Greek theatre, the acting system and the miniatures from the Lipari necropolis

We reflect on the original characteristics of Greek theatre, which, starting from playful forms of improvisation, evolved into an art form with unique characteristics within the inclusive Dionysian rituals. Theatre stages mimetic actions of reality through a limited number of actors wearing masks to play a much larger number of characters. Theatre uses thoughts, actions, words, music and spectacle, setting in motion 1) the logos: reflections, which are translated into words, 2) sensations: the akoē (hearing) and opsis (sight) and 3) pathos, emotionality. The unitary systemic composition of the theatrical art means that the failure of one part can be compensated for by the others thanks to the synaesthesia of which theatrical language is a master. These theoretical considerations are at the basis of the project to study the mask miniatures found in the necropolis of Diana on Lipari, in function of their evident value not only religious but also theatrical. A brief history of the handcrafted reconstructions of the Lipari masks for contemporary staging will be presented, preceding the innovative project of an interdisciplinary team that, through the processes of digital surveying and life-size 3D modelling, intends to experiment in the field all the expressive potential of the mask as an artistic tool at the service of classical theatrical texts, at the same time allowing for incredibly inclusive and engaging experiences.