Our Story, Our People
Welcome to Public Nuisance Border Morris Dancers! We are an enthusiastic group of individuals bringing a fresh perspective to the traditional art of Border Morris Dancing. With our flair for the dramatic and a commitment to innovation, we proudly celebrate this time-honored style while embracing new ideas. Each member plays a vital role in shaping our dance side and creating something very special. So, come on, let's meet them...
They call him 6
He calls himself the Artistic Director and he teaches the dances and sometimes plays the recorder. With over 40 years Morris Dancing experience, 6 is happy to be gently steering Public Nuisance into new uncharted waters, where anything goes, with a little help from his friends.
The Black Sabre!
​This man of mystery is not nearly as threatening as he seems. Meet the heartbeat of the side, our drummer. He is also our sound engineer and 'go to guy' for anything technical. Sometimes we drag him into a set of dancers, which he doesn't seem to mind. He does enjoy bashing sticks!
Whistler...
initially joined the Morris as a musician, but it didn't long for us to discover her talent as a dancer. She quickly became an invaluable asset to our group, seamlessly blending her skills. Occasionally, she picks up her whistle and sneaks back to join the musicians. As well as Morris dance tunes, whistler is equally at home with Medieval tunes or the theme song from 'Black Adder,'
Catweasel
Meet a talented concertina player who has been a figure in the folk scene for many years, both in New Zealand and the UK. In particular, he has had a rich background in playing for dancers, and brings a unique energy and passion to every performance,
Boffin
Although petite in stature, she is very much in touch with her 'inner Viking'. She now chucks sticks around as if she was a Nordic conqueror. And her commitment to Public Nuisance is just as passionate.
Swigger
One of our indispensible musicians, Swigger came to the melodeon relatively recently. He brings a wealth of experience from the English folk music tradition; singing and accompanying himself on guitar around the clubs, pubs, festivals and the like. He is an excellent raconteur and a vital part of our team.
Twinkle...
is the youngest yet one of the most seasoned dancers in our group. With a wealth of experience in various Morris styles, he first donned his bells at the tender age of eight. His insights are highly valued, and he plays a pivotal role in adapting and creating new movements that elevate our performances.
The Hob
The invisible or ghost dancer, who fills in when we are a dancer down. He is the one we blame when it goes wrong, yet he is indispensable, dependable. He is intuitive and always where he should be. He is non-complaining, indefatigable and doesn't seek glory. He ensures that the dancers are enabled, that the dance is done, and through his presence the standard of the dance is lifted. Named after a kindly spirit of English Folklore.
Spikey
She is nowhere as prickly as her name suggests, but rather a mild mannered dancer of renown and an excellent melodeon player. She has been on the folk dancing scene for many years, yet brings a fresh enthusiasm and vitality to her dancing to the envy of all. Her expertise also helps to flesh out the dances and bring them to performance standard.
