Tim Plester, an actor and director known for his work in 'Wolf Hall', joins the conversation as a passionate folknographer. He shares the significance of reviving Morris dancing and how it intertwines with cultural history, particularly during World War I. Tim also discusses the value of archival footage in uncovering rich historical stories and the importance of community in preserving folk customs. The episode highlights an exciting crowdfunding initiative aimed at safeguarding these traditions and the collaboration with the British Library.
The podcast highlights the importance of preserving folk traditions through digital archiving, exemplified by the crowdfunding effort for Doc Rowe's extensive collection.
A personal documentary on Morris dancing reveals the transformative journey of embracing cultural heritage and recognizing its historical significance.
Deep dives
The Weather's Impact on Activities
The discussion opens with reflections on the recent weather, highlighting how it has influenced various outdoor activities. One host shares experiences from a trip to Derbyshire with a group of board game enthusiasts, typically marked by adverse weather conditions. Intriguingly, while previous visits were marred by floods and heavy snow, this time the snowfall occurred just after their departure. Another host recounts attending a football match in challenging conditions but found enjoyment despite the rain, showcasing how weather continues to shape leisure activities.
The Allure and Illusion of Artificial Intelligence
The conversation shifts to the topic of artificial intelligence, where one participant offers a critical view of its current state. They draw a historical parallel between the illusion of AI capabilities and an 18th-century automaton, illustrating how perception can sometimes overshadow reality. This comparison raises questions about the authenticity of AI's intelligence and its potential impact on various industries, especially consulting. The participant emphasizes the need to recognize the limits of AI, suggesting that what appears advanced may just be a sophisticated illusion.
Morris Dancing and Its Historical Roots
A significant part of the podcast delves into a personal documentary about Morris dancing, highlighting the author’s gradual acceptance of this cultural activity. Initially embarrassed by his roots in a village known for its Morris dancing traditions, he later discovers the poignant history of dancers who did not return from World War I. This revelation catalyzed his involvement in the tradition, transforming his perception and leading him to embrace his identity as a Morris dancer. The documentary intertwines this legacy with the revival movement of the 1970s, reconnecting the past with the present in rich, meaningful ways.
Preserving Folklore Through Modern Filmmaking
The podcast also explores the journey of documenting and preserving folk customs through film, focusing on an archive amassed by a folklorist named Doc Rowe. The ongoing project aims to digitize decades of footage documenting various folk traditions, highlighting the fragility of these cultural practices and materials. In a collaborative effort, a crowdfunding initiative successfully raised funds to digitize Doc's extensive collection, underscoring the communal support for preserving cultural heritage. This initiative not only seeks to save the footage but aims to ensure these traditions remain accessible to future generations.
On this week’s show Matt and Lisa are joined by actor, film director and self-proclaimed folknographer Tim Plester to talk about folk traditions, saving archives, and Doctor Who.