 178 First Quarter 2017
CONTENTS
Sounds Royal ...............................................3
Thorndon Fair .............................................3
CAMD News ..................................................4
Fiery Peak .....................................................6
Phoenix ..........................................................7
Library News ................................................7
Carols in Packe Street Park ......................8
Nor’ West Arch AGM ..................................9
Ragged Crow ..............................................10
White Rose ................................................11
Tussock Jumpers at the Twisted Hop...12
Christmas in Hagley Park .......................13
Annual Summer School 1940 ...............14
2017 Morris Tour (Cap Cul,&Craft) ...16
Minutes of National Morris AGM .........30
Sphere Accounts 2016 ..........................31
Well folks. Here is the first issue for 2017. The picture above is the editor rabbiting on
at the AGM. It was even noted in the minutes. I was trying to explain how the Sphere
had got a $66.70 donation. The City of Auckland dancers had not received their copies
of Sphere, and after a lot emailing to and fro the Post Office agreed to pay the value of
the goods plus postage. Hence the money, which CAMD decided to give to the Sphere.
Which kept books in the black.
This years coffers are already filling up. So I should be able to produce a reasonable
magazine. People have been sending a fair amount of copy. So much so that this copy
has thirty two pages. I still had a couple of things I couldn’t fit in. Maybe next time.
All the Best.
Rod
The cover shows Bedlam dancing outside the
Dowse Art Museum, Lower Hutt, on Monday of
the Tour.
N.Z.Morris Sphere
2 no 178
Mind Over Matter Morris
SOUNDS ROYAL
Queen’s Birthday Weekend Knees-Up
Friday 2 – Monday 5 June
577 Queen Charlotte Dr, Havelock
Limited accommodation in Judy and John Shone’s House and garden.
The programme at this point is loose but will include an early swim, and dancing at local
places of interest such as Pelorus Bridge, Anakiwa and Havelock. There will be an Ale.
All Welcome
Further arrangements and costs depend on interest shown
Contact Jeneane: jdhobby@xtra.co.nz or Judy: jjs.shone@paradise.net.nz
Thorndon Fair
The Brittanic Bedlam Morris Gentlemen, regular performers at the Thorndon Fair, were in
colourful dance action early.
The Thorndon Fair drew big crowds on Sunday as the popular Wellington event
marked its 40th year.
People of all ages packed inner city Tinakori Rd and lower Hill St on an overcast but
warm and calm day for the fair, which since 1977 has operated as a fundraiser for the local
Thorndon School.
More than 200 stall holders offered the good-natured festivalgoers a wide range of
products and craft goods, both new and second-hand, while the large variety of food stalls
were popular from the 10am opening onwards.
no 178 3 N.Z.Morris Sphere
What CAMD Did This Summer
In anticipation of the coming summer, attendees at the Parnell Festival of Roses on
Sunday 13th November had the privilege of witnessing several performances by the City
of Auckland Morris Dancers – and because Christmas can never arrive too soon, Glen
Eden held its Santa Parade the following Saturday, with CAMD once more taking part.
Following this up on Thursday 24th November, a Morris Thanksgiving was held at
Andy’s place, because Morris Dancers have plenty to be thankful for.
Not to be outdone by Glen Eden, CAMD once more performed as part of
Panmure’s Christmas Parade on Saturday 3rd December, and CAMD had their own
Christmas party two Thursdays later – featuring a bring-and-share feast, and a
Mummers Play containing many characters and plot devices that have become like old
friends.
After taking a break for a month or so – enabling several side-members to travel
to Wellington for the NZ Morris Tour – CAMD roared back to life at the Auckland
Folk Festival, held from January 27th to 30th. The City of Auckland Morris Dancers
joined visiting Sydney side Black Joak Morris in spreading Morris lore at the festival
through workshops and performances for the masses. As autumn approaches, CAMD’s
– and indeed everyone in the Southern Hemisphere’s – year has just begun.
Stephen Hood
Introducing Ali
C.A.M.D. has been blessed by the arrival
of the lovely Ali Nedoma from California.
Ali is a long standing member of a
Morris side there and she brings a wealth
of experience, talent and joy.
She is currently working at
Auckland University and we are hoping
that she will be here for a goodly time.
Ali has joined us for a number of
dance-outs and has provided a great deal
of energy and good looks to our side.
Please stay a while Ali, we LOVE
you!!!!
N.Z.Morris Sphere 4 no 178
A New Tradition?
The Glen Eden Christmas Parade saw a new innovation in Morris, one that
Bob named “Brolly Dancing”.
Faced with a possible disaster, no musos and rain , a small but intrepid band of
C.A.M.D. members decided to carry on regardless.
Armed with nothing more than umbrellas and determination we set off and
joined the parade, marching behind some kind of Chinese brass band. We waved,
smiled, larked about and brandished our brollies in time to the music.
Somewhat to our surprise the crowd loved it and we got laughs, cheers and
heaps of positive interaction.
We had lots of fun and discovered that it is amazing how well improvisation
can work.
So I guess the lesson is.....never give up!!!!
Patricia Price
no 178 5 N.Z.Morris Sphere
Fiery Peak
Fiery Peak has recruited two more dancers,
colleagues of Anne’s who are proving fast
learners and energetic dancers. Krista and
Natalie (see picture) get to most practices
and have already danced out, equipped with
excellent new tatter jackets made for them by
Janette, one of our musicians. Her husband,
Reg supports us with his set of harmonicas,
heard in all but the noisiest settings - it’s
amazing how well the sound carries.
Repertoire at about 20 dances and growing,
with a new one created by the side recently
in Border style.
Krista and Natalie
We danced out at Pleasant Point where they have a Morris Street just waiting for our
arrival (see picture) and a café that sells famous Custard Squares, to which were treated
by our bagman.
We succesfully hosted Nor’ West Arch in Geraldine in November and had a day
with other sides at Oamaru Victorian Fete.
Rhys Taylor
N.Z.Morris Sphere 6 no 178
Phoenix
After our very nice Garden Ramble with Bells On weekend during the Taranaki
Garden Festival in November, where all the planning for the Waitangi in
Wanganui weekend took place over a few glasses of vino, not much happened on
the local morris scene, partly due to the abysmal summer weather, not conducive
to dancing outdoors in nice garden /park locations. Only one Phoenix bird on the
Tour. But we started the local morris practice year with a bang ( well actually
gins and tonic ) with four dancers and a muso. Unfortunately we couldn’t get into
the Hall due to locks being changed over the summer, so we had to repair to my
place for a social gathering instead. So first actual practice is next Thursday the
16th February at 7.30pm Westend scout hall New Plymouth.
We have unearthed a school group of Maypole dancers who are performing next
Sunday the 18th of Feb at the annual Hay day where all the old hay making
paraphernalia is resurrected and the good ole days are relived so we are off to try
and recruit these keen young folk dancers; followed by a paid gig in Stratford for
a birthday party. Hopefully we can keep the momentum up and get out and about
over the autumn. The Multiethnic Extravaganza takes place in New Plymouth
on Saturday March 4th, starting with a parade at 10am through the city and then
dancing around the food stalls. If anyone wants to join us you will be very
welcome.
Next away weekend is the Autumn equinox in Hawkes Bay, several of us are
planning to go .
Many thanks to Mike and Sara for the brilliant weekend in Wanganui .
Morris on
Cheers Janet Phoenix Morris
Library News
Two new items have been gifted to the library, both relating to the Great Yorkshire
Tour held in August last year. Helen and Richard Gibbs have donated the journal
scrapbook which participants contributed to during the Tour, and Christine Major
has donated a photo book of the event. Both provide a lasting record of the Great
Yorkshire Tour.
Do enquire about borrowing from the library – be prepared to pay postage. Loan
period is flexible but there are quite a few items out that have exceeded reasonable
loan time!
Get in touch with me at jdhobby@xtra.co.nz
no 178 7 N.Z.Morris Sphere
Carols in Packe Street Park with Nor’ West Arch
Sunday 4 December
Accompanying the
New Brighton Brass
Band, Nor’ West
Arch joined the
carol singers at the
Packe Street Park,
for a community
season’s
entertainment.
The audience
applauded most
generously.
In fact, they
joined in most
enthusiastically,
including some very
small children.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 8 no 178
Nor’ West Arch AGM January 19th 2017
Present: Sylvia, Debs, Yvonne, Graham, Clare, Angie, Rod, Alan, Eileen.
Apologies: Lynnette
NWA thanks to David Scott for representing the side so well at the morris tour AGM.
Thanks to the musicians and Squire for the last two years of work.
Sadly Prudence has decided to ‘hang up her kit’ and have a quieter year. She will be missed and we all
wish her well.
David has also returned his kit as he’ll be mainly in Perth in the immediate future. All agreed that his
dancing skills and good humour will be sorely missed.
Elections
The Squire: Sylvia proposed/Yvonne seconded Graham as Squire
who accepted this responsibility.
The Bean Counter: Yvonne. Eileen proposed/Clare seconded.
Auntie Hanmer: Eileen agreed to continue as there were no other enthusiastic takers.
Outings _ Oamaru: a serious discussion about the format of the weekend .
(Geraldine Sat/Oamaru Sun). In 2017 the Victorian Festival is on Show Weekend. The Squire is happy
with the new way of doing things, so perhaps we all are .
_ Akaroa – Debs suggested dancing there when there’s a cruise ship in.
_ Clare suggested dancing at the rest home where she works!
_ Geraldine in spring (general consensus that it might be best to give Kaikoura a miss this spring)
Recruitment Agreed we need to have more dancers. Graham to check out the UK Sylvia’s contact details
and also keep the Facebook page up to date.
Morris kit _ The Squire would like the dancers to have lightweight tatters, preferably in blue/black/gold.
Yvonne suggested a tabard style, Clare has a suitable pattern she’ll bring to practice night to see whether
the style suits. At this point the Treasurer spoke – we have enough money for kit so better spend it before
her next big holiday!
_ The musicians were asked to share their needs (really??). The Squire suggested Angie’s navy jacket
should be tarted up with new colour sections to match the new Clare waistcoats. Alan encouraged to
purchase his very own navy blue jacket .
NWA contact details Graham will update the contact list.
Money matters The Squire says income exceeds expenditure so the side could look at subsidising more
morris travel.
Hanmer and dances generally:The Squire wants the side to focus on Styx Mill (so it’s ready for Hanmer)
and possibly start learning Twiglet. There’s a need to work on dances for four or five people .
Agreed that Hanmer mass dances should preferably be border style, and ones that we’ve done already,
not brand new dances.
Equipment The side unanimously agreed to reimburse the Squire for the new jazzy sound equipment
(proposed Alan/seconded Deb)
The AGM formally came to an end.and the doors were locked – not to be opened until all present had
eaten all the cakes, biscuits, chocolate, fruit and scones.
The above has been edited to fit the page. Ed.
no 178 9 N.Z.Morris Sphere
Ragged Crow January 2017
We kicked off with the National Morris Tour in Wellington, hosted by Britan-
nic Bedlam Morris Gentlemen. This tour was a great start to the year and apart from
the dodgy flight into Wellington and the weird weather which never fails to live up to
expectation all went swimmingly well!
It was a fun week of dance. Having folk from Australia only added to the
madness of a gaggle of strangely attired Morris people descending on the inner city
pubs and parks to showcase what we have learnt over the past year and basically just
to have a jolly good time! We even got invited to a great family owned brewery called
Kereru and got to have dance in the brewery itself! The two owners were invited to the
Ale that night and arrived with a gift of a few boxes of goodies!
Before all the January shenanigans, Ragged Crow were asked to perform in
a pantomime! Squire Rogers lovely better half, Alli, wrote it and we had a blast
performing along with the cast.... something completely different and a great way to
do a bit of advertising for the side to boot!
It being summer, Ragged Crow have dumped the hall practice sessions and gone
al fresco, deciding that practising out and about in Nelson is a far more fun way to go
about it. So far we have twice practised at 1903 Square, a great little square at the
bottom of the cathedral steps. All manner of folk happen by.... some to watch, others to
join in and some to even give us a bit of lip!
Thursday just gone was a great evening with a number of the public joining in and
really getting into the dance. The Prince Albert Pub is always a fun place to dance, if a
little challenging! The space is VERY tight and all manner of things happen, but none
the less, the punters and backpackers always seem to have a great time! The weather
was a bit damp, but it also kept the heat at bay and our faces didn’t run too much!
N.Z.Morris Sphere 10 no 178Just of late we have been experimenting with our face make up. Rather than totally
blackening up we have tried out a mask effect to which we have had very positive
feedback and one not so... we all like the latest look instead of some of us not really liking
the complete blackface look or feel. Watch this space.
Hanmer Springs weekend
is coming up at the end of
March. This is always a great
weekend so I for one can’t
wait! All I’m hoping right
now though is to be able to
dance after stuffing my knee
at the tour! Fingers crossed the
weather gods will be kind with
no snow, rain or earthquakes
to mar the atmosphere!
See you there!
Polly Rabbits
White Rose
The tour this year was well organised by Bedlam and St Pats provided the perfect venue.
Ample food with emphasis on the meat. Rory liked the commercial dishwasher. White
Rose enjoyed sharing Ally Park with the rest of NZ Morris. Traditional Wellington
weather was put on. When bringing the Aussie tourists to Silverstream from the
airport, Wellington was in the throes of a good storm. One could not see the hills on
either side of the Hutt Valley at all. Visibility extended to the river only.
The visitors were keen to experience an earthquake of which we supplied multiple.
Free wifi was useful for utilising newfound skills navigating Geonet.
The International Space Station flyby provided a novel end to the ale.
Have Bedlam found a new Patron with Kereru Brewery? Watch out for branded kit
appearing.
The tour also generated new interest for White Rose which resulted in a few enquiries
and one body through the door so far.
Mike managed to to book a fine weekend for a very pleasant and convivial Waitangi
event in Whanganui. Sarah talked about it becoming an annual occurrence. Only if the
same weather can be ordered! Perfect for camping in Mike’s front yard. The younger
generation had lots of fun with the campfire and marshmallows. Never mind the burns.
We look forward to inspecting the new en suite next time!
Elizabeth Allen
no 178 11 N.Z.Morris SphereTussock Jumpers at the Twisted Hop
for the Cider Festival
Saturday 11th February
The Twisted Hop held a
Cider Festival.
The Tussock Jumpers
joined in the fun and
entertained the crowds.
It was a very hot after-
noon, and they did two
half hour or so sessions.
Eileen, Angie, and Alan
provided the music. The
twisted Hop provided food
and drink so a great time
was had by all.
And the crowd even
joined in with a version of
the Shepherd’s Hey.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 12 no 178Christmas in Hagley Park Nor’ West Arch and the Tussock Jumpers spent a happy Saturday afternoon in December dancing for the people in Hagley Park. They even thought it was good enough to applaud. We must have been doing something right. no 178 13 N.Z.Morris Sphere
Annual Summer School. Wellington Training College
1st – 6th January 1940: Campus Comments by H Courtney Archer
(edited by J D Hobby)
Amid the bustle of the Christchurch railway station at 7 pm on December 29, the
Christchurch folk dancers gathered to join the train which was the beginning of that eagerly
awaited journey to Wellington for the Folk Dance Summer School.
After the confusion of going aboard they gathered again on the deck to watch the grey
hills of Lyttelton deepen as the SS Wahine slid slowly between the moles and turned to open
sea. Followed by a few crying seagulls and drifting smoke the Wahine turned the Heads and
the gentle tossing of the open sea soon cleared the decks—but not to sleep, for black-out
conditions make that impossible on a crowded ship.
Early next morning we gathered to watch the pink sugar-icing tower of the
Exhibition disappear behind the grim rocks of the fort and we were soon in Wellington.
We had decided to hire a carrier to take our considerable luggage to the Training
College and were immediately pounced on by two carriers, who, judging from their words
and looks, were prepared to fight for the privilege of carrying our luggage—until Shurry,
diplomatic as ever, settled the argument by tossing a coin.
On reaching the Training College, camp beds were erected and luggage unpacked—
the men in one common-room the women in another— while the other common-room
complete with piano, table, chairs and gas stove made an ideal living room. Here we met
Miss Todd and Miss Stewart of New Plymouth, who had arrived two days before.
The first task on arrival was the formidable one of buying provisions for 15 people
for three days, Sunday, 1st and 2nd January. This discovery was made about 11 am! That
problem settled, most of the party set off for the Exhibition—because they said, with truth,
“There will be no time during the rest of the week.”
Sunday morning saw the arrival of McArthur— who, after causing some anxiety by
not turning up on Friday, airily explained that he thought the 29th was Saturday. Later in the
day saw the arrival of Peter Robertson who had travelled from Auckland by bicycle. After
surviving the once over all round, Peter was adopted unanimously by the Christchurch
contingent. (Nelson tried to adopt him later in the week but was of course, much too late).
On Tuesday Jim Johnstone and Mr and Mrs Rout arrived. On Sunday evening we held an
impromptu party when Mrs Hop. and John taught some country dances new to us.
Some of the boarders that night decided to sleep out of doors. Much to the amusement of the
milkman, and the curiosity of several dogs and cats, to say nothing of countless insects.
Early morning found people making their way to the shower—discovered by lucky chance
behind the stage— or sunbathing, as the later sunshine proved much too strong for the
people from colder climes. The really great asset of the shower being in the hall was that
those waiting could sing folk songs or practise Morris steps waving towels and sponges as
handkerchiefs.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 14 no 178And so to breakfast. We now enter that important domain ruled over by George Head, PC
(Provisioner in Chief). George was to be found any day about 4 pm, staggering in under
a large haversack packed full of fruit, bread, vegetables, to say nothing of cheese. (During
the latter half of the week cheese was bought at the rate of 3 lb per day). We should like
to put on record here our very grateful thanks for his heroic work, which played a great
part in making the camping life the success it was.
And so we started the week. After a morning of Morris and Sword some of the
party set off by cable car to lunch in the city, while those left sat down to a lunch of
tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, cheese and fruit. These items were our main provisions
for most meals—and worked out surprisingly cheap, about 10/6 each for the week. After
lunch saw a migration out onto the lawn with rugs, cushions, and books, plus chocolates
and the inevitable cameras. The Karori Baths, too, was a favourite spot for the hot
summer afternoons.
Laden with swords, sticks, baldricks, bellpads and suitcases Saturday midday saw
us packed into a rather overcrowded bus bound for the Exhibition. Of the Festival news
will be found elsewhere, and when all was over we returned to prepare a supper of
raspberries and cream only to find in the excitement that no one had bought them, but
the ubiquitous egg filled the occasion. After a good and quickly prepared supper the
Festival was continued. Shurry was invested with the noble and ancient order of New
Biggin, much pomp and ceremony being used over the investiture. Then Captain
Bradley led in his men of ancient and honourable fame to dance the appropriate dance
suitable to such an occasion. Shurry then sang some folk songs and George, PC gave
us the surprise turn of the evening by singing countless brilliant limericks, with a very
original jig and mouth organ accompaniment as chorus. Next the Foursome Reel was
well danced to admirable mouth organ music by the aforesaid George, PC. Altogether a
spirited and varied wind up to the day of the Festival.
Sunday came with a bump—or rather and earthquake—at 6 am which soon cleared
the room of sleepers (except the unfortunate few who awoke after the excitement was all
over). As we lay that morning in the sun we could hear the voices of committee raised
loud and long in discussion and argument, and we were rather surprised to find that John
still had the energy to dance us “Ladies’ Pleasure,” which we filmed for future use.
Monday of course meant packing and departure but, loath to separate, still one
more meeting was arranged—“Dinner at the Waldorf.” Here Shurry was presented with a
most valuable gift (ie Mary Neal’s Esperance Morris Book, found for 1/- in a secondhand
shop) to add to his library. After a good and jolly meal all went down to the ships—some
to the Nelson boat, others to the Lyttelton ferry. The Folk Dance Summer School was
over.
The report above comes from Issue 6 of the English Folk Lore Dance and Song (NZ
Branch Society) March 1940. “Shurry” was Francis Shurrock. Mrs Hop. was Mariana
Hopkinson. John was John Oliver. Oliver’s filmed jig is almost certainly the one in the
existing archival film, which also captures the group at the Centennial Exhibition the
day before – Sat 6th Jan.
no 178 15 N.Z.Morris SphereMind Over Matter Morris – Cultured and Crafty
by Jeneane Hobby
A new year—a new me… maybe. I’ve just been transcribing Courtney Archer’s
account of the 1940 Folk Dance Summer School in Wellington and can’t get over
the parallels of experience with ours, though they had a week of sunshine. There are
plenty of reports of this particular summer school from various participants but none
quite capture the spirit that Courtney Archer does, of a bunch of people getting to-
gether to indulge their obsession with folk dance and music. From someone forgetting
to buy the raspberries and cream to lugging sticks, swords and bells across town on a
bus, the frustration and fun is palpable. They even had an earthquake!
Frustration—yes, I’m sorry Andy that I lost my phone the day before we flew up
from Christchurch so communication at the airport was misleading. But I’m grateful
that you were there to pick Kitty and me up and deliver us to St Patricks’s College at
Silverstream. What fabulous dorms with their full-sized beds and room to spread out.
What great gathering space with the dining area separate from the social space so
that things didn’t need to be packed away for meals. What great meals for the type of
catering – plenty of salad to balance the abundance of meat, and a bit too much food
packaging without recycling for my taste, but when in Rome… No pun intended.
I enjoyed the easy ambience of Arrival Day: time to settle in to our dorm and mingle
with old acquaintances. By evening when the music, if not the dancing, was pumping
I joined the ‘craft circle’ for awhile. Talk about taking the Tour theme literally. Claire
Smith had seen the potential for unravelling all her tangled thread! But Judi Elliot
was not going to be lead astray by mundane tasks: she had a rug to crochet by the end
of the Tour.
Practicing
the dances
on Monday
morning
N.Z.Morris Sphere 16 no 1782017 Morris Tour
Capital Culture & Craft
Perth Morris dancing outside the Dowse Gallery
Monday morning saw everyone out in the carpark workshopping three tour dances.
I’d only had my new orthotic inserts for two weeks, but that was enough to get me up
for Ring o’ Bells when the cry went out for ‘one more here.’ It was interesting that Keith
had sourced early 20th Century commentary on the Lichfield tradition to tidy up the
Kiwi slide—or living tradition of this dance. I enjoyed dancing, and have to confess that
while following instructions I was also listening very carefully to my knees and
ankles. But I enjoyed equally reading the background of this dance as it was presented
in Bedlam’s workshop, and was particularly interested in the mention of the boys from
the borstal blacking their faces, having earlier noted that they did not want to be
recognised when dancing out in public. This indicates use of blacked faces as disguise
in quite recent history. The other two dances, Alexandra Park from White Rose, and
Marie’s Wedding taught by Judi and along with Ring o’ Bells were all danced
enthusiastically throughout the Tour.
In the afternoon we gathered en masse for some Culture at the Dowse gallery in
Lower Hutt. I enjoyed seeing David Scott with the full side of Perth Morris Men—great
to have them and their companions along for the ride. The bathing costume exhibition
in the gallery was a hit with our group evoking plenty of memories of summers past.
Then we moved on for some Craft— ale of course. How did we all fit in to the Sprig
and Fern at Petone? But we were tolerated, nay even appreciated judging by the number
of busy phone cameras snapping the dancing.
no 178 17
N.Z.Morris SphereDancing at the
Dowse Art
Museum
Perth Morris Men entertaining
at the Sprig and Fern,
while terrorising an innocent
birthday girl. who is trying to
protect their hats.
End of a
Mass dance
at the Dowse
Art Museum
N.Z.Morris Sphere 18 no 178Tuesday was wet, wet, wet. Dancing in the rain was the order of the day. Outside Te Papa
made for some pretty spectacular photos but compromised the group’s ability to dance to
the audience since once security had moved us away from the entrance, the musicians had
to shelter at a different orientation to the crowds flowing into the museum. Later some of us
joined the crowds and Kitty and I took the opportunity to see the Gallipoli exhibition.
Myles Dawson doing
Dancing in the rain outside Te Papa his jig
HOTS dancing under the shelter
no 178 19
N.Z.Morris SphereAfter lunch the dancing migrated to Mac’s Brew Bar where a narrow covered
way provided shelter. My new orthotics were causing aches and pains in unexpected
places and I’m afraid I was just feeling elderly by this stage of the day. Pretty surprising
then that later that evening after the Ceilidh had run its course, I got up to dance Derby
Garland. I remember learning this with Jane Firth within my first couple of months as a
Morris dancer but it is always a tricky dance in a tour situation to get flowing because of
the very specific roles of individuals. Here, I was aware that I still do not want to perform
dances that have a rant step in them. But I did realise that I had managed one dance each
day so far and that maybe I could challenge myself to one dance each day of the Tour…
What would it be tomorrow?
Arriving at
Te Aro Street
in a big red
doubledecker
bus.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 20 no 178Take it easy Jeneane. Marlborough Fair in that idyllic spot, Te Aro Park. That wasn’t on
Wednesday’s programme was it Andy? You were just kidding about the Garage Project
and Tuatara Third Eye - right? You knew all along that we were going on a mystery tour.
The double decker bus was fantastic and it did take us to Te Aro Street, where we could see
into the top windows of all those gorgeous gingerbread houses: worth doing #1. Coffee and
cake in one of Te Aro Street’s quaint cafes: worth doing #2. Dancing in that delightfully
wooded park with the POHS final practice hall watching over us: worth doing #3. Strolling
down to the Rogue and Vagabond like a bunch of raggle taggle gypsies oh: worth doing #4.
Then the Craft-as-in-ale rejoined the programme. What a great spot with Glover Park to hand
to drink, dance, sun ourselves in the surprising sunshine and linger longer in. Kitty and I did
sneak off for a bit of lunch and gratuitous shopping in Cuba St. Then maybe things could be
seen to turn to custard when the group gathered at Goldings Free Dive Bar and irked the
barman. For the record we were not “kicked out” but chose to leave rather than weather his
arrogant and narrow minded attitude. Weather. Yes it had been a lovely day till the storm
clouds gathered and not just in Goldings. The Hotel Bristol on Cuba St welcomed us with
open arms, or at least they didn’t bat an eyelid when we set up camp in their bar/dining room.
Just in time too as the Southerly storm slashed horizontal rain along Cuba St (how I used to
love the bad weather in Wellington). Not too long after that our friendly double decker bus
came to rescue us and take us home. I do think that this was my favourite day on the Tour.
Kitty and David’s double Jig.
no 178 N.Z.Morris Sphere
21Dancing in
Glover Park
by the
Rogue and
Vagabond.
Perth Morris Men
terrorising another
innocent maiden trying
to protect their hats.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 22 no 178Thursday Not much Windy Wellington on show but plenty of sunshine after the storm
made for some great photos outside Parliament. I danced Bonny Green for my daily
dose of dance and because it was the last of our public displays. Not a good idea on grass
uphill while the grrr in me wanted to dash up front and lead the dance to a good finish.
That was an appalling end to the dance guys. Maybe in my non-dashing state I could be
the national Bonny Green leader!!! Moving on then… to a fabulous tour of Parliament
with a witty, informative young Chinese Kiwi guide. Though he kept it light, the sense of
our country’s parliamentary process came across nicely. Over at the National Library we
heard about three documents that define our country including Kate Shepherd’s third and
successful Women’s Suffrage petition. Although I am a first generation New Zealander
the survey to collect descendents of the signatories showed a fascinating way to view
ancestral legacy. What a great morning Keith. Well done for organising it especially
having to make alternative arrangements late in the piece when the National Archives
were closed after the November earthquake.
no 178 N.Z.Morris Sphere
23After lunch everyone re-grouped at the National War Memorial Museum to see the
Great War Exhibition. Kitty and I had seen it before and were keen to spend more
time in the Gallipoli section. It was a good compliment to the exhibition we’d seen
earlier in the week at Te Papa but also at the end of the day, I felt how much it fitted
with the theme of what it is to be a New Zealander. Particularly moving were some
small watercolours painted by Captain Malone’s great granddaughter after a visit
with Peter Jackson to Gallipoli in 2015. On 8 August 2015, I’d watched a production
of Maurice Shadbolt’s ‘Once on Chunuk Bair’ and seen the Wellington Regiment’s
Malone character die on stage without appreciating that he was struck by New
Zealand shell fire. What it is to be a New Zealander? Wednesday may have been my
favourite day of the Tour, but Thursday was the most thoughtful for me.
That evening we turned to the whole World for Quiz Night. Some felt the quiz was
a bit long. I like quizzes so there. Being part of team is always touch and go. People
are sure they are right, then they know they were wrong once the sheet has been
handed in. Sometimes they aren’t sure they are right so we go with something else
which is wrong. All part of the fun and our team came close runners-up! Thanks
quiz masters – good questions.
Dancing at the Silverstream Railway
N.Z.Morris Sphere 24 no 178Full Steam Ahead Friday started with our AGM. There was some good debate about presenting our- selves in public, but I know this: those who dance footloose and fancy free are unlikely to become sticklers for order and precision, and the precise are never going to understand the joy of anarchy. People do join the Morris after being attracted by the friendly play- fulness on display just as others join it for the intricacy of stepping and smart uniform. We will never please everyone watching us perform because the public is just as diverse in character as we are ourselves. Full steam ahead. I always like steam trains – any trains actually (especially when they become the last one you rode before an earthquake destroyed the track). The Silverstream Railway is one of those wonderful work- in-progress heritage projects. Its limited track length meant we rode back and forth over the same route interspersed with vigorous dance spots on the station platform. There were even other visitors to watch and photograph us! Great fun and the dancing looked good too. After lunch back at St Pat’s, we headed into Upper Hutt for dancing. During this programmed spot I became one of those annoying appendages who dodders off to check the secondhand shops and have afternoon tea while the rest of the group makes new plans. Sorry guys; can’t promise it won’t happen again but Kereru Brewery was a nice surprise when we found it or it found me… no 178 25 N.Z.Morris Sphere
Dancing in the Mall in the
middle of Upper Hutt.
Dancing inside the factory of the Kereru Brewing Company.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 26 no 178Then Kereru Brewery found us - back at base! I loved the fact that they walked in with their armfuls of beer, while we were dancing our final Saturday Night On (I’d saved my- self for this one) and then joined the procession through Brittanic Bedlam Morris Gentlemen’s touching guard of honour to join us at our Feast and participate in some dancing later. What a contrast to the Goldings barman. I feel they got the best of us that night and hope that a new partnership blossoms between them and Wellington Morris. The Feast. It was a splendid meal generously sponsored by Chris Mills of the Kereru Brewing Company. It was pure chance that we bumped into Chris on the main street of Upper Hutt where we were dancing. He invited us to his Brewery, an invitation that was impossible to refuse. Dances were duly done at the Brewery and photos have been posted on the Brewery’s Facebook page. The accompanying photos show the generous contribution of beer that Chris made to the Feast, and the diners at the Feast. Chris and his partner Natasha are 3rd and 2nd on the right . Ian Appleton no 178 27 N.Z.Morris Sphere
There are lots of strange things happened at the Ale. This is only a small selection. N.Z.Morris Sphere 28 no 178
Mind Over Matter Morris initiated a new member – Karen Dawson joined Kitty and me
for a very last minute contribution to the Ale. Talking to Karen made me realise how
much support Morris partners contribute quietly to the scene, without the rest of us giv-
ing it much thought. Thank you to everyone who supports their spouse/partner/lover/child
to keep Morris dancing alive in New Zealand. Dorothy Faithfull particularly came to the
fore on this occasion especially as I sense that there were some stressful moments for
Roger in the final lead up to the Tour.
ILOT/JAMISON AWARD
This award is presented
annually to a member of
the Morris to encourage
development. The award
comprises a copy of Bacon.
Jeneane and Steve presented
the award to Monika Smith
(White Rose) to enthusiastic
acclaim.
See AGM.
So the Capital Craft and Culture Tour ended—this week not just of dancing, but tuis fluting
in pohutukawa blossom, of night-time quake-waking, and massed up-gazings to watch the
International Space Station pass overhead. Great memories Gentlemen. Thank you all and
well done.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 29 no 1782017 New Zealand Morris Tour Annual General Meeting
Held at St. Pats College Silverstream On Friday 6th January 2017 at 9.00am
Chair: Dave Barnes Bagman: Roger Faithfull Note taker: Ian Appleton
Attendees: BBMG: Andy Lawton Mark Hutton Keith Riach Mike Breese Jim Walls
Michiel Verkade Roger Faithfull Dave Barnes Grant Wright Ian Appleton
Ragged Crow: Pete Hall Chris Hall Gay Bryant Caroline Williams
Roger Dunham Hamish Dublon
White Rose: Debbie van Hamelsveld Monika Smith Elizabeth Allen Clare Smith Isabelle Collins
Nor’ West Arch: David Scott CAMD Sue Porritt Maureen Aston Steve Dancer
Tussock Jumpers: Rod McKenzie Jeneane Hobby Kitty Jamison
Rosewood: Lis Todd Arthur Todd Glen Adams Phoenix: Janet Fleury
Australian Morris Ring: Tim Beckett White Horse: Richard Baker Sarah Burgess
HOTS: Jenny Dobson Lynette Hills Ann Williams
Perth Morris Men: Steven Mansfield Pat Mansfield
Mad Tatters Morris: Laurel de Vietri Britannia Morris Men: Donald Barnes
Apologies CAMD: Bob & Cheryl, Andy Smith, Mind over Matter: Judy Shone
Rosewood: David Newman, Rob Fireman, BBMG: Richard Field
Brittania (Oz): George Meirosu
Minutes of the 2016 AGM Published in Sphere. Taken as read.
Matters arising None
Tour Report
Bagman Roger said the tour might just break even or make a small loss.
Jeneane presented the Bagman with the Tour Shield.
Hamish asked if we could become GST registered to claim back the GST.
Roger said most unlikely as we are not even an organisation.
Tour 2018
Dave read the minutes of the 2016 AGM indicating that Marlborough and Auckland would explore
options.
No report from Marlborough. Roger (Ragged Crow) had contacted their Squire and they have not
progressed this.
Auckland: Sue Porritt reported that Andy has explored accommodation at Scout Camp at Green Bay;
Keith / Karen said there was an option in the Far North.
Points made: Avoid clash with Whare Flats Folk Festival in Dunedin; arrange dates to end at 27/28
January for Auckland Folk Festival.
Show of hands (not binding) to help CAMD with planning.
Timing: Early (include New Year’s Eve) (16) or later to link to Auckland Folk Festival (23)
Split tour; Auckland / Far North – Unanimous – No.
Location: Auckland (2), Far North (lots)
Tour 2019 No-one offered.
ILOT/JAMISON Award
This award is presented annually to a member of the Morris to encourage development. The award
comprises a copy of Bacon. Jeneane and Steve presented the award to Monika Smith (White Rose) to
enthusiastic acclaim. Lis took a photo.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 30 no 178Sphere
Rod’s report. Sphere is doing fine. He told long rambling stories about Auckland’s payment and Jeneane’s
proof reading. Hamish proposed a vote of thanks. Passed with acclaim. Rod always wants more copy.
Archives.
Jeneane’s report. She described how the archives work.
Main discussion, initiated by Keith, was about the archives stored at the Hocken Library.
Mark proposed that we investigate the removal of the Morris archives from the Hocken Library to the
National Library
Seconded Jeneane; Passed unanimous.
General Business
Wide ranging discussion about what was seen as a general sloppiness at our dance outs.
Points made (though not necessarily agreed):
•Needs time to learn tour dances – send instructions in advance – not successful in the past
– what about a video?
•Need some self-regulation – not keen on written guidelines – to ensure better etiquette.
Could have a discussion on etiquette at beginning of the tour.
•White board would help us see what dances are coming up so that we can be better prepared.
•Gaffers did try to ensure dancers were informed
•Musicians – could have a music gaffer – musicians can follow only one side
•Acknowledge the crowd – speak to them and don’t get in their way.
No specific conclusions or recommendations though the white board seems a good idea.
More General Business
•Ann Williams announced the Equinox Meeting in Hawkes Bay
•Donald Barnes thanked Bedlam and issued an invitation to a cider festival
•Jeneane announced a Nor’ West Arch event the weekend after the equinox
•Mike Breese announced a Waitangi weekend at Wanganui
No further Business Meeting closed at 10.08am
Sphere Accounts 2016
Opening Balance 155.71
Expenses
Printing 729.30
Posting 271.70
Stationary 64.00
Sundries 2.00
Total 1067.00
Subscriptions 1077.00
Donation 66.90
Total 1299.61
Balance 232.61
N.Z.Morris Sphere 31 no 178Editor: Rod McKenzie Subscription
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Photos and Images
and General Copy
Friday May 12
Rowan Dublon on his second NZ Morris Tour,
seen here with his father Hamish, on the train.
N.Z.Morris Sphere 32 no 178You can also read
