Open AccessFemale Mask/Masquerade in Nigeria, Aesthetics and the Art of Secret Societies
Author(s) -
Esther Akumbo Nyam
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of african theatre, film and media discourse
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2520-7210
DOI - 10.33886/kujat.v1i1.129
Subject(s) - custodians , aesthetics , mythology , empowerment , context (archaeology) , ideology , politics , sociology , gender studies , art , history , literature , political science , law , archaeology
The Dramatic performance by actors in masks and costumes still remains enigmatic. The ideological context of mask, and masquerade in Africa is associated with the spirit world which is an act of secret society dominated by men’s world. This paper focused on the role, performances and contributions of women in masquerade performances in Nigeria. The symbolism of women’s aesthetics, cosmology, mythology, performance, Genre, audience participation, construction, and originators and custodians of mask and masquerade is highlighted as emerging trends of feminist discuss in contemporary theatre performances as central to women liberation in men’s dominated society. The paper concludes the role and place of women in taking the masquerade performances, economic, social, political, culture empowerment from it’s inception as custodians of Spiritism.