the color can be intensified gradually so the actor doesn’t appear to look like a doll.
5. If the role shows other parts of the skin such as the arms, shoulders, or legs, you may need to use body foundation to match the face to the body. I find it best to use a dampened sponge when applying body foundation. This helps spread the makeup evenly, without streaks.
6. You need to know that in theater, the eyes and mouth are centers for emotion. They will need to be exaggerated. They can be highlighted and colored with more pigment than other facial areas. Just remember that you don’t want to look like a raccoon. It is best to stay away from heavily lining the bottom portion of the eye in black. I will use a soft brown and smudge if more emphasis is needed. You can exaggerate the line on the top of the eye if appropriate to the role.
7. Curl the lashes and apply mascara one coat at a time, allowing the mascara to dry in between coats. Curling the lashes helps to open up the eye area.
8. Line the lips using a color that matches the lipstick. I often choose lipstick in a color darker or brighter than normally used so the lips can be seen. Follow the natural line of the lips then apply lipstick using a lip brush.
9. Finish applying the theater makeup fashion by dusting translucent powder to areas you feel need to be set in place.
Special Details in Theater Makeup
A character may need to be made
Curated Literature & Philadelphia Downtown Calendar
The Architecture of Focus: Deep Work & Modern Mastery
By Founders Library Press
A structured framework for strategic clarity, productivity, and authentic execution.
Upcoming Downtown Happenings
Live acoustic sessions, gallery receptions, literary salons, and independent trade shows across Philadelphia.