Mummers string band performed inside Longport's commission chambers for residents of all ages.
By BROOKE FELDMAN
LONGPORT The Mummers visited Longport Saturday night for an evening of music, laughter and lots of dance moves.
The Longport Historical Society hosted the event in an effort to bring summer residents and full-time residents together.
We thought to bring the Mummers to Longport because of our closeness to Philadelphia and so many Philadelphians who come for summer in Longport, said Ellen Cohen, vice president of the Longport Historical Society. Everybody knows and loves the Mummers.
Irene and Bob Morris recently moved to Longport from Philadelphia for the summer.
When you're a Philly girl, the Mummers are in your blood, Morris said. Anytime we know they are playing, we always go.
Members of the string band cracking jokes and getting ready to perform.
The Mummers string band played classics from You Are My Sunshine to When the Saints Go Marching In. The saxophone, banjo and accordion were some of the many instruments the audience enjoyed. Residents could not get enough of the Mummers' jokes and elaborate costumes, some of the many distinct trademarks of the timeless performers.
You just can't help but have fun, said Lee Karlock, president of the Longport Historical Society, while dancing to the music.
Last night was not the first time the Mummers journeyed to Longport from Philadelphia. The Longport Historical Society hosted the string band in 2019, with a goal to make it an annual event.
The 2020 concert was cancelled due to COVID-19, while last night's rain almost disrupted the outdoor concert once again. Scott Porter, Longport's municipal administrator, quickly arranged for the show to take place inside the commission chambers.
Residents adapted and did not let the change of plans stop their enjoyment.
Mummer interacting with the audience mid-performance.
I was walking around and saw the sign for the concert outside, said resident Susan Cicione, who decided to join the fun. I think it is nice that the community is doing something like this.
Longport residents brought their grandchildren to experience the Mummers for the first time, while long-time fans relished every minute.
The goal is just to bring the town together, Cohen said. That was always the focus of the historical society-to maintain and present the history, to continue the history and to bring people together.
Karlock, who was dancing the whole night, could not agree more about providing an opportunity to allow the town to come as one.
It's an old Longport tradition, Karlock said.
