Mask-Making

Ancient Greek theater was performed for thousands of people, without the microphones, screens, and speakers that we have today. Actors had to be loud and expressive for audiences of thousands of people.

The two most popular genres of Greek theater were comedy and tragedy. To indicate these genres to their audience,  Greek dramatic masks would show exaggerated sadness or happiness. We still use these symbols today to represent theater or the dramatic arts.

Procedures:

At this station, students will make a paper mask representing an exaggerated character from Greek mythology or emotion. The goal is to make a mask that people can see from far away!

Using a paper mask base and air dry clay, students will create the facial features of their masks. These pieces can be attached to the mask base with tape or hot glue. Students can add color to their masks using permanent marker or tempera paints.

If your space allows, you can even watch some ancient Greek theater while you work! Check out this production of Euripides Herakles from Barnard College - presented in the original ancient Greek!

https://youtu.be/gM4sYJ7hdqg?feature=shared