Physical Theatre and Mask

It is more than simply abstract movement – to convey real meaning it must include a strong element of character, narrative, relationship, storytelling and interaction between performers.

The method of performance as we understand it now has grown from a variety of origins including France and Eastern Europe, including a wide range of styles and approaches, for example contemporary dance, movement, clowning, puppetry, mime, mask, vaudeville, and even circus.

Much of this work is devised and not scripted. Unlike mask which is performed in silence, this form of dramatization can be combined with sound and even words. Here the aim is to make the body speak as eloquently as the voice, and one of the great strengths of this form is that it can often mine the emotions that fall into the silences between words.

We also teach mask work because the ability to self-express behind the 'safety' of the mask can provide an enormous support for learning, particularly with those children who do not excel academically, or for those who have English as a second language.

With pupils such as these, the techniques provide a springboard to creativity without the barrier that language or subject matter can pose and a forum for confidence building for those children who are, in any way, struggling at school.

Gifted and talented pupils will also achieve a great deal from these workshops as they challenge their creativity, encouraging new outlets of expression and exploring a new medium for communication and storytelling.

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Email: nicola.caboodle@xln.co.uk

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