Beltane Border: The Dark Side Of Folk

Join us for rare conversation with Beltane Border, followed by a thrilling performance outside Ashburton Arts Centre.

What is behind the tradition - and subversion - of this legendary Dartmoor Morris side?
Where do the dances come from, and how do they relate to the landscape of Dartmoor?
And why the fierce faces and fishnets?

Beltane Border began as an all-female side called the Iron Maidens in 2000 and celebrates its silver anniversary this year. Their dances are rooted in the myths, legends and wilds of Dartmoor.

We'll be In Conversation with:

Ant: Dancer, Squire and Heart of Beltane. He is an authority on all things Morris, Real Ale, Dartmoor and the Weather Gods, and has been dancing for more years than he cares to admit.

Lisa: Dancer and resident storyteller, who weaves tales of Dartmoor magic, myth and legend into Beltane?s performances. She is author of four books on traditional folk tales, and also writes features and articles on wildlife, storytelling and the land.