This is my third year in Philly. But it’s the first time I’ve been in the city for New Years Day, and the first time I’ve experienced the phenomenon of the Mummer’s Parade. It is somehow simultaneously heartwarming and debauchery-tinged, combined with insane production values that confuse the hell out of me as a theatre professional.
None of these people are performers - a lot seem to be teachers, blue collar workers, etc. It’s a mix of all ages, everyone from grandparents who have been performing for sixty years to babes in arms. They’re all dancing/playing instruments/performing their hearts out, and it’s visually stunning. And it’s so goddamn mind blowing to me that this is a thing that thousands of Philadelphians participate in every year. And produce new costumes, new sets, and new choreography every year. It’s unbelievable.
And, of course, mixed with the fantastic production values is the men of the Wenches Brigades, who stumble down Broad Street bouncing their tiny parasols and day drinking, and are the reason I went home early instead of staying for the String Bands. But I digress. Watching the performances on TV... I’m amazed.
Look at the level of detail. Look at the precision.
Look at these men commited to being skeleton pirates.
Look at this Mad Hatter on acid.
I want to know who the hell designs these costumes, and who the hell builds them. And where can I sign up to slap a load of sequins and feathers on a porportionally-insane costume and call it a success.