The Mark Jones Day of Dance

This is a special day in January when we hit the streets of East Anglia along with friends and supporters from other dance sides. It used to be called 'Our Day of Dance'. But when one of our dancers was tradgically killed on his way home from a practice session we decided to pay tribute to him and call it 'The Mark Jones Day of Dance'.

It's someting which has been happening for the last ten years and just keeps getting bigger and better (but it's stilll not particularly clever).

The day takes in a variety of venues and has changed from year to year. We've taken in the villages of Brandon Creek, Ely, Little Downham, Welney and most recently Stretham each of which offers up its own stories which relate to the dances we do. This area is where records show Molly dancing has been performed throughout the last century... a kind of historic home to the customs and practice of 'The Ploughboy'

If, like some, you're interested in photos of traditional and contemporary folk dancing DON'T CLICK THIS LINK. If however, you're just one of the many 'Molly Voyeurs' then click on!

Here's some links to photos of the MJDoD...Day of Dance 2004 2007 2008

Here's what people said after the 2008 event

"We were a bit apprehensive when we arrived, being only part Molly dancers surrounded by all these full timers. Once things started though we felt fine and had a thoroughly good time. Most of the feedback I've had from the side was very positive and when I asked what is usually the telling question 'If we get invited again, would you go?' everyone without hesitation or reservation said 'Yes' which over 19 years of the side is probably a first.
Once again, many thanks" - Chris Nikel, Woad Works Morris.

"Thanks for a brilliant day of dance".Bunny Nash ......ox -blood molly

"Hi Just a few words of heartfelt thanks from Ox-Blood.
As we got off the coaches last night, back to the Cutter, the side made sure
I was going to e-mail and thank you and all at 'OW' for another relaxed,
enjoyable, well organised and extremely pleasant day out.
We look forward to an invitation in 2009. Many thanks to you all".
Jools (Ox-Blood gofa)

"Just wanted to say thank you very much for organising a great day of dance for everyone - it went like clockwork!!! Doing these things is a thankless task, I know and requires a lot of effort so good on ya gal! It was great to catch up with everyone and see people I haven't seen in ages. The food was also really good, a nice change from greasy/ carnivorous fodder that you often get. The last pub was great for spreading out in, a good choice. Hope to see you again soon". Love Chris xxx (schwabe)

"Nice to meet you! - a very well organised event - liked the Lazy Otter as a
last venue - was great wondering around with all the different things going
on in different parts of the pub! So - thank you from Black Anis - we had a lovely day". Lynn

"Very many thanks from all the Rhubarb Tarts for inviting us to your Day of
Dance. We all enjoyed it immensely! It was lovely to meet everyone and to
watch so many other sides dance. And a couple of people have mentioned how much they enjoyed the mass dances! And the sessions (at the last pub, especially). And how well organised it was...." Best wishes, Sue.

"Just a quick email to thank you and your side for such an enjoyable day on Saturday. On a very personal note not knowing who helped me occasionally but they all did it without making it obvious probably not just from your side but all the others around. To those I have spoken with from my side - Woadworks - they too seemed to have enjoyed the day and it seems that if we are invited we would certainly do it again. May I wish you and your side a great season of dancing. Take care and happy morrising". Posh Mole (Ken)

"I understand you were heavily involved in the organisation of Ouse Washes Day of Dance. Thank you. I had such a great day. Loads of dancing, lots of good music (it was smashing when you played sax with our guys), good venues and the wallop was very palatable. I really enjoyed watching the other sides, too. If we could do it all again tomorrow I wouldn't hesitate. I'm still buzzing! Thanks again and see you next year". Chris (Good Easter)

"Thank you for an enjoyable day with the Ouse Washes. Good Easter
Molly Dancers enjoyed the day and would like you to pass on our thanks to
all those involved". Geoff

"Thank you for a wonderful weekend, you are all welcome anytime just let me know when. If you have any pictures and would like to send them on, please do so, I will be putting them on our website. I have seen 2 on youtube, they are great. Thanks Again". Steve, The Lazy Otter