The art of the masquerade evolved over centuries in a wide range of cultures, but in Ipaja, the skill has been perfected. Since ancient times, each family of masquerades train their young ones from their early years onward, passing down artistic techniques that have been unerringly transmitted through generations. The first step in the training of a family of masquerades is to familiarize them with the ways of humankind. Once they have mastered their powers, they receive further instruction in theatrical gestures, movement and dance. The result is a show that will captivate any audience.The rituals are as old as mankind. A special bond between parents and children is revealed in this unbroken tradition of dance, music and art. As the culture changes, so does the style of masquerade performance; yet one thing remains constant: pride in tradition. This image captures this mystical and magical world.