Imagine a world of silent stories. It’s a world where gestures speak louder than words. Here at Teatrul Masca, that world comes alive.
Teatrul Masca is Romania’s only theater of gesture, pantomime and body expression. It was founded on July 1, 1990. The first performance happened on the same day. Six actors worked in record time. Ana-Maria Paslaru, Dalila Gall and Sorin Dinculescu were among them. George Toropoc, Florentin Duse, Tudorel Filimon and Mihai Malaimare completed the cast. The performance took place outside at Cafeneaua Muzeului Literaturii Romane.
Initially, Teatrul Masca staged street shows. They performed in hospitals. They also participated in various events such as television shows. Teatrul Masca was present at fairs and exhibitions. They even performed at product launches.
Teatrul Masca has three halls. These are the Amphitheater, Jacques Lecoq Hall and the Main Hall. Each offers a unique setting for the theater’s performances.
Now Teatrul Masca performs about 300 shows yearly. Over 90000 people attend. The theater also participates in national and international festivals. Teatrul Masca expresses its cultural vocation. It also shows its social and educational mission. The theater aims to educate people culturally. This is especially true for those in peripheral neighborhoods.
Teatrul Masca actively promotes cultural inclusion. In collaboration with the CODA ‘Farmecul tacerii’ Foundation, the theater launched a program. This program improves accessibility for hearing-impaired viewers in Bucharest. The program is named ‘Aici se viseaza la schimbare’. Teatrul Masca joins the initiative of other theaters. The State Theatre of Constanta and the ‘Fani Tardini’ Theatre of Galati are also part of it.
The theater believes in the power of culture. It can create community connections. Teatrul Masca wants to build a community of people and ideas. The first accessible performance was on March 1. The show was ‘Jurnal de Romania #AiciSeViseazaLaSchimbare’. It featured Romanian sign language interpretation. Access was free for deaf people.
Catinca Dragansecu is the interim manager. She says change happens here. Lena Dermengiu is president of CODA ‘Farmecul tacerii’ Foundation. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity. Access to theater in Romanian sign language is a step forward. It ensures equality for all viewers.
Representations with accessibility features are announced monthly. Check the Teatrul Masca website. You can also find information on their social media pages.
Teatrul Masca is more than just a theater. It is a place where silence speaks volumes. It’s a space where everyone is welcome. Step inside and experience the magic of nonverbal storytelling.