Wall of Masks

On the same wall is a set of framed Chinese Paper cuts  representing the masks used in the Beijing Opera.

I must admit that I’ve never been to the Beijing Opera (or any other Opera for that matter) and these masks always serve to remind me that there’s one more thing I must strike off my Bucket List. So one day, I hope to see a performance where these masked beauties on my wall actually come alive.

Masks have been used since ancient times in various cultures  for rituals as well as entertainment. They symbolise different emotions and are used to heighten the narrative in folk theatre.

At one time, masked balls were popular  and even today, pre-Lenten carnivals   revellers  dance through the streets in wild abandon, hiding their identities behind them.