How to Apply Makeup for a Musical

Applying makeup for a musical is very different from applying makeup for regular daywear. You need to apply the makeup in a theatrical manner so that people in the back row of the theatre can see your face and expressions. The fact that you are performing under bright lights also makes special makeup application necessary. Here are instructions on how to apply makeup for a musical.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Liquid foundation
• Face powder
• Blush
• Eye shadow
• Mascara
• False eyelashes (optional)
• Lipstick
• Lip liner
• Makeup brushes

1. Apply a liquid foundation. Even if you have perfect skin tone and never wear foundation, you will need it if you're performing on a stage. Liquid foundation acts as a primer and allows the blush and powder to stick to your face and keeps it in place longer. Don’t forget to apply the liquid foundation to your eyelids and lips, as well.

2. Apply powder makeup all over your face. This prevents the bright lights from reflecting off of your skin. You can use whatever powder you want including powder foundation or bronzer. Do not put this on your eyes or lips.

3. Wear a deep colored blush. Light colors will wash out under the lights so go a few shades darker than your normal blush. Apply the blush to the apple of your cheeks and brush it toward your ears.

4. Apply eye shadow to contour your eyes. Use shades of beige and brown. Apply a medium color on your eyelids, a darker color in the crease of your eyelid and the lightest color along the brow bone. The various shadows will accentuate your eyes and make them pop. Add several coats of mascara or use fake eyelashes along with mascara. Use more eyeliner than normal as well, especially to the under eye. Extend the eyeliner on the upper lash line beyond the eye.

5. Apply red lipstick and make sure that it isn't too pink or brown. You can choose to use a lip stain with gloss. You should also use lip liner to outline the lips for more definition and so that the lipstick does not bleed.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be alarmed if your makeup looks garish. How the makeup looks close up is not important. Remember that the audience will be looking at you from a distance.
• Even men need to wear makeup on stage, although they can skip the eye shadow, false eyelashes and lip liner; however, they should wear blush, lipstick, eyeliner, and mascara.