Classroom Workshops & Visits

Workshop Goals:

• Broadening Physical Expression: Actors learn to communicate effectively through physical choices, which can lead to more nuanced and expressive performances.

• Deepening Connection to Character: Mask improvisation allows actors to access a deeper level of connection with character by focusing on the body's response and imagination.

• Overcoming Self-Consciousness: By concealing the face, the mask liberates actors from self-consciousness, encouraging authentic and unfiltered expression.

• Developing Imagination and Spontaneity: Through the use of masks, actors are encouraged to tap into their creativity and spontaneity in performance.

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Workshop Structure:

1. The Neutral Mask: The workshop begins with the Neutral Mask, a foundational practice based on the collaborative work of Jacques Le Coq and Amleto Sartori. The Neutral Mask helps actors achieve a state of discovery and openness, facilitating their ability to engage with the surrounding space. The focus on balance and economy of movement allows the actor to experience a state of perfect equilibrium, which serves as a strong foundation for later character work. The Neutral Mask helps actors find a stable, centered position for free expression, laying the groundwork for future exploration of character imbalances and conflict.

2. Larval Masks: Following the Neutral Mask, students progress to working with Larval masks. These masks, characterized by their simplicity and pronounced architectural movements, enable actors to explore the roots of character creation. The Larval masks encourage full physical expressiveness, pushing actors to the extremes of body movement and allowing the mask to guide their actions naturally into embodying character.