The know-how behind one of North East England’s oldest folk traditions is to be preserved, BBC News reports. Rapper sword dancing grew up in the mining communities of Northumberland and County Durham as far back as the 18th century, with teams of five or more dancers weaving around each other while linked by short, flexible two-handled swords.
Frank Lee, 81, a former dancer and design and technology teacher from Cumbria, is thought to be the last person making the swords. He began in 1977 and is about to complete his 500th set. The dance itself is flourishing, with more teams now than when he started.
Amble-based Dry Water Arts, led by retired professor Trish Winter, will document his craft. The project opens with an exhibition on 15 November and runs until September 2027, with talks, demonstrations, workshops and performances.
Source: BBC News