This week I will be performing Henry IV part 1. There is a lot that goes into the preparation of a show. You have to learn lines and blocking and then commit that all to memory. While that is all very difficult, the preparation that goes into the actual performance is key. There is a big difference between "stage makeup" and regular everyday makeup. If you are a girl in theater, your makeup will look extremely over exaggerated from its normal look. If you are a boy in theater, you aren't excused from the world of eyeliner and foundation.
Girls, your makeup will start with a primer that will cover your entire face, it's sometimes a powder, mine is a cream. After you've covered your face, you will apply concealer to any blemishes that may appear. Then comes the foundation which should be a few shades darker than your actual skin tone and that will cover the complete surface of your face. You may want to contour a bit using lighter shades under your eyes and on your nose while using dark shades along the line of your jaw and hair line. Then you can move onto your eyes which are the most important feature of an actress. Start with some eye shadow that will match your costume or the time period. I will be using neutrals to enhance the my lid while not detracting from the time period (15th century). Next lay down some black pencil eyeliner on the top and bottom lids. After that you may want to go over the top lid with liquid eyeliner in order to get a bolder look. Normally, I will take some black eye shadow and extend the lower outer edge of each line for a bolder affect. The dark lines allow for those sitting far away to still be able to tell your expression. You will need some mascara to make your eyelashes bigger as well. After the eyes are done, it's time for some blush. Blush will also need to be over exaggerated due to the lights on the stage making you look pale. Put on more blush than you think you will need and apply it from the apples of your cheeks and brush it out along your cheek bone. Finally it comes to lip color. This is mostly dependent on your costume so try and match the colors there.
Boys, you have it much easier. The foundation is important but not necessary. But the same goes for you apply a foundation a few shades darker than your skin tone. Next the eyes, all you'll really need is some dark brown or black eyeliner around your lids and a touch of mascara. You'll need a bit of blush as well but that's basically it. Talk to your director about makeup choices before you perform and good luck!
