Faustwork

Mask Theater

The Mask Messenger

                  
            

 

THE MASK MESSENGER is an engaging mix of monologue, physical comedy, and theatre, a tour de force solo performance that explores the artistic, cultural, and psychological use of masks throughout history.

This menagerie of nearly twenty characters, at times outlandish, at times tender, cuts to heart of human matters, and leaves audiences learning, laughing, and crying. In vignettes ranging from comic to poignant to bizarre, this performance expands the idea of the mask to include body language, makeup, clothing, and the many faces we all wear daily.

Included are oversized silent masks, half-masked characters that speak, and crawling creatures in masks worn on top of the head. There is quick-change artistry, an occasional celebrity appearance, and physical distortions that baffle the eye and tickle some sort of primal funny bone. Throughout the performance, audience members are surprised and delighted by the extent to which they become a vital part of the show.

Since 1983, Faustwork company members have performed over 3500 shows in theatres, festivals, and schools in 48 US states, Canada, Australia, and Hong Kong.

Stephen La Frenie joined the touring company in Aug. 2002.

 

 

"These creations tickle some sort of primal funny bone... deftly walking the line between adult and children's entertainment so that both are entertained."
  The New York Times

 

"...inventive, magical, never less than completely absorbing."
  TheToronto Star
 

 

 

 

 

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