GRADE 8. INTRODUCTION TO MASK AND MASK USE.

The one period session comprised an introduction to mask; examples of
masks from around the world, as well as my own; guidelines for mask use and
a short demonstration.

Then an opportunity for students to choose from masks I brought and work with
them. I guided them through a number of movement exercises. Those who were
willing then performed a short, silent scene for the rest of us.

The session concluded with my telling a story in mask.

Although time was short, many students commented on the power that
their mask had to transform them. They said they felt 'different', 'free',
'uninhibited', 'light', 'heavy, sad' … Students normally known to be very shy
and sometimes difficult just shone when it came to mask use - what more
can I ask for!