Should I wear a mask?

Question

I am going for my poetry recital and I am not sure if I should wear a mask during my performance. I am reciting 'O Captain My Captain' by Walt Whitman and I really want it to be a masterpiece! But, I think that a mask will make the performance better, is it true?

Answer 1

Masks can be effective, but there are a lot of pitfalls with them. First of all, they hide your facial expressions which are usually the most important part of a performance. Keep in mind that traditionally, theater forms that use masks compensate for the lack of facial expression by exaggerated body movement. It could work if you think you can get more into it with the mask; you may feel more comfortable with a mask b/c it hides your face.
If you do decide to use a mask, use a HALF MASK which only covers the upper part of the face. This way people will see some expression, and you won't have a problem with being heard.
Good luck. BTW, I'm a drama/English teacher.

Answer 2

Why on earth would you wear a mask for a poetry recital? The very idea is bizarre.

You're reciting; that's different from acting. Your voice is your main tool, but the expressiveness in your face is also going to be featured in your performance. A mask would only deprive you of that.

Answer 3

Characters were portrayed by actors wearing masks, although the innamorati (or lovers) did not wear masks. Like their English contemporaries (Shakespeare), the Italians dressed male actors en travesti -- in women's clothing and wigs. Unlike the boy players of English renaissance theatre this was for humorous purposes, rather than as a result of social constraints.

In some cases, the characters were also traditionally considered as respectively representing some Italian regions or main towns. Often they are still now symbolic of the related town.

I think you will be fantastic wearing mask.....dare to be different? Come on...give it a try...huhuhuhu

Answer 4

It depends on your voice, hon. If you have a strong voice that won't be hindered by a mask (or if you are wearing a half mask that doesn't hide your mouth), then YES! Go for it! Anything to make you stand out!
If it covers your mouth, o if you have a quiter voice, you might want to rethink the idea.
You also might wish to think about your eyes. Expression is important in poetry, and your eyes are a good chunk of that expression. If your eyes are covered by the mask, it may not be a good idea.
Hope I helped, dollface. Break a leg!

Answer 5

I say leave the mask. You will be reciting Whitman's most known poem, many people already know it, and so will want to see how you personally portray the poem. The mask will just hide your emotions.

Answer 6

Just my opinion, but I think your audience may focus so closely on the mask that your performance and the poem stand to lose their attention. They may just sit there wondering, "What's with the mask?" rather than getting the full impact of what you're saying and how you're saying it.

Answer 7

I think if you believe it will give a better performance then you would probably be putting your best effort into the performance
if you had the mask on

versus not having it and thinking you can't be giving full impact.

Answer 8

I think a mask is likely to distract the audience.

Answer 9

i think your your face expressions and the passion in your eyes while reciting it would make your performance better. If you feel the peom your audience will too.good luck. carpe deim

Answer 10

wearing a mask might be too theatrical...