Open Up

16 Nov Open Up

Masks have been used in the theatre as far back as Ancient Greece. They denoted archetypal characters with specific expressions, such as sorrowful, excitable or boastful. Later, French stage directors used neutral masks so that actors would focus on physical expressiveness, as opposed to delivering lines. Comedian Robin Williams cited mask work as a key to his success because it set him free on stage.

Eloqui adapted mask technique for rehearsing presentations. We had a grand time with CDK professionals in Chicago last week applying “roles” as masks. Deborah assigned a character as different from the demeanor of each trainee as possible. A quiet person rehearsed their content as Beyonce; outgoing men became shy young women; and buttoned-down executives were bad Las Vegas entertainers. The brave attendees dove in, making it valuable for them and entertaining for the group.

Taking on various roles/ characters allows you to open up, both physically and vocally when you rehearse. And it will ease your stage fright when you actually deliver the presentation, recalling how loose and free you were during rehearsal. Ironic that a mask can unleash elements deeply embedded in us– but it works. And it’s fun to be someone else once in a while.