Formed around 1990/91, Stone Monkey Sword Dancers specialise in the Rapper Sword Dance. Although they do not perform a "traditional" dance from one of the original pit villages, they have taken the spirit and energy of the rapper dance, and put together their own set of figures, many of which are their own invention.
Based in Long Eaton, between Nottingham and Derby, Stone Monkey Sword Dancers have strong links with the rapper tradition. Several members of the team were born and brought up in the North East and others have spent many years there. Members of the team have danced with other rapper sides, such as Black Cap, Keele, Leeds Sadler, Newcastle Kingsmen, Sallyport and High Spen Blue Diamonds. The distinctive Stone Monkey style has developed from a fusion (don't you just hate that word?) of these many and varied influences.
The Forefathers of Stone Monkey Circa 1883 ??
