Masks as a method: Meyerhold to Mnouchkine

Through the mask, the individual has the potential to challenge the understanding of who they are through their body now being separated from the visual identifier of their face. From earliest records of performance, masks have been engaged with as both a performative object and more importantly as a tool for performance skill development. Through looking at the historical context of masks and the application by theatrical practitioners of the last 100 years, this paper argues to the importance of masks as tool for rehearsal and preparation of actors at both tertiary and secondary education levels, to help theatre remain relevant in the twenty-first century performance and entertainment world.