Applying stage make-up is equal parts art and science. It requires knowledge, practice, precision, and a lot of learning through mistakes as well. It is something that any performer needs to know about, as it’s a great way to enhance your look and even your character while you are on stage.
Even those who are experienced in applying make-up can find stage make-up application to be challenging. The best stage make-up should look exaggerated up close, but be natural when looked at from afar. Finding this balance can be tricky indeed, so we are here to help. Here are 5 stage make-up mistakes you should always avoid!
#1: Skipping a Good Foundation
Stage make-up is much heavier than its regular counterpart, so foundation for the stage can feel very heavy and unnatural at first. Some performers do trade it up for regular products because of this. With that said, a foundation is the canvas over which you apply the rest of your make-up, and it is important to start with a good canvas.
To protect your face, begin with a barrier spray and then apply base carefully, blending it properly below your jawline and into your neck. You can always get a professional to help you with application while you play at mobile casinos Canada, too.
#2: Forgetting to Minimise Shine
Stages are hot places, and their lights are brutal. Many stage actors forget to consider this when applying their make-up, and end up pouring with sweat half way through their performances. By using the right make-up, you can minimise shine and sweat to a degree.
Choose waterproof products and rouges and eye colours that last longer than traditional powders for extra staying power. Fixing spray and a dusting of matte powder will also be your best friends.
#3: Focusing on Your Up-Close Look
Many folks confuse stage make-up for regular cosmetic application, and think that looking good up close is what matters the most. Stage make-up is not true to life, however – you are meant to use it to enhance your features for your audience, who will be far away.
Your goal should be to look great from a few metres away, so your look should actually seem very overdone and exaggerated up close. Stage make-up that is too light will fade your features instead of enhancing them.
#4: Going Colour Crazy
Overly light stage make-up is a problem, but so is overly bright and colourful application. Contrasts like very white base or extremely dark colours might make you look more like a clown than an actor!
Your make-up needs to ‘read’ correctly with the audience, and your choices must suit your character. Pick colours that will look natural on stage, even if they do not look that way up close.
#5: Not Considering the Details
Many beginners concentrate solely on the overall look and feel of their make-up and ignore the finishing details. It’s a good idea to take some time to define the features of your face like your eyebrows and bone structure, too.
Use highlighters, shadows and blushes to skilfully change your features and portray the personality of your character. Even male performers should not skip eye liner or mascara. Simply go with natural browns for more subtle definition.
