The White Boys Return: Ancient Manx Christmas Folk Theatre Reopens
Centuries-old White Boys folk theatre returns to towns across the Isle of Man this festive season, reviving a lively Christmas tradition with processions, performances and celebrations.
A centuries-old Christmas tradition returns to towns around the Isle of Man this festive season, offering a lively mix of theatre, music and handmade costumes. The White Boys, famous for their white robes and bright decorations, perform in several communities on Saturday as part of the island’s holiday celebrations.
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nWhat is The White Boys tradition?
nThe White Boys is a form of mumming, a traditional Christmas theatre that dates back centuries.
nThe troupe moves through towns in white outfits festooned with ribbons, tinsel, beads and tall paper hats, inviting onlookers to watch by asking, 'Who wants to see The White Boys act?'
nThe drama that follows shows a knightly duel, the hero’s death and a revival led by a character known as the Doctor.
nThe performance also features a carol and a dramatic dance, ending with swords crossing to form a star.
nCulture Vannin’s James Franklin notes that The White Boys remains one of the island’s most joyous traditions and continues to grow in popularity as audiences return.
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nHow to watch a performance
nTwo groups will perform The White Boys at the locations listed below on Saturday 20 December:
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- 10:00 GMT: Port St Mary, outside the Co-op (Southern Whiteboys) n
- 10:00 GMT: Castletown Square (Peel White Boys) n
- 10:45 GMT: Port Erin Railway Station – by the Whistlestop Cafe (Southern Whiteboys) n
- 11:00 GMT: Ramsey, outside the courthouse (Peel White Boys) n
- 11:30 GMT: Colby, by the Spar/Colby Glen Hotel (Southern Whiteboys) n
- 12:00 GMT: Peel, Michael Street (Peel White Boys) n
- 12:15 GMT: Castletown Square (Southern Whiteboys) n
- 13:30 GMT: Peel, Michael Street (Southern Whiteboys) n
- 16:00 GMT: Peel, Black Dog Pizza, East Quay (Peel White Boys) n
Culture Vannin reminds visitors that timings and venues can change, so check for updates before heading out.
nThere will also be a Peel Cathedral performance on 3 January as part of the Oie’ll Verree celebration.
nRead more Isle of Man stories on INLIBER, watch INLIBER North West Tonight on INLIBER iPlayer and follow INLIBER Isle of Man on social media.
nExpert note: James Franklin of Culture Vannin says these revived shows help keep a rare folk tradition alive while inviting new audiences to enjoy Manx culture.
nShort summary: The White Boys blend theatre, music and bright costumes in a historic Manx Christmas custom. Performances travel to multiple towns during December, with a special event in Peel Cathedral in January. The revival has strengthened community involvement and tourist interest alike.
nKey takeaway: The White Boys are a living, evolving piece of Manx heritage that continues to attract crowds during the holiday season. BBC News
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