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Suitable for
All levels, age 18+
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Dates
Tue 26th Aug – Fri 29th Aug
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Tuition
10:00-17:00
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Location
Downside Road, Bristol
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Cost
ÂŁ456.00
Overview
Step into the world of theatrical mask making with our four-day course at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. From concept to creation, you’ll cover everything from sculpting, moulding, and finishing your own mask using recognised materials and techniques.
Alongside hands-on making, cover the historical and cultural significance of masks in performance, with creative insight from your tutor, Louise Thomas. By the end of the course, you’ll take home a completed Worbla mask and a reusable plaster mould to keep creating.
Perfect for performers, designers, and curious creatives alike, this course offers both technical know-how and artistic inspiration to elevate your craft.
Taking bookings soon!
Course Highlights
- A complete overview of theatrical mask creation: from concept to finished piece.
- Sculpting techniques inspired by global theatrical traditions.
- Life casting and mould-making with plaster.
- Use of Worbla: a specialist thermoplastic material.
- Finishing techniques including painting, texturing, and surface decoration.
- Guidance on fitting masks for practical performance use.
Day Outline
Day 1: Introduction & Life Casting
- PowerPoint: History and relevance of masks in theatre today.
- Discussion of global techniques and styles.
- Optional: Life cast of a face to serve as base for sculpt.
- Begin clay sculpt of larger-than-life character mask using reference images.
Day 2: Sculpting & Mould Making
- Continue and complete clay sculpture.
- Introduction to plaster casting and mould making.
- Create one-piece plaster mould of clay sculpt.
- Prepare materials for thermoplastic casting.
Day 3: Thermoplastic Mask Creation
- Introduction to Worbla (non-toxic thermoplastic).
- Take cast from mould using Worbla.
- Begin shaping and trimming mask form.
- Explore additional embellishment techniques.
Day 4: Finishing & Fitting
- Add papier mâché layers, paint, fabric, fur, flock and texture.
- Priming, painting and surface finishing.
- Learn mask fitting techniques using foam, padding, elastic, and fixings.
- Option to make multiples if time permits.
- Final reflections and photo documentation.
Who Can Apply
- Artists, performers, or creatives interested in mask work
- Theatre designers, prop makers, and physical theatre practitioners
- No previous experience necessary—enthusiasm and curiosity are welcome!
Meet Your Course Leader
Louise trained in Fine Art at Leeds University and went on to gain a post grad. diploma in Figurative Sculpture at the Heatherley School of Fine Art in London. She then spent a decade working between the disciplines of Fine Art sculpture, animation and theatre which included 3 years leading an art production workshop that produced animatronic silicone figures for exhibition in Paris and Berlin inc. venues Théâtre du Châtelet and the Centre Pompidou.
For the past 6 years Louise has been Deputy Head of Props at the Royal Ballet and Opera in London before deciding to make the move back to her roots in the west country and begin her role at BOVTS in November 2024.
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What do I need to wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting messy.
Closed-toe footwear (e.g. trainers) is required for safety.
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What do I need to bring?
A notebook and pen for developing your own ideas throughout the week.Â
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Where can I get food?
We advise you to bring food and drink with you each day. Otherwise shops can be found nearby onÂ
Whiteladies Road.
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What are the course dates?
The course runs from Tuesday 26th August – Friday 29th August 2025
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What time does the course run from and to?
Your day will start at 10:00 and finish at 17:00.
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Short Courses Refund Policy
If you wish to cancel your place on the course, you will receive a full refund if you notify the school at least 7 days prior to the start of the course. For cancellations, contact [email protected]
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Short Course Cancellation Policy
We will make all reasonable efforts to deliver a short course as outlined on our site and in any brochure or published material. However, we reserve the right to cancel a short course in case of events outside our control or if the course fails to meet a minimum number of participants. In the event that we cancel a course, we will inform participants who have booked a place via email at least 7 days prior to the start date. We will also provide a full refund of the course fee paid. Bristol Old Vic Theatre School cannot be held responsible for any expenses you incur due to such a cancellation.
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UWE Accommodation Offering
Students training on a BOVTS summer course can enquire about Summer UWE accommodation availability. Enquiries can be emailed to [email protected] and the Accommodation Team will confirm availability and costings.
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