Sponsors of the VirtuAle

The first recorded ales were held by parish churches as fundraisers. In the 16th century the church would commission the brewing of an ale and the baking of cakes, acquire the costumes and bells for the morris dancers, and host the celebration. Other May celebrations with morris were sponsored directly by the Tudor monarchs.

After the restoration of Charles II, whose birthday was Whit Monday, the celebration of Whitsun Ales was commonplace. They resembled a modern county fair, with morris dancing being one of many diversions. These ales were held under the patronage of local landlords.

Today's morris dancers continue to appreciate the patronage of their community. The VirtuAle will print 3000 flyers describing the event and naming the sponsors. These will be distributed by the dancers as they tour the county performing their art.

For the first time ever, the VirtuAle will also place the names and logos of its sponsors onto the World Wide Web.

Contacts for more information

Seabright Morris and Sword is a non-profit organization under the auspices of the Bay Area Country Dance Society (BACDS).