Throughout the 20th century, the mask has been developed as an effective tool for performance. Michel St Denis, Jacques Lecoq and John Wright have developed the imagination through different mask styles and traditions with a focus on transformation of the persona. Story living within the framework of an imaginary or alternate world asks the participant to embrace the persona and thematic world of the setting and the emotional levels of the Larp’s levels of energy. This is especially true within historical or fantasy larps where the magical or combat systems of the world, ask one to rise up into a archetype that may not be familiar to the participant. The temperament mask may support finding a means to embody character in a new and rich way. In a workshop using masks I will invite attendees to explore the depth of the temperaments using a special set of masks of based in ancient archetypes of four essential temperaments.
We all have all four within us but usually one predominates and through exercises applying these masks players will become more self-aware, developing flexibility with making choices in how to create and perform different characters. Using these masks, characters can be accessed with great energy and commitment. Understanding your character from within their temperament, based on the “humors” of the Greek scientist Galen, you’ll be initiated into a richer start into your role than the text may give you – through the persona raised from the mask you will form a deeper courage to commit to a given moment with a clearer picture of what you might say or do while in-play.
The Four Temperaments: • CHOLERIC, extroverted, will-oriented people, always striving passionately towards the future and associated with the element of fire. • SANGUINE, flighty, mobile people, with humor and flexibility and a propensity to chaos. This extroverted type, living in the present, is associated with the element of air. • PHLEGMATIC, conservative, and faithful, they can be good followers. These introverted types, living in the present, are associated with the element of water. • MELANCHOLIC, serious, and introspective, living in the past. Associated with the element of earth, the melancholic never forgets.
The masks were created by Mike Chase for training, education, performance, and therapy which are used internationally by theatres and theatre companies including the RSC, the National Theatre, LAMDA, and Trestle theatre. He also developed the application of masks for a therapeutic program for young adults with complex needs.