These plays are a traditional entertainment found mainly in Great Britain, but also in many parts of the English-speaking world. Although the name has existed for many hundreds of years, the plays existing today date from no earlier than the 18th century. They are performed at special times of the year, such as Christmas and Easter. The alternative name of Guisers is sometimes used when the players wear masks or blacken their faces to hide their real identity. The players go from house to house, or inn to inn, and perform for money. The collection was formerly kept by the Mummers themselves, but nowadays is usually given to charity.
There are many different Mummers Plays, but the characters and themes are nearly always the same. Battles between Good and Evil are fought out in a basically comic fashion, with characters such as St. George, The Dragon (not as common as some other aspects), the Damsel in Distress, a Turkish Knight, the King of Egypt, and a Doctor who is able to resurrect slain participants. Other parts appear for beggars, devils and soldiers, depending on the particular version used. The whole performance is controlled (if that is the right word) by The Fool, who bears comparison with the ring-master in a circus.
The basis for this presentation is the script of the The Carrington Moss Mummers´ Play that was performed in Derbyshire (East Midlands of England) in 2007, adapted, as they always are, to fit the place of performance.