Mask Work
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I studied masks at The Juilliard School with the mask master Pierre Lefreve. It was one of the most powerful classes I took and greatly influenced my work.
Upon graduation, I managed to acquire a copy of these masks that were specifically designed for actor training at Juilliard. Since then I have had the joy of sharing them and teaching classes with students and teachers all over the country. It is thrilling to watch the transformation that occurs when one is masked. I work with a wide range of masks, including character, neutral and clown. The goal is always to empower the actor to work unmasked. The mask becomes a permission giver allowing the actor access to new areas of his creativity and imagination. The body and voice are engaged in new ways, and improvisation becomes effortless as the “actor” is removed from the scene and the mask takes over. Masking demands the actor to engage physically, vocally and spiritually. The actor is covered to uncover. Mask work is a powerful tool for the actor to rediscover instinct. Nothing will reveal to an actor his limitations and his strengths more assuredly than wearing the mask. The actor’s desire to transform is fully realized in the mask. |
Mask class with Kathleen is an incredibly enlightening and rewarding experience. From neutral mask to clown work, I developed a deeper understanding of my instrument, my range as a performer, and my ability to transform as an actor. |
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I learnt more about myself through my mask experience. Physically and emotionally! |
