Modernist Disguise: Masquerade in Modern Performance and Visual Culture

The book explores masquerade as a unique performance genre that combines elements from carnivalesque, circus, dance, gestural theater, and theater of objects.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This captivating book delves into the fascinating realm of masquerade, revealing it as a distinct and captivating performance genre that seamlessly blends elements from various artistic traditions, including carnivalesque, circus, dance, gestural theatre, and theatre of objects. It explores the rich tapestry of masquerade, showcasing its unique ability to captivate audiences and transport them to a world of mystery, intrigue, and revelry.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of masquerade, tracing its origins back to ancient times when it was used as a means of masking and disguising oneself. It explores the various cultural and social contexts in which masquerade has flourished, from medieval Europe to contemporary times, highlighting its enduring appeal and adaptability.

One of the key aspects of masquerade is its ability to create a sense of ambiguity and mystery. Masks, costumes, and props are used to obscure identities, allowing participants to explore new roles and identities. This blurs the boundaries between the performer and the audience, creating a dynamic and interactive experience that encourages contemplation and interpretation.

The book also delves into the technical aspects of masquerade performance, exploring the use of lighting, sound, and stage design to enhance the overall experience. It discusses the importance of gesture, movement, and body language in conveying emotions and creating characters, highlighting the skilled craftsmanship and creativity that go into creating a successful masquerade.

Furthermore, the book explores the social and political implications of masquerade, examining how it has been used as a tool for protest, resistance, and social commentary. It discusses the ways in which masquerade can challenge traditional power structures and promote inclusivity and diversity, highlighting its potential as a catalyst for social change.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of masquerade as a performance genre. It provides a deep understanding of its historical, cultural, and social significance, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences and inspire creativity. Whether you are an artist, performer, or simply a curious reader, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to appreciate the beauty and complexity of masquerade.

The book delves into the captivating realm of masquerade, revealing it as a distinct and captivating performance genre that seamlessly blends elements from various artistic traditions, including carnivalesque, circus, dance, gestural theatre, and theatre of objects. It explores the rich tapestry of masquerade, showcasing its unique ability to captivate audiences and transport them to a world of mystery, intrigue, and revelry.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of masquerade, tracing its origins back to ancient times when it was used as a means of masking and disguising oneself. It explores the various cultural and social contexts in which masquerade has flourished, from medieval Europe to contemporary times, highlighting its enduring appeal and adaptability.

One of the key aspects of masquerade is its ability to create a sense of ambiguity and mystery. Masks, costumes, and props are used to obscure identities, allowing participants to explore new roles and identities. This blurs the boundaries between the performer and the audience, creating a dynamic and interactive experience that encourages contemplation and interpretation.

The book also delves into the technical aspects of masquerade performance, exploring the use of lighting, sound, and stage design to enhance the overall experience. It discusses the importance of gesture, movement, and body language in conveying emotions and creating characters, highlighting the skilled craftsmanship and creativity that go into creating a successful masquerade.

Furthermore, the book explores the social and political implications of masquerade, examining how it has been used as a tool for protest, resistance, and social commentary. It discusses the ways in which masquerade can challenge traditional power structures and promote inclusivity and diversity, highlighting its potential as a catalyst for social change.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of masquerade as a performance genre. It provides a deep understanding of its historical, cultural, and social significance, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences and inspire creativity. Whether you are an artist, performer, or simply a curious reader, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to appreciate the beauty and complexity of masquerade.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474470056