Sadly, no scripts or performance notes survive from that era; however, the earliest evidence we do have is from the mid 18th century. And, it is from this time that most Mumming scripts originate.

As you watch, a play will include symbolic elements of combat, death and resurrection. This concept is to celebrate the end of the old year and birth of the New-Year. However, not all plays are the same. Hidden in plain sight are the words which can and do differ according to where the play originates.

Some that Ditchling Mummers perform are from West Wittering, Horsham or Steyning - each with its own slight variation in verse. However, you will see that most of the main characters stay the same. Such as: St. George (sometimes called King George), The Doctor, Father Christmas, Prince of Peace, The Turkish Knight and The Noble Captain.