Module 6: Theatre Stage Makeup

In this module, you’ll travel back in time to explore the history of makeup and how it has been used in theatre across cultures and eras. You’ll learn how makeup for the stage differs from film and TV, and how lighting, distance, and characterisation affect your designs.

You’ll also create historical period makeups and iconic theatrical characters—such as the Geisha or traditional clown—adapting authentic styles to meet modern audience expectations.

Module 6 Preview — Makeup

Why This Module Matters

Theatre makeup requires exaggerated, durable, and character-driven designs. This module equips you with the skills to bring characters to life on stage while deepening your understanding of historical and cultural influences.

Explore how lighting affects stage makeup.
Design and apply authentic historical looks.
Adapt period styles for contemporary audiences.
Create iconic theatrical characters through makeup.

By the end, you’ll be confident designing impactful stage looks that read clearly from a distance and under varied lighting.

What You’ll Learn

Theatre Makeup Principles
Understand the demands of stage makeup and how it differs from camera-focused work.
Lighting & Stage Considerations
Learn how coloured lights and distance affect the visibility and impact of makeup.
Historical Period Makeup
Explore authentic period looks and develop research skills for accurate design work.
Character & Clown Makeup
Practise creating theatrical characters such as Geisha or clowns with creative flair.

What You’ll Do

Apply Theatre Makeup Principles
Apply theatre makeup techniques that consider lighting and stage requirements.
Design Historical Period Makeup
Design and apply authentic historical makeup looks drawn from your research.
Adapt Period Looks for Today
Adapt historical designs to appeal to modern audiences while keeping key elements.
Create Theatrical Characters
Create character makeups—such as Geisha or clowns—that communicate a clear concept.

Module Topics

In Module 6, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

Introduction
Theatre Stage Makeup
Designing the Makeup
Lighting and Makeup
Employment in the Theatre
How to Collaborate in a Creative Process
Basic Male Makeup Techniques for Theatre
Historical Period Makeup
Period-Based Productions
Authentic Makeup vs. Interpretations
Ancient Egyptian Period
Ancient Roman Period
Ancient Greek Period
Medieval and Renaissance Periods
Tudor and Elizabethan Periods
Stuart and Restoration Periods
Georgian Period
Regency Period
Victorian Period

Edwardian and George V Periods
1920s Period
1930s Period
1940s Period
1950s Period
1960s Period
1970s Period
1980s Period
Period Makeup Demonstrations
Ancient Egyptian Makeup
Georgian Makeup
Victorian Makeup
1920s Makeup
1980s Makeup
Common Theatrical Characters
Geisha Makeup
Clown Makeup
Traditional White-Faced Clown

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 6, you will:

Apply the principles of theatre makeup, considering lighting and stage requirements.
Design and apply authentic historical period makeups.
Adapt period looks to appeal to contemporary audiences.
Create theatrical character makeups such as Geisha or clowns.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our tutors will help you approach theatre makeup with both artistry and practicality. Their feedback will guide you in balancing authenticity, exaggeration, and creative expression for stage-ready results.