Waymakers Performers

Barry Evans

Waymakers Performers made an impression at the Theatrical Masks Deep Dive today. It was a huge success and what a privilege it was to create scenes and characters with such sensitive and instinctive performers. 

We started with completely blank white masks and discussed the effects that seeing a face with no features has on an audience.  According to our actual audience it was quite a substantial one with 'creepy', 'disconcerting' and 'wow' being just some of the reactions! 

Later on, the performers created new masks but this time with specific expressions and ended up, magically, creating whole characters and interactions based just on these expressions. Using body language, mime and real emotional connection the performers did an amazing job. It always gives me great pleasure and pride to feel that rush of excitement an audience has when they feel the effect of thoughtful and emotional performances and today there were a number of moments like that. 

​Well done to everyone who came along and got stuck in - you should feel very proud of yourselves.