Guest Post by Sarah McGurk

Sarah McGurk's Guest post talks about the different ways make up is used in drama, it then goes into a step by step detailed method of how to apply the makeup just like they do in the play in the movie of "The Black Swan".

Have a read and see if you like it.

Guest post by Sarah McGurk

How makeup is used in drama

Makeup is a very important part of drama. It has been used as means of special effects, highlighting a certain part of the face and as stage makeup e.g to make the actor/actress’ eyes stand out to someone who is sitting further away from the stage. Makeup has been used in drama for centuries, it adds the whole “dramatic” effect on a person’s face or body, needed in drama. It makes a character more life-like and can portray an illusion in some cases.

This is how you apply stage makeup, it is very different to the makeup used on a day to day basis.

If you are a fan of ballet, Natalie Portman, or the movie "Black Swan” then this step by step makeup tutorial is for you, it highlights the importance of stage makeup used today, not just in Dramas but also in movies. 

Step 1: Using a black eyeliner pencil, define the outline of the swan’s eyes.

Step 2: Fill in using black cream makeup and set with a black eye shadow.

Step 3: Show a feather feel using light strokes of silver cream makeup.

Step 4: Line the inner line of your bottom lids with a red eyeliner pencil.

Step 5: Take down the colour of the skin using a white cream makeup.

Step 6: Use a light peach blush under the cheekbone to define the cheeks, and then brush a silver shadow over the peach for extra definition.

Step 7: Define the lips using three colours (plum, burgundy, black) that progressively get darker towards the outer corners.