Synopsis
Masks, Music & Mischief: The Global Tale of Mummering by Jeff Peddle is an engaging exploration of the rich and diverse tradition of mummering, a practice involving disguise, music, and playful mischief that spans continents and centuries.
The book traces the origins of mummering from its European roots in England, Ireland, and Germany to its evolution in Newfoundland, the Caribbean, and Philadelphia.
Peddle illuminates how this tradition has been both a form of joyful cultural celebration and a vehicle for subtle protest and social resistance. Through colourful storytelling and vivid description, the author details the various regional expressions of mummering: from the snow-covered kitchens of Newfoundland with their flour-covered faces and homemade costumes, to the vibrant, drum-driven Jonkonnu dances of Jamaica, and the grand, sequined parades of Philadelphia’s mummers.
The narrative reveals mummering’s survival through the periods of suppression and decline, highlighting revivals sparked by music, community pride, and cultural identity. Peddle also examines the symbolic power of masks as a means to reveal hidden truths, foster community connection, and challenge authority safely. In addition to chronicling the history and variations of mummering, the book celebrates the modern resurgence of the tradition as artists, educators, and communities worldwide adapt it for new generations. It invites readers into the joyful chaos and deep meaning behind this ancient ritual, emphasizing its ongoing relevance as a vibrant cultural expression of resilience, identity, and human connection.
About the Author
Jeff Peddle was born and raised in Newfoundland, where the sea shaped his soul and stories came with every tide. A former bouncer on George Street and a lifelong Rum collector & former politician & Storyteller of local legends, Jeff is known for capturing the humour, grit, and history of outport life like no one else.Jeff is the author of many books including: Rum 101 for Dummies Like Me, Rum 101 for Dummies Like Me Volume 2, Masks, Music & Mischief: The Global Tale of Mummering, and When America Landed-a compelling look at the U.S. military's impact on Newfoundland during World War II. In Dildo and the Whale, Jeff blends his passion for storytelling, rum, and real Newfoundland culture into a heartfelt tribute to a place and people who continue to evolve with the sea.Today, Jeff continues to write, consult, travel, and raise a glass to the Rock that raised him.
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