Costume from the White Boys mummers' play
Date made: 1970s
Description: A White Boys costume made and used by John Kaneen, around 1975. The costume was made to replace an earlier one used when playing the character of Prince Valentine in performances of the Manx White Boys play at a folk club in Runcorn. One notable member of the cast was the Liverpool playwright, Willie Russell. This newer costume was only worn once for the White Boys play, but was occasionally worn when Kaneen returned to the Island on St Stephen's Day (Boxing Day) when he went out on 'Hunt the Wren'.
The traditional White Boys costume is a white tunic (often made from an old sheet) decorated with coloured rags and ribbons.
The White Boys is the name given both to a mummers' play performed at Christmas on the Island and to its performers. The story is a version of the legend of St George in which all of the characters wear white, except the Doctor who dresses in black. Mummers' plays are thought to have their origins in the 1600s or possibly earlier, and the 'White Boys' play has been performed on the Isle of Man since at least the early 19th century. Several versions of the White Boys play have been recorded by folklorists in the Isle of Man, but by the 1900s it had almost died out. The tradition was revived in the late 20th century as part of a wider revival in Manx culture, including Manx language, music and dance.
Materials: Cotton
Object name: tunic
Collection: Costume & Textiles Collection
ID Number: 2000-0100