For at least 20,000 years, masking has been a mark of cultural evolution and an indication of magical-religious sophistication in society. Ancient cave paintings depict figures with animal masks; early Egyptians left images of humans with animal “heads”; and Incan burial chambers contained masks of gold to cover the faces of the dead. Ancient peoples wore masks to survive the elements, succeed in combat, confirm their identity, attract spouses, celebrate important events, and venerate their personal and collective gods. Current literature suggests an early association between masking and pietistic practice. These and many other uses of masking are an important part of the record of human existence, shedding light on the origins of belief systems and spiritualism in the earliest human societies. Placing the mask in the broader context of the evolution of humanity, this book argues that the mask itself should not be assessed in the service of any single function. Instead, the chapters integrate all functions to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mask as a powerful cultural phenomenon—a means by which individual communities attempted to communicate their dignity and se... [Read More]

The inaugural broadcast of the Peabody and Emmy®-award winning series The Met Live in HD.The Magic Flute has delighted audiences of all ages for centuries. Julie Taymor's dazzling English-language production brings one of Mozart s greatest works to life as never before.James Levine leads a cast that includes Ying Huang as Pamina in her Met debut, Nathan Gunn, Matthew Polenzani, Erika Miklosa and Rene Papa.Taken from the December 30, 2006 live performance.

This all-time ballet favourite, in which young Clara is swept into a fantasy adventure when one of her Christmas presents comes to life, is at its most enchanting in Peter Wright's glorious production - as fresh as ever in its 25th year. Tchaikovsky's ravishing score, period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman (including an ingenious magical Christmas tree), an exquisite Sugar Plum Fairy (Miyako Yoshida) and chivalrous Prince (Steven McRae), the mysterious Drosselmeyer (Gary Avis) and vibrant dancing by The Royal Ballet make for a captivating performance. Filmed in High Definition and recorded in true surround sound. Press Reviews"All in all a fine performance of a justified favourite is given the presentation it deserves." (Musicweb International) "One of the very best seasonal treats for children and adults alike, the Royal Ballet's Nutcracker is a handsome, magical, thoroughly traditional rendering of ETA Hoffmann's immortal if deeply strange story. " (Sunday Express) CastMiyako Yoshida (The Sugar Plum Fairy)Steven McRae (The Prince)Gary Avis (Herr Drosselmeyer)Iohna Loots (Clara)Ricardo Cervera (Nephew / Nutcracker)The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House; Koen Kessels ProductionCom... [Read More]

Ruler of the land of color! As she waves her magic wand, the world will be alive with color in this disguise. The Rainbow Princess Fairy Toddler Costume includes a pink and blue criss-cross top with attached pastel rainbow tulle skirt and sleeves, as well as matching wings trimmed in glitter and a flower wand. Does not include shoes or hair

Bring a little bit of magic into dress up time with a beautiful and delicately decorated dress. The Girls Barbie Fairy Costume will let any little fairy spread their wings and experience the fun that comes with being fairy, and when playtime is over the detachable wings come off with ease. bring the magic of the fairies to life and order this adorable outfit