Chris Walshaw
Fri, 25 Aug 2000 00:22:12 -0700
On Thu, Aug 24, 2000 at 02:46:04PM -0400, Bruce Olson wrote:
> RE: In a history of the English stage I saw that a stage piece "Jack on
> the Green" was attributed to a Mr. Birkhead. No music was given, or copy
> of the tune referenced, but many copies of a tune of this title are
> known (Jack on/in/of the Green). Can anyone confirm that this is the
> origin of "John of the Greeny Cheshire way?
>
A "Jack in the Green" is figure who takes part in English Mayday
celebrations. Looks a bit like a walking bush, often accompanied by the
Queen of the May, Robin Hood, Maid Marian and others. I've no idea how old
these traditions are but I rather imagine that the stage piece was named
after the Mayday character rather than the other way around.
Regards,
Chris Walshaw
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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