Mask Characterization

Book excerpt: Behind the mask, Appel notes, the stu­dent is free to create a personality; paradox­ically, because the mask hides the self, it en­ables the student to probe more deeply into himself. "This book describes, defines, and dis­cusses the mask characterization process, providing the theory behind the exercises and the step-by-step procedure in the organ­ic development of the character from the masks," Appel notes. The manual is divided into two parts: "The Instructor's Guide" and "The Actor's Guide." There is also an intro­ductory chapter, "The Class Structure," which explains mask characterization pro­cedures in the classroom, and a sample class schedule may be found in the back of the manual. This book adds a new dimension to actor training and learning. It is essential to aspir­ing actors seeking new ways to create honest dramatic characterizations.