Mummering on Trial: Custom and Controversy
Date: Dec 7
2:30 pm
- 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Mummers Festival
In the 1800s, mummers in Newfoundland had a reputation for rowdy and violent behaviour that threw the custom into controversy. Local men regularly appeared in court accused of committing assaults and other offences while disguised as mummers. Commentators hotly debated the custom’s role in society, how it influenced Newfoundland’s reputation in the world, and what should be done about it—the kind of questions that still spark discussion around mummering today!
The Rooms Provincial Archives holds records of more than 30 criminal cases involving mummers, most dating from the 1830s to the 1870s. In this presentation, Joy Fraser explores the stories they tell about the custom and the controversy it created.
This is a free event but a ticket is required. Please reserve your free ticket online or by calling (709)757-8090.
This program is in collaboration with The Mummer’s Festival.
Events & Programs
Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Come and make a unique card for mom and other special people in your life.
Step into a world of family fun at The Rooms! Experience an afternoon filled with creativity and connection for the family. Unleash your creativity, create memories, and relish quality family time with us!
Included in the cost of admission. Free for Rooms members.
Treat mom or a special mother-figure in your life to a special one-hour performance by guest artists, Jackie Sullivan and Crystal McCarthy.
Award-winning singer songwriter, Jackie Sullivan hails from the musically rich Southern Shore. Join us as Jackie will surely entertain you with songs, stories and adventures!
You will be treated to hand served coffee and tea along with a delicious scone, thick cream and jam – all in a setting with a stunning view overlooking the Narrows.
The program also includes admission to the galleries and a special take away treat.
Cost: 40$ per person plus HST. 10% discount for Rooms members.
Advanced tickets are required. Please contact Visitor Services at 709-757-8090 to reserve your seats. Please include the number of people in your party at the time of booking. Limited Seating.
Please note this program accommodates communal seating only.
Doors open at 1:45 pm.
Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador
Stroll across land and sea, and through time, to meet the peoples who have made Newfoundland and Labrador home for the past 9,000 years.
Tour is approximately 30 – 40 minutes and included in the cost of admission.