Exhibitions

Playful Performers

April 9, 2004 – December 12, 2004

National Museum of African Art
950 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC

Sublevel 2

See on Map Floor Plan

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.