Applying stage makeup before a production makes the actor's features pop.
Stage productions have to compensate for intense lighting and extreme audience distance. Both of these flatten and steal definition from the face. This problem is solved through the use of makeup. By over-exaggerating a person's features, he looks normal to an audience member. Applying stage makeup to a boy is very easy, though it does require a bit of practice to make it look natural.
Instructions
1. Begin by applying a foundation that is a shade or two darker than the boy's skin tone. You will use a darker shade because the lights will brighten it up. Apply it with a brush or sponge, fading it into his hairline and down his neck. Don't cover his entire neck or the makeup will get on his costume.
2. Contour his face lightly with a shadow color. The shadow should be no more than three shades darker than the foundation. Do not use black unless he has very dark skin. The three main areas are under his cheekbones, under his jawline from ear to ear, and in the crease of his eyes leading down the sides of his nose. Blend the shadows smoothly into his skin. Be careful not to apply the contouring too heavily or it will look like the boy has lines on his face. Remember that you're simulating light-cast shadows.
3. Add a highlight color if needed to his cheekbones, chin and down the center of his nose. The highlight should be a few shades lighter than the foundation, but not white. The highlight won't be seen on its own from the audience, but it helps to support the shapes you have created with the shadow.
4. Powder his face with loose, color-free powder and a powder puff. Cream theatrical makeup needs to have powder pressed into them to set. A light dusting with a powder brush won't be enough.
5. Darken his eyebrows if needed with the eyebrow pencil. Use short strokes in the same direction the hairs are growing for a realistic effect.
6. Add subtle eyeliner for larger theaters. Don't draw a solid line, rather use a series of dots to reinforce the edges of his eyes without making them look made up.
7. Add a subtle blush to put some color back into his face as the foundation often makes the face appear a bit pale.
