Taddiport’s ninth annual Leper Festival – the fun celebration of Taddiport’s 14th century leper colony – which raises money for LEPRA charity – is marching through the streets with a tochlit parade from 8pm on Saturday, March 6.
The parade, led by Town Crier Al Mitchell, sees the modern-day lepers driven over Taddiport bridge to the chapel of St Mary Magdeleine – a leper hospital during the 14th century – with a historic racket of clappers, bells and drums (bring your own or borrow some).
The chapel will be opened by the Reverend Hummerstone on the evening for everyone to see where the lepers were treated. Period-style mulled wine will then be served, followed by street performers.
Artist Shan Miller, who organises the Leper Parade, said the event revives the memory of the 14th century leper colony based there.
Shan told the PRSD: ‘If you would like to take part in the parade itself, leper fancy dress will be required. This can be simple peasant-wear, or something imaginative and elaborate. If you turn up an hour early, you can even have leper-spots applied!’
A Beggars Banquet (14th century barbecue) will be served in a marquee, and to keep die-hard lepers rocking through the night, entertainment will continue with indie band The Dead Betas supporting The Fabulous Beaver Brothers’, chill-out band Lion Star and DJ Stevo.
Collections will be made throughout the event for registered charity LEPRA, whose work includes relief for leprosy sufferers worldwide.
To take a look at previous festivals, and to get an idea for your own costume, pop along to the Leper Festival website.
• Some see diversity as a disease – discuss. Comments below, please
Come and enjoy Devon – book a hotel and get away!
Related posts:
- Taddiport celebrates its outcast history at the 10th annual Leper Festival The Devon Town of Taddiport was once a leper colony,...
- Leper festival at Taddiport posted by Cptn Leper colonies have a bad press, but...
- Social lepers Our friends up in Taddiport are indulging in their...
