THE ancient tradition of the Mummers' Play is being revived in the Vale this Christmas.

Mumming, an ancient tradition popular with Henry VIII, is the theatrical equivalent of the Morris Dance and a group based at Evesham Arts Centre are planning to tour local hostelries with their version.

The Red-Light Company, who toured the Vale this summer with the play Rites, have a cast of seven who are offering to visit pubs and clubs to give a performance which they say can be done in almost any space.

"It's guaranteed to raise spirits, the odd chuckle, and a rousing chorus, and the Mummers take up no more than 15 minutes of your time," said spokeswoman Kim Davies.

Traditionally, the heavily-disguised Mummers would tour their local area in the Christmas period, bringing their lively folk entertainment to the great houses and inns.

Every part of the country had its own localised version of the Mummers' Play, which always featured a Christmas character, a St George figure and a quack doctor who brings the wounded knight or dragon back to life.

Performances would end with a song or dance and a collection for the hearty performers.

In this version St George leads the England cricket team in an all-out war against the Aussie Slasher. And another Ozzy, Osbourne, makes his appearance as the Prince of Bleeping Darkness.

Add a politically correct Mother Christmas, a partially-sighted doctor and a dippy but delightful nurse, and the stage is set for a modern version of a timeless rural classic.

For more information contact Kayelle Productions on 01386 871583 or info@kayelle.co.uk. Performances will be available on December 21 to 23 and the cost is £30 plus whip-round.