A pantomime character is a type of theatrical performance in which the actors use physical gestures and facial expressions to convey a story without the use of words. The two most common pantomime characters are the DAME and Pierrot. The DAME is a female character, usually played by a male actor, who is often portrayed as a matronly figure. Pierrot is a male character, usually played by a female actor, who is often portrayed as a clown-like figure.