Articles of Association
Articles of Association
Morris Dancing in New Zealand
Background
Morris Dancing is traditional English folk dancing usually accompanied by music. It is based on rhythmic stepping and the execution of choreographed figures by a group of dancers, usually wearing bell pads on their shins. Implements such as sticks, swords and handkerchiefs may also be wielded by the dancers. Although its roots are unknown it can be traced back to the 13th century.
In New Zealand Morris Dancing is organised by various sides based all over the country. Each side is an independent entity and organises its own activities and funds.
Morris Dancing in New Zealand (The Association) is an association of New Zealand Morris sides and Morris Dancers from other parts of the world whilst performing in New Zealand
Objectives
It exists to:
1. Foster and promote Morris Dancing throughout the country by the organisation of the Annual New Zealand Morris Tour (The Tour). The Tour occurs each year and is organised by a different side each year. It is located in a different venue selected by the organising side. It is attended by dancers, musicians, and supporters from around the country and across the world.
2. Facilitate public liability insurance for Morris Dancing in New Zealand (The Association) members, including organisers, dancers and musicians.
Membership
Membership of the Association is automatically granted to any member of a New Zealand Morris side and to any person registering to attend the annual Morris Tour including overseas registrations. This includes dancers, musicians, and supporters.
No fee is charged for membership.
Officers
The Association has the following officers:
Squire - Arranges, with assistance from the local side, the annual Morris Tour, and
- Presides over the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in conjunction with the Tour.
Bagman - Manages the finances associated with the operation of the Tour.
These Officers are elected annually at the AGM and are responsible for the organisation and operation of the following year’s Tour. Officers will usually be members of the side chosen to hold the next Tour.
Newsletter Editor - Manages the production of the Associations quarterly newsletter “The Sphere”. Operational costs for the production of the newsletter are managed directly by the Editor and consist of an annual fee payable by each individual requesting a copy.
Finances
The Association operates a current account for the purposes of funding the Tour. Income is limited to payments from members for attendance at the Tour. Expenditure is limited to the payment of expenses incurred in running the Tour and payment of insurance premium.
The bank account is currently held with the ANZ Bank. For security purposes three signatories are recorded, with any two required to approve a payment. Signatories are reviewed and amended as required at the AGM.
Insurance
The Association shall hold Management Liability Insurance to indemnify the Officers and Members in the event of a claim being made against them. Proof of such insurance is being requested more and more by Councils and other organisations allowing Morris Dancing events in their space. This insurance is intended to cover the Tour and all other Morris events organised by the New Zealand sides occurring in New Zealand.
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