Puppetry/Mask Theatre

The use of masking in the telling of stories, which began in ancient times in most if not all societies, continues to this day in theatrical performances. Emanating from rituals presenting myths and legends, very often, in the theatrical context, they are meant to convey the characteristics of individuals or groups, or hide their identities. Theatrical 'masques' which originated in France, became grand performances in the English court in which women, unable to perform on public stages, participated with their faces covered.