Eye of the Mask

“Eye of the Mask” reveals for Canadian audiences another view of life in Nicaragua. Set against the backdrop of the 1979 Sandinista revolution and the continuing contra attacks, many Nicaraguans were involved in the resurgence of popular theatre. It’s theatre based on both folkloric and experimental techniques. Judith Doyle and her crew focus on one of the most exciting and important of these theatre groups – Nixtayolero (Dawn Star) and its director, Alan Bolt. The film follows Nixtayolero as they travel to perform in remote, rural areas. Their work, and the response of their audiences, is juxtaposed with film of popular festivals- La Gigantona (the giant women puppets of Leon) and the festival of San Sylvestre in Katarina. Culture in Nicaragua is incredibly mixed: theatre as a weapon in the insurrection, contemporary television, disco in Managua’s “Plastic City.” “Eye of the Mask” gives us a taste of that diversity. We also see a rare view of theatre as used in the very poor and isolated areas of Nicaragua. This is a film that can be used and enjoyed by a wide variety of groups: solidarity groups, film and theatre people, churches – anyone interested in popular art and events in Central America. Featuring dance, festivals, storytelling, popular song and the re-enactments of subversive theatre, before and after the revolution. English and Spanish with English subtitles.