New York University
Program in Educational Theatre (998-5868)
E17.1079 Masks & Puppetry
Ralph Lee
Class Syllabus
This is an outline of the work covered in the Masks & Puppetry course. The projects may vary a
little from one year to the next. The work is done in papier mache because the materials are all
readily accessible, non-toxic and very versatile.
I. Each student creates a plaster cast of his or her own face. These are then used as a foundation
over which the actual shapes for the masks are modeled in plasticine.
II. Create a full-face mask of a demon or spirit: specify the nature of the spirit in the mask. Mold
the contours of the mask in plasticine over the plaster face cast and then cover the clay with
papier mache strips of brown paper and glue (at least four layers of paper should be used). When
this hardens the clay is removed from the inside and the papier mache mask can be finished and
painted.
III. Create a full-face mask of a character from literature, art, etc. The object is to acquaint
oneself with the contours of facial anatomy and translate them into a mask, to attempt to sculpt a
particular character, to invest it with the unique qualities of that individual through the use of
modeling techniques.
IV. Create a half-mask. The object is to make a mask that covers only part of the face and allows
the expressions of the performer to read through it. This can be a mask in the commedia tradition
or one of the student’s own design.
V. Create a large head that could be used for a giant puppet. The object is to introduce another
technique of working with papier mache, using wads of dry crumpled newspaper to build up the
shapes and then covering them with papier mache. The technique is crude, and free form effects
can be achieved quickly.
VI. Create a head for a small hand puppet. Same techniques as previous project except here the
scale is very small.
VII. Create a minimum of three works, either masks or puppets or a combination of the two, on a
particular theme, or from a story or dramatic literature, chosen by the student. Write a paragraph
or two describing proposed project, and I will discuss these projects with each student to
determine their feasibility and value as an exercise.
Students are required to gather a variety of visual imagery relevant to each of the masks they are
creating. Although much of this may be found on the internet, students are also expected to use
the library and periodicals to obtain this research material.
Note: Excused absences must be reported in advance to the program secretary (998-5868). More
than one unexcused absence will result in a lower grade. Lateness may also result in a lower
grade. Participation of all students is essential in weekly critique sessions of projects in-progress.
Supplies: Most supplies will be provided. However, students are required to purchase several
good paintbrushes and several tubes of acrylic paint. If you are using supplies furnished by
NYU, please be considerate of your fellow students and replace covers on paint tubes and glue,
and carefully wash paint brushes and clean up workspace when you are finished.