In the fourth volume of his Mask: A Release of Acting Resources David Griffiths investigates the use of mask in the Masquerade traditions of West Africa, and specifically Nigeria. The author persuasively argues in favour of a common language of mask performance, and focuses particularly on the manner in which the Nigerian dramatist Wole Soyinka explores the theatrical virtuosity and vibrancy of mask in his plays, specifically his "root" play A Dance of the Forests. David Griffiths then presents his short trilogy of plays, under the title Touch, which he created to explore the intricate subtleties of African mask in a manner accessible to Western actors. Touch is based on Soyinka's play and arguably needs that as a point of reference - but being directed to read Soyinka is to everyone's benefit.
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