@ummuani
In theater, masks can also:
- Conceal the actor's identity, allowing them to play multiple roles
- Exaggerate emotions, making them visible from a distance
- Create a sense of mystery or anonymity
- Represent different personalities or traits, like good vs. evil
- Symbolize transformation, as actors change masks to change characters
- Add a level of abstraction, highlighting the performance aspect
Masks have been used in various theater forms, including Greek tragedy, Commedia dell'Arte, and Japanese Noh theater. They continue to be a powerful tool in modern theater, dance, and performance art.