Full Description
Here, in pictures and words, is the life of the Mummers: the bands, the costumes, and the people who dance, perform, and live their lives through their brigades every day of the year. Acclaimed photographer E. A. Kennedy has captured the way Mummery continues its hold on the imagination of Philadelphia, how this tradition has its roots in the city's unique development first as a Swedish, then British city, and the traits Mummery shares with other parade tradtions in the US. Most importantly, Kennedy captures the joy of brigades preparing for the big parade down Broad Street: the practices under the I-95 overpass; the rehearsals and fittings of costumes. Throughout, Kennedy reveals the essence of Mummery and this rich album will make for an indispensable gift for all fans of the Mummers in the city and around the country.
Contents
Preface
Introduction
Mummers
Clubhouses
Comics
Wenches
Fancies
String Bands
Fancy Brigades
Family
Tradition
Mummers Mass
Prep
Party
Parade
2 Street
Bragging Rights
Enders
