Mummering

Viewed a show called /*Mummers and Masks*/ which aired on Canada's
Vision TV at 11PM. Mummers plays often feature the story of St. George
and the Dragon". and mumming traditions were already old in Richard's
day. They were also ubiquitous. The mummers traditions began to die out
at the advent of the industrial revolution, but have made a remarkable
return in some areas over the past century or so. They had to do with
the death of the old year and the birth of the new.

Our pagan roots are not too far below the surface. They were likely more
visible in Richard's day. In some cases ancient festivals were aided and
abetted by the Church. They were a way for people to blow off steam.
Here's a link to the show. It was quite well done.
http://www.thesocialedge.com/archives/other/2artsandculture-dec2002.htm