Théâtre du Soleil, a groundbreaking and internationally recognized French theatre collective, will teach 35 aspiring and professional actors the fascinating art of mask work using masks from the Balinese dance theatre and the Italian Commedia dell'arte traditions. The workshop, taught by Duccio Bellugi-Vannuccini of the Théâtre du Soleil, will take place in Roosevelt Hall, Room 307 and will feature improvisation scenarios with 30 hauntingly detailed masks-made by master craftsmen-and the use of music in improvisation.

Hosted and organized by Brooklyn College, this is the Théâtre du Soleil's first workshop in New York City. Directed by Ariane Mnouchkine, the craft of the Théâtre du Soleil rests on experience in improvisation and mask work. Skill in improvisation allows actors to learn to create in the moment and to develop new work in rehearsal. The mask work teaches actors theatricality and strong physical expression on the stage.

In total, the Théâtre du Soleil will teach three workshops throughout the week at Brooklyn College. Two will focus on the masks and the other will teach improvisation using the text of Shakespeare's Macbeth and Twelfth Night.

Monday, July 13, 2009; 1:30 - 3:00 PM at Brooklyn College

Brooklyn College, Roosevelt Hall, Room 307 (2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn)

http://www.brooklyn.cuny.edu/pub/

Photo courtesy of www.masksandpuppets.com.au.