Maker of Leather Neutral Masks and Commedia Masks since 1995.

Newman is a master mask maker, performer, and teacher whose practice spans continents and traditions. Born in London, he first studied Philosophy at the University of Warwick before pursuing craft and performance through diverse cultural pathways. His training includes Western saddle making with Gail Denman in Oregon, mask carving and ritual mask performance with Ida Bagus Anom and Ida Bagus Alit in Bali, and actor training at the renowned Dell’Arte International School in California under Joan Schirle.

A pivotal influence came through his study of Commedia dell’Arte and Neutral Mask techniques with legendary Italian mask maker Donato Sartori in Padova, Italy. This lineage continues to shape Newman’s artistry and pedagogy. His masks have been commissioned worldwide, including for Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco (Paris), Teatro Zinzanni (San Francisco), Horos Theatro (Greece), and countless theatre companies and schools across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Newman’s masks are held in training programs at Dell’Arte International, the Accademia dell’Arte (Italy), the Central School of Speech and Drama (London), the Globe Theatre, the Swedish National Theatre, UC Berkeley, and beyond.

Newman’s masks are also a wonder to behold. – What Did She Think?

For over a decade, Newman has also collaborated closely with Make A Scene, sharing his expertise in mask, Commedia, and physical theatre with Australian artists, educators, and students.