Masktheatre
Process
Duration: 2 x 5 days
(5 days mask making; 3-5 days staging the mask).
The number of hours would be 3-4 lessons (45 min) per day, depending on the possibilities, joint solutions can be found.
Number of students: 6-15
​
BLOCK 1 We deal with the construction of a mask. For this we make a negative out of clay. We then use papier-mâché to create the actual mask. We use a certain selection of colours to give the mask a human-like appearance. This process is accompanied by the first exercises in mask play.
BLOCK 2 We finish the final steps of mask making and develop the appropriate characters for the masks. They are given costumes and can interact with each other. We create a story based on the characters in which the characters appear with their themes. Depending on the artists' ideas, the way is open for a collage-like form or even joint scenes. Through our artistic impulses, we provide a clear framework for this free creation process.
Objective
To promote non-verbal, physical expression and creativity; to familiarise participants with mask theatre and the basic elements of mask making; to promote self-efficacy; to strengthen their own resources
Mask theatre has a fascinating effect on the development of children and young people in many ways. The use of masks gives them the opportunity to slip into other roles and take on new identities.
An important developmental psychological effect of mask theatre is the promotion of social and emotional skills. By transforming themselves into different masks and characters, children learn to express and understand different emotions. They can put themselves in other people's shoes and develop empathic understanding. This contributes to the development of their emotional intelligence.
In addition, mask theatre provides a safe environment in which children can express their fears and insecurities. By hiding their own identities, they may feel braver and freer to show their feelings and thoughts. This can boost their self-confidence and help them to deal with their personal challenges. What emerges is a lively dialogue between player and mask.
In addition, mask theatre also promotes children's cognitive development. By playing different roles, they have to focus on different character traits, motivations and actions. This challenges their ability to think, as they have to understand and interpret complex relationships.
In summary, it can be said that mask theatre has a variety of developmental psychological effects. It promotes social and emotional competence, strengthens self-confidence, improves language skills and challenges cognitive development. The playful nature of mask theatre allows children and young people to develop their creative abilities and learn important life skills.
