Makeup masterclass for performers

THE product might have changed from grease paint to powders, gels and eye liners, but the excitement of making up for the stage is as palpable as ever.

A group of aspiring ballet dancers and their attentive mothers recently took part in masterclass in stage makeup, held by one of Australia’s leading makeup artists, Ben Davis, a former Australian Ballet dancer and now a leading makeup artist.

Davis performed with the Australian Ballet from 2005 – 2017, becoming a soloist in 2011. For Davis, getting ready for a performance, the makeup, the costumes, the camaraderie, was as nearly important and exciting as the
performance itself. Prior to leaving the company he was already becoming interested in the art of makeup, its ability to enhance a performance, as well as providing the possibility of extending the career of someone passionate about dance and theatre.

“I completed a Diploma in Specialist Makeup Services and my new career has never looked back,” Davis said.

“To share my knowledge and skills with young dancers is such a pleasure.

Mothers are often the people applying makeup to their children.”

Davis took participants through the stages of applying stage makeup.

While some of the principles are like a daily routine, Davis was able to demonstrate the tips of the trade to transform a one-dimensional face into something exciting that can be seen in a large theatre or auditorium.

Ultimately, the key to applying stage makeup is not to rush the process and to understand that what might look over the top when being applied will look totally different under 50 and 100 stage lights.

Layer by layer Davis transformed his young model’s face, initially focussing on her eyes – always where a performer should start, and moving on to define other areas.

Balletic owner, Michelle Bodey, said Davis workshop had been a benefit.

“It’s been a wonderful opportunity for both young dancers and their mothers to learn from a master craftsman,” she said.

“I know how lucky we are to have had Ben here to share his skills, and we are truly grateful.

I am confident that we will be seeing some eye catching makeup during upcoming performances at Her Maj and South Street competitions.”