Enhancing Theatrical Performances with Makeup
When you are wowed by a performance by the Western Australian Theatre Company or marvel at the visual spectacular of Cirque du Soleil, a huge part of that magic will be the transformations that have been undergone by the performers. Make up, hair, prosthetics, body paint; these are the finishing touches to theatrical performance.
Perth Woman Magazine visited Volona College to check out the amazing work being done by WA’s emerging makeup talent…
The earliest recording of a stage performer using makeup to enhance their performance, was in the sixth century B.C. The actor was a Greek man named Thepsis, who was determined to stand out from his fellow actors. He applied a highly toxic mix of white lead and red cinnabar (mercuric sulphide) to his face. Thankfully, we have come a long way since then, especially for the models and their skin! The principal idea of enhancing a performance or event remains the same however, if a lot more highly advanced and varied.
The diverse range of techniques used in the profession today has been rolled together into Volona College’s Diploma in Entertainment Makeup. The Cannington-based college has been running the course for the past 18 months. By the time these students become graduates, they can change a man to a woman, young to old, and the everyday to the extraordinary.
During the diploma, students learn a broad range of makeup techniques giving them a solid base with which to enter the beauty industry. Subjects include period make up, such as the white ‘Elizabethan’ look, theatrical make up, body painting, and bridal makeup- just to name a few.
"Make up, hair, prosthetics, body paint; these are the finishing touches to theatrical performance"
Volona’s Keryn Carter describes a process called Crepe Wool Facial Hair, using a substance called crepe wool, which is aimilar to steel wool but softer, to build fake beards and moustaches. “Women actually look like men,” she says.
Materials used historically for theatrical makeup include white chalk, carpenters’ blue chalk, India ink, paper soaked in liquid and red brick dust. Today, students are using rubber to make ‘old age makeup’, prosthetic masks with wrinkles that can add years to a person. They are also taught to paint on blemishes, injuries such as fractures scars and bruises, and add pigmentation. Amazingly, a student can make it look like a bone is sticking through someone’s arm.
"Spare a thought the next time you admire a boldly made-up face at the theatre or an event. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes"
So what do these mini magicians have to go through? The course covers all aspects of makeup, and some hairdressing. It is for those who may have already completed Volona’s Certificate II in Makeup Services, and want to take their skills to the next level. The creation of the Diploma in Entertainment Makeup came to be due to student demand for further and more diverse training.
“It’s an intense course,” says Keryn. “Some people do get a shock. Like hairdressing, it’s not as glamorous as you think! The model might look great, and there you are covered in spots of black or gold paint!”
So spare a thought the next time you admire a boldly made-up face at the theatre or an event. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes. Not to mention some fantastic technology that makes this industry one of excitement and untold possibility.
To express interest in Volona College’s Diploma in Entertainment Makeup, phone Volona on 9356 2269.
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