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Mummers break winter blues

Enjoy tales of old with performing troupe of revellers
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Performers from Saltwater Theatre prepare to face off during a tale told during the Mummers Masque.

Mummers Masque is an ode to the English tradition of mummering, when holiday revellers (called mummers) roamed door-to-door dressed in disguise, offering amusement and entertainment in the form of music, dance and a play.

In exchange for food, drink and warmth they sang, danced and acted out the story of Father Christmas, St. George and the Dragon, a Turkish Knight, Death and Rebirth.

“This is a very interesting Christmas show that is an interesting change from the Christmas standards that are out this time of the year. It is a short, family-oriented opera by Canadian composer Dean Bury,” said director Joanne Hounsell.

Instead of opening your door this year, you’ll be able to see the mummers at St. Ann’s Academy in Victoria. Shows run Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 18 and 19 at 2:30 p.m.

Presented by Saltwater Theatre, The Mummers Masque invites one and all to a rollicking, fun Christmas story for everyone. “Brought to you by the finest musicians with the lightest of hearts, the Mummers Masque will lift your spirits and warm the bleak midwinter,” said Hounsell.

Tickets are available at the door 45 minutes before curtain or in advance at the McPherson Box Office at 250-386-6121.