National Museum of African Art
Playful Performers
April 9, 2004 – December 12, 2004
Through objects, photographs, and video presentations, Playful Performers is the first exhibition to look at children's masquerades in Africa. It explores the role of children in adult masquerades; children's masks, costumes, and performances that imitate adult forms; and masquerades created by children. Masquerades—performed throughout west and central Africa using mask, elaborate costume, dance, and music—play a critical role in the interpretation of a community's history, culture, and identity. This is also the museum's first exhibition for and about children.
