This workshop will be live and in-person! In this workshop, Frank will guide you step-by-step through his complete mask making process, which he has developed and tested over many years. Using one of Frank’s plaster molds, paper and glue, participants will make a full expressive mask. This will happen, in person, over three group classes and Frank will walk you through each step of the process. Chris McGregor, Artistic Director of Axis Theatre, will be with him making a mask at the same time, so you will be able to watch and participate, with feedback, over each step of the process.

The three sessions will be spread over the course of a few weeks so the required drying time can be achieved for your mask. You can’t rush perfection! Frank will also be available at a set time and day between classes to answer any of your questions and assist you in any way he can.

As a participant in the workshop, you will receive a package containing most of the materials you will need including the mask mold, (which will be returned after the workshop) paper, glue and paint to make your mask. Also included is a detailed step by step description of his process.

You can chose your mold from the masks you see above. These masks are very strong and light. They can withstand the rigours of performing and teaching for many years.

ABOUT FRANK

Frank Rader is a mask-maker, puppet-maker and educator of over 40 years of experience. His work has offered him the opportunity to work with many talented performers, teachers and other artists, including Donato Sartori in Padua, Italy.

Theatre educators across North America and Europe have been utilizing Frank’s masks for decades. They are noted for their wide range of playability and expression, allowing the actor to explore an extensive variety of physical and emotional characteristics.

They also have proved themselves to be extremely durable and comfortable to wear.

Other than the occasional new coat of paint and replacement of the elastic band, the masks have withstood the rigors of years touring internationally. They are held in numerous private and public collections, including but not limited to, The London Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England, The Victoria College of Art in Melbourne, Australia and the University of British Columbia.

Frank has been designing puppets for over 20 years for a variety of companies including Theatre Bagger and Mortal Coil Performance Society, both of Vancouver. His puppet designs for the acclaimed children’s show The Little Old Man were nominated for a 2009 Jessie Richardson award. His Mr. Hatch puppet for Axis Theatre Company’s production of Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch won an Outstanding Design for Puppet Creation Jessie in 2017. He shared this award with Barbra Clayden who created the costume for Mr. Hatch.

As an educator he has worked for many institutions, most extensively as a high school art teacher. He taught grades 8-12, with a focus on International Baccalaureate and students with disabilities. His classes covered all mediums of visual art, including art theory and history. Outside of the public education system, he has taught many mask workshops, including courses for at risk youth and movement for animators.

Frank Rader is an intuitive and creative instructor who utilizes decades of experience to empower his students and let them explore their skills and creativity.