The company

Art of the mask by

Theatre Transformations

Theatre Transformations is an international performance company founded in 1990, originating in the United Kingdom before relocating to France. The organisation specialises in the artistry of mask-making and physical theatre, producing a diverse repertoire that ranges from original stories to reimagined literary classics. Their work is highly versatile, featuring productions tailored for all ages and utilising handcrafted masks as central narrative tools. Beyond the stage, the company engages in cultural research, Erasmus+ collaborations, and community workshops that explore traditional and contemporary mask techniques. Led by a team of skilled actors and mask designer Tracey Boot, the company operates from Chambéry, maintaining a strong commitment to artistic innovation and technical excellence.

art of the mask

The central role of mask-making defines the artistic identity of theatre Transformations

Foundation for Performance:

We position the mask not as a mere prop, but as the very foundation and “backbone” of our creative process. The mask is the seed from which the entire production grows, dictating the movement, emotion, and visual language of every performance.

Meticulous Craftsmanship:

The company’s identity is rooted in a high level of “attention to detail” and “excellence in design”. Mask-making is a specialised role within the company, and handled by Tracey Boot

Research and Development:

Mask-making is a continuous field of exploration for the company. This commitment to “artistic innovation” and the exploration of human emotions through the mask is a central theme of their work.

Artistic Direction

Scottish born Tracey Boot is the founder and artistic director of Theatre Transformations, she is also the initiator and administrator of INM@SKS (International Network of Mask Specialists ).

Tracey creates the masks, trains the artists and either performs or directs the shows. Every project she undertakes is steeped in her creative energy and unwavering commitment to the art of the mask. The masks she designs are not mere accessories, but real works of art that add depth and dimension to the performances.

Tracey, a Theatre Studies graduate from the University of Manchester, has trained with various notable teachers, including Donato Sartori and Jaques Lecoq, developing a unique blend of traditional and contemporary drama techniques. Alongside her stage performances, she passionately educates new generations of actors, inspiring them through her dedication to artistic innovation and the exploration of the mask.

More about tracey boot coming soon

the granny smith show

Excellence in design, from mask and costume to decor, is typical of Boot’s exceptional attention to detail. Every aspect of the show, including Granny’s occasional forgetfulness of English words (she is, like Boot herself, an English speaker who has lived in France for a long time), is carefully calculated to captivate the young audience (and the accompanying adults).
Mark Brown, The National
Granny Smith, French Institute, Edinburgh, August 22, 2021