MASK THEATER (grades 1-12)

In this residency, the class learns about the cultural history of masks, their significance in performance and together creates and performs a group theatre piece. Artistic techniques such as movement with masks and mimetic-movement skills are taught, as well any of a variety of masked theater traditions [Commedia D’ell Arte, African Dance, Native American Religious] amongst others. The course goes into detail about the use of masks in different cultural festivals -such as The Day of the Dead, Carnivale, Venetian masked balls, and Spanish ritual processions.

The student is exposed to the cultural and social nuances of the mask. Masks that hide identity. Masks that create identity. Masks that physically protect the wearer.

The program usually ends with a shared performance.