Faustwork Theater shows power of masks

Friday, March 28, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

Featured will be "The Mask Messengers," a duo performance with and about masks, which the group has performed more than 1,000 times throughout the United States and Canada.

After beginning with a brief mock-lecture about the myriad uses of masks throughout the world, the performers will demonstrate the powers of a wide variety of masks by assuming the characters expressed in each. The resulting vignettes range from the comic to the poignant to the bizarre, enhanced by body language and humor.

Full masks are worn on top of the head or on the back of the head, transforming the performer into creatures on all fours and creating distortions. Each vignette involves lively interaction with the audience and, at one point, two volunteers don masks and join in the fray.

"The Mask Messengers" offers new insights into the artistic psychological and historical aspects of the mask. Through the parade of 24 characters, the audience glimpses some of the funniest and most poignant qualities of human nature.

The Winchester performance is presented by the Clark County Department of Parks and Recreation's Cultural Affairs Division. Additional funding has been provided by a grant from the Nevada State Council on the Arts, a state agency.

Tickets are $7, $5 for seniors and students under 18. Winchester Center is at 3130 S. McLeod Drive, just north of Desert Inn Road.

For more information, call 455-7340.