The origins of Sword Dances can be traced back to the 15th century when they were first described in Scandinavia. Certainly performances were taking place locally from 1820, and in 1886 the Dance team performed at the Ripon Millenary Pageant held at Fountains Abbey. Dances in Kirkby were given annually between Christmas Eve and New Year, starting at the Market Cross and visiting local villages.

Eight performers take part in the dances, the Captain, the Fool and six dancers. These are accompanied by musicians which may be either a drum and violin or an accordian. Originally a song sung by the Captain proceeds the dance whilst the fool organises the spectators and collects donations. The dance itself should be performed smoothly whilst the dancers are linked together by grasping the hilt and point of each sword. Finally, the swords are securely meshed together in the form of a six-pointed star called the Lock.

This ancient tradition has been revived and can be seen in Kirkby Malzeard several times each year. The Highside Longsword Dancers have been dancing in the village on Boxing Day since 1987, and also at the St. Andrews Church plough blessing service. All the members of Highside Longsword live within a few miles of Kirkby Malzeard.

To contact Highside Longsword Dancers please visit our related sites page.

Claro Morrismen also visit Kirkby Malzeard, usually on May Day when they dance near the Butter Cross.

The tradition of sword dancing has also been remembered by the Kirkby Malzeard Millennium Committee, who use the swords and market cross as a 'logo' for Kirkby Malzeard.

If you have any information or photos we can add to these pages please contact kirkbymalzeard@hotmail.com. We plan to add anecdotal history given by local residents, so if you have any interesting or amusing memories of life in this area please let us know.