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In the surreal, comic, wordless universe of MUMMENSCHANZ, the ordinary becomes extraordinary when common materials - such as wires, tubes, boxes and even toilet paper - all spring to life as fantastical characters.
Abstract shapes and forms also interact in surprising ways to reveal some timeless truths about human connections and relationships. The result is a wonder-filled, visually stunning spectacle and family entertainment that sparks the imagination and transcends cultural barriers.
“Dazzling and delightful!”
The New York Times
The work of the group has become a form of art which has put its mark on the Mime-Masque Theater and impressed a few generations of audiences. Showgoers of all ages and culture who, led into the creative work of Mummenschanz, witness weird timeless creatures and incredible colourful forms competing to enchant them.
Mummenschanz is a Swiss mask theatre troupe who perform in a surreal mask- and prop-oriented style. The name Mummenschanz is German for "mummery," or a play involving mummers. Mummer is an Early Modern English term for a mime artist.
The trio offered an alternative not only to Pierrot lunaire (the classical white-faced storyteller) but both to the refined white-faced narrative pantomime (where all is left to the imagination of the audience) and to the expressiveness of the classical dance. So doing while using a modern device, a new mask playing was implemented, regardless of to the imbalance between the different trainings of the artists.
Followed ten years of experimental work and innovative research, and that absolute passion for the comedy that got the artists on stage first at home then abroad, later on, Broadway, performing a play from 1977 till 1979. They had by then reached the threshold that renowned theatre groups cross. Notwithstanding the death of Andres Bossard (25.03.1992), co-founder and beloved friend, MUMMENSCHANZ continued to tour the world.
The years that followed Andres' early departure saw the emergence of more comprehensive programmes, the development of mask and playing techniques, and the broadening of the repertoire. More than a hundred new numbers came into life that have not stopped to be acclaimed as the most popular in the world.
The numerous requests for Mummenschanz shows and the particular requirements of the powerful American Theatre Trade Union prompted the world tour that lasted five years (1999-2004) and needed a two-fold cast. The original troupe played in Europe, while specially trained performers toured Northern and Southern America.
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THE TEAM
Floriana Frassetto, Philip Egli , Raffaella Mattioli , Pietro Montandon , Jan Maria Lukas .
Mummenschanz Stiftung
Trogenerstrasse 80
CH-9450 Altstätte
Phone: +41 71 755 55 55
info@mummenschanz.com
Here are few videos reflect some of their work.