n [ C , U ]
a type of theatre which was especially popular with kings, queens and the aristocracy in Britain in the 17th century. It involved actors in elaborate costumes, music and dancing. Many of the most popular masques were written by Ben Jonson , with costumes and scenery designed by Inigo Jones . Although masque died out after the English Civil War , many of its features were used in later forms of theatre, opera and ballet.