Whether you’re head of the makeup department for a local community theater, or you would like to become a professional theatrical makeup artist, proper training is important. Courses in theatrical makeup teaches the reasons why makeup is needed for stage actors, apply it properly for different characters, and take care of the makeup and supplies. But where do you find courses for theatrical makeup? You also need to find out if the class you’re signed up for is a reputable course.
Instructions
1. Call the theater department of local colleges and universities. Find out whether they have a class in theater makeup. If they do, ask whether the classes are offered as part of a continuing education program or whether the courses are offered only to registered students.
2. Call the performing arts center nearest you. Sometimes, the larger organizations will have training courses for potential actors and tech people, including makeup.
3. Call stores that sell professional theater makeup. Some of these stores hold classes on theater makeup. Sometimes, these stores will give a discount to people who have taken their courses.
4. Check the websites of companies, such as Kryolan, that manufacture theatrical makeup. Some of these companies send teachers to various locations to hold classes. These classes are often very short and intensive as the instructor is flown in to teach the class. Many times, payment for these classes will include a basic makeup kit.
5. Ask questions before signing up for any class. Find out who is teaching the course and what her credentials and experience are. Find out what is going to be taught. A good basic course will include apply straight, corrective, age, and fantasy makeup. Find out what is included in the cost of the class and inquire if any makeup or supplies be included in the cost. Ask about whether meals are included in the cost. Find out what you need to bring to the class, especially if you are going to have to stay away from home when attending the class. Also ask what happens if you are unable to attend the class once you have paid for it. Some courses will allow you to make up the course at a later time.
6. Take makeup remover and facial cleansers with you if you are taking a two or three day course. These courses usually require the students to apply makeup on themselves and you will need to apply it to a clean face. Take a headband or hair clips to keep your hair out of your face. Take something to protect your clothing or wear something you don’t mind getting makeup on. Theater makeup can be difficult to remove if it gets on your clothing.
