Actors in stage and film productions use theatrical makeup for its ability to stand up under harsh lights and because it can create dramatic effects. When I was in my high schools musical I was surprised when one of my classmates told me I couldnt just wear my own makeup for a character that was supposed to look like a regular person. I didnt know that stage lights make people look washed out and that theatrical makeup was designed specifically to counteract that effect.
Like a lot of people, I had always assumed that theatrical makeup was only used for things like black eyes or warts or to make someone look a lot older than they really are. Of course those are some common uses for stage makeup, but it turns out that everybody that goes on stage (or in front of a camera) needs to wear special makeup. Thankfully, todays actors have much better products to choose from than what was available when I was in high school; we didnt have hypoallergenic makeup and it took a lot of scrubbing to remove the dark foundation we wore in our play.
Creating Illusions with Theatrical Makeup
Part of what makes a drama interesting is the visual effect it has on the audience. That can mean anything from computer generated-special effects to set design to stunts, wardrobe, and of course makeup. Theatrical makeup is actually one of the oldest tools for creating special effects on stage or in film. Before there were computer-generated monsters, makeup artists used different shades of makeup to create shadows and light on an actors face. The results were famous fiends of the stage and screen such as Dracula, Frankenstein, and countless others.
Within the realm of theatrical makeup you will find everything from foundation to fake blood and prosthetics to glitter and more. Todays best lines of professional makeup are available at discounted prices. Items like adhesives, makeup removers, and professional tools of the trade are available online and will be shipped to you hassle-free.
