Dressed their distinctive straw head-dresses they recreated the mumming tradition that many of these elderly people would have remembered from their own childhoods. In turn the simple act of calling to the house provided a much appreciated break from the social isolation experienced by many of those visited.

The cocooners were identified in collaboration with Meals on Wheels services and the whole project was part of research programme looking at the broader theme of mumming as cultural heritage and its relevance today.

While this was an important part of the project; it was joy and social contact that has proved to be the most rewarding aspect of the work of these Modern Day Mummers. Rural isolation is not a new problem in Ireland but it has been made more acute by the current pandemic and as such Creative Ireland is delighted to partner with Leitrim County Council to support the well-being of some of our most vulnerable citizens.

This amazing project will continue until the end of year reaching different locations around Leitrim.