If you’ve ever performed in a theatre production, you’ve probably encountered stage makeup at some point. Stage makeup is used help bring the characters to life in a production through contouring and colour choices. So, what makes stage makeup different from regular makeup? Makeup meant for the stage is usually heavier than regular makeup and more pigmented, so that the audience is able to see it from where they’re sitting. You also have to be conscious of the lighting and how the lighting will affect how your audience sees you. For example, because I’m really pale, I wear foundation two shades darker than my natural skin tone so the lights don’t wash me out.
Some examples of stage makeup:
Some stage makeup is also elaborate and character-related, like this look from Cats:
Have you ever worn stage makeup? If you haven’t, do you have any questions for those who have?
