Professional Stage Makeup Advice Every Performer Should Know.

Make-up

1.     Make sure brows are defined, arched and extended properly, especially for the very fair or dark skin tones.  Lack of brow creates a 'surprised' look and draws away from eyes.

2.     Skin should look even for all ages by using the correct foundation, especially where cheek color is applied to prevent overly flushed faces.  Avoid light reflecting Mineral make-up which can make the face look too fair and shiny under stage lights.  If foundation looks to light against the body try a darker powder shade instead of foundation, to look more natural. Powder is a must to avoid excessive shine.

3.     Eye shadow should look blended and in neutral colors that do not fight with different costume changes. Avoid bright colors like blue, green, or purple eye shadow.  Bright color is for theme looks only.

4.     Eyeliner should be left open at the outer eye corners so eyes do not look closed and small.  Beware too much black eye liner unless the theme calls for that look, and never on the lower lid ridge.

5.     Wear false lashes.  They do open eyes!

6.     Cheek color should be in a red tone, blended and applied correctly to avoid red stripes along cheekbones.  Use a contour cheek shade (pink/brown) to define features.

7.     Lipstick should be used with a lip liner to shape lips. Lip liner needs to be blended over most of lips to avoid showing.  Don't forget, the most important part of the mouth is the sides.  Keep sides of lips full for profile views.

8.     Don't let lips get too dry as lipstick wears off fast.  Treat lips regularly.

9.     Be cautious when using glitter.  Apply only to key light catching points and never on male dancers.

10.  When wearing a hat, especially ones with brims that cast shadows, be sure to dress up lips using gloss, glitter or a dramatic lip color. 

11.  When performing a classical ballet or any number that is ethereal, try to highlight with shimmer powder cheekbones and eyes. Matte faces looks plain and dull.

12. When lot's of skin is exposed on the back or midriff, add a shimmer lotion or powder over bare areas.  For glitzy costuming, dress up your skin with glitter spray.

13. Remember the themes of your number.  Era 1940's strong eyeliner on the upper lid/strong lips, 1960's black and white shadow /white lips or 1980's electric bright shadow and lips.

14. Make-up for traditional or cultural numbers like Clogging, African or Latin should stay with the look of that culture.

15. Avoid too many rhinestones.  Neck chokers, earrings, bracelets or hair jewels, choose two and keep it simple.

Professional Judges notes on performing:

1.  When performing unless it's part of the number avoid mouthing the words.  It's distracting.

2.  Don't move music tempo faster than the song.  Need a faster tempo?  Find one.

3.  Watch undergarments.  Be sure they match and do not show under costume.

4.  Watch facial expressions.  Don't make faces (look strained, lips puckered) instead make eye contact and smile.

5. Wear costumes that are secure to avoid embarrassing wardrobe problems.