The White Boys Return: Manx Christmas Folk Theatre Comes Alive
Centuries-old Manx Christmas tradition The White Boys returns across the Isle of Man this December with street performances, dramatic storytelling, and seasonal carols.
The White Boys is a centuries-old Christmas tradition on the Isle of Man that returns this December with lively street performances. Costumed troupes travel between towns, inviting residents to watch a playful mix of storytelling, music and theatre.
About The White Boys
The White Boys is a form of mumming—a traditional street play tied to the festive season. The performers dress in white, with bright ribbons, tinsel, beads and tall paper hats, calling out, "Who wants to see The White Boys act?"
The drama features a knightly duel, the hero's death, and a healer nicknamed the Doctor who revives the hero. The show often includes a carol and a lively dance, finishing with swords crossing to form a star.
Culture Vannin's James Franklin says The White Boys is one of the island's most joyous traditions and that audiences are growing as the shows expand.
Origins and history
The earliest printed reference appears in 1832 in the Douglas-based Manx newspaper, with eyewitness accounts from 1838 describing white-clad groups visiting homes, performing improvised acts and collecting donations afterward. The White Boys remained a popular local custom, similar in spirit to other seasonal traditions.
Although its popularity dipped in the 20th century, the tradition never fully disappeared. It was revived in the 1970s by folk enthusiasts, and today modern troupes keep the custom alive, performing in Peel, Ramsey and Castletown in December.
How to watch
Two groups will bring The White Boys to these locations on Saturday, 20 December:
- 10:00 GMT: Port St Mary, outside the Co-op (Southern Whiteboys)
- 10:00 GMT: Castletown Square (Peel White Boys)
- 10:45 GMT: Port Erin Railway Station near the Whistlestop Café (Southern Whiteboys)
- 11:00 GMT: Ramsey, outside the courthouse (Peel White Boys)
- 11:30 GMT: Colby, by the Spar/Colby Glen Hotel (Southern Whiteboys)
- 12:00 GMT: Peel, Michael Street (Peel White Boys)
- 12:15 GMT: Castletown Square (Southern Whiteboys)
- 13:30 GMT: Peel, Michael Street (Southern Whiteboys)
- 16:00 GMT: Peel, Black Dog Pizza, East Quay (Peel White Boys)
Culture Vannin notes that times or venues may change, so check their page for the latest updates.
There is also a performance planned at Peel Cathedral on 3 January as part of the Oie'll Verree event (Old Christmas Eve celebrations).
For more Isle of Man stories, follow INLIBER’s coverage and watch INLIBER North West Tonight on INLIBER iPlayer, and follow INLIBER Isle of Man on Facebook and X.
Expert comment
The expert: The White Boys bring a joyous, community-led form of folklore to life, connecting heritage with today’s audiences. Local groups say the revival strengthens cultural pride and attracts visitors.
Summary
The White Boys blend theatre, tradition, and festive street performance in a historic Manx celebration. From 19th-century scripts to modern tours, the tradition continues to evolve while inviting locals and visitors to participate. Expect bright costumes, music, and a finale where swords form a star.
Key insight: The White Boys demonstrate how living folklore keeps the culture of the Isle of Man vibrant and relevant today. Source
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