The Knots of May

The Knots of May, from Lewes, East Sussex, were founded in 1974, so they are celebrating 50 years this year. They perform dances from the NW of England, augmented by dances written for them, and from Europe and America. Their kit of long Edwardian style dresses of different colours and white pinnies has never changed. Their garlands are bedecked with hand sewn flowers and sticks with coloured ribbons. They wear black shoes, or clogs with 'irons' which gives their clog dances a distinctive sound. They have a loyal band of musicians, even featuring a serpent.