Making Mischief Oral History Project, 'Abbots Bromley Horn Dance' full

London College of Fashion

Michael Fowell has been dancing in the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance since he was 7 years old. He’s now 29 and proud to be involved in a tradition which goes back hundreds of years. In fact, the reindeer horns worn by the performers (which hang on the wall of St Nicholas’ church in Abbots Bromley for the rest of the year) are more than 1000 years old. The dancers consist of six deer men, a Fool, hobby horse, bowman and Maid Marian. They perform all around the neighbourhood covering about 10 miles during the day. Michael's family has been involved for generations. He carries the No 4 horn which is the lightest one.