Greenman an introduction to me.

Welcome to my first utterance on this newly created site. I intend to use it to talk about the Green man in the context of my appearances with the Lions part.  http://www.thelionspart.co.uk/

I have been featuring as part of the seasonal celebrations of the theatre co-operative for 15 years now. The Lions part under the direction of Sonia Ritter created festivals 'Twelfth Night' and 'October Plenty'. The festivals incorporate seasonal festivities that hark back to the distant past, bringing back to the streets of London some of the traditions of bygone days. At the centre of festivals is a play either a Mummers play which draws on 12th century texts or pre-Shakespearean plays which draw on texts from writers on or around the time of Shakespeare. Hans Sacs is a favorite and his play 'The pregnant Farmer' an absolute scream. To learn more about the play go to http://www.thelionspart.co.uk/ .

The festivals also bring in other traditions, in the winter we have the crowning of King Bean and Queen Pea the origins which are lost in the passing of time. we also have a 'kissing wishing tree' where participants tie a ribbon (there wish) on a tree and kiss somebody, another ancient tradition. The Green man was introduced as a symbol of our connection with the earthly spirits and of seasonal renewal. I (as the Green man head up the procession through the stydgeon streets of Southwark as our festival jollities are played out with dancing, singing, the play, the crowning, some wassailing and other lovely activities to bring some magic on to the streets of London.

As the Greenman I have been rowed up the Thames, processed around the streets of Southwark on horse back, been asked to bless the union of a couple recently betrothed to each other, faetured in several books and appeared at the Globe Theatre on numerous occasions. It has been an interesting 15 years for me doffing the mantle of organic greenery at least 3 times a year, it seems to bring joy in to peoples lives and i enjoy it too, so more to follow.