How to Find Supplies for Old-Age Stage Makeup

Your theater is doing a performance of “A Christmas Carol” and the actor playing Ebenezer Scrooge is much younger than his character. As the makeup artist, you have to turn him into a crotchety old man, but where do you look for the supplies for old age makeup?

Things You'll Need

• Local phone book
• Computer with Internet access

Instructions

1. Determine how much older you will need to make the actor look. Look at the theater to see how close the audience is to the stage. That will make a difference in what type of makeup you use and how heavily it is applied.

2. Find out what the budget is for the show’s makeup. Make a list of the makeup items you need and when you will need them. Also determine whether the theater has the ability to order online and whether you have enough time to order makeup.

3. Look in the phone book or online to see if there is a local store that supplies professional theater companies. Sometimes party stores or magic stores will carry professional theater makeup. Do not use the makeup they sell for Halloween costumes. This makeup will not hold up under theater lights.

4. Check out the Web sites of companies that sell theatrical makeup. 3 such companies are Performance Studios, Kryolan and Ben Nye. Call these companies and discuss your needs and whether a shipment can reach you in time before placing an order.