Published : Sept. 20, 2015 - 23:36
Swiss mask theatre troupe Mummenschanz performed at the National Museum of Korea in Seoul over the weekend.
The group, founded in 1972 by performers Bernie Schurch, Andres Bossard and Floriana Frassetto, has had over 1,300 performances in 60 countries, captivating 300,000 audiences. It had a three-year run on Broadway from 1977 to 1980.
The pantomime performance employs an interplay of “bizarre-looking” masks, movement, lighting and shadow in a whimsical choreography. Simple yet colorful objects are used to depict different characters, such as the “clay mask,” “slinky man” and “giant hands.”
The entire program of puppetry and visual antics is performed without music or sound, relying on the humorous, witty movement of artists.
The New York Times said, “My inner kid selfdom stopped griming. Its longevity is well earned,” while the Chicago Tribune noted that the show “amuses and delights, still inspiring wonder and smiles.”
Founder and performer Floriana Frassetto said: “The stories are unique with no sound or music, but our show will awaken the little child in everyone.”
By Joel Lee (joel@heraldcorp.com)
A play by Mummenschanz. Mummenschanz