Becoming a Theatrical Makeup Artist

Working in theatrical makeup can be an intensely satisfying and fascinating career choice for art loving and people oriented folks who enjoy being part of the creation process. However, as with any skill, education and hard work at just as important as talent and interest.

1. Volunteer locally. If you’re interested in getting your feet wet in working with theatrical makeup then volunteering at your local community theater can be a great way to begin. Not only will you have the benefit of learning from those whom have come before you, but you also get immediate experience in the theater work pipeline. Be sure you help out in as many departments as possible during a production. You’ll want to work with costuming as well as wig and hair styling, as today’s theatrical makeup artists are expected to be able to wear multiple hats behind the scenes in order to keep production costs down.


2. Get educated. Attending a university and receiving a formal education in the theatrical arts, beauty and styling and hair design not only makes you more competitive for the few true permanent production venues still around, it will also offer you a secondary source of income should the theater find itself in financial difficulties and you find yourself in need of another means of employment.  Universities provide the additional benefit of often working hand in hand with the people in your areas of interest that will be looking to fill a future opening in your desired career. 


3. Build a portfolio. Every successful makeup and hair session should be photographed as soon as possible and the photos placed into a dedicated folder in order to provide you with a visual guide for reproduction. After the production has ended, ask your friends and family to act as your canvas while you recreate those successful looks and styling inside a photographer’s studio where they can be professionally photographed and added to your portfolio. 


4. Get a dedicated website. Scan the professional photographs of your successful makeup and styles into your computer and place them in an online gallery portfolio on your website so that those interested in hiring you have direct access to an assessment of your skills and a means of contacting you. 


5. Consider expansion into film. Theater productions are not as numerous as they once were and the popularity of television and film has managed to flourish. The hiring of an agent to represent your interests and introduce your name and work to contacts in the film and television industries might be a good way to secure your financial interests whilst still permitting you to do what you love.