Depending on the size of the production and the requirements of the show, there may be separate positions for Hair and Make-Up Designers, or they may be a combined role.
What are the main responsibilities of a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designer?
- Working with the Director to understand their vision, and with the Costume Designer to create the overall looks for the characters
- Breaking down the script to work out hair and make-up requirements for each scene
- Research on particular historical periods if required
- Designing all wigs, hair and make-up elements
- Attending fittings, photoshoots and dress rehearsals
- Documenting the final looks in photographs so these can be followed closely by the wigs, hair and make-up team during the shows
What qualifications do you need to work in wigs, hair and make-up?
Often, academic qualifications are not as important as creative and practical skills. It’s possible to become a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designer without a degree. You can often complete traineeships and freelance work within the industry to gain experience. Qualifications or courses in hairdressing, wigs, make-up and design may be useful. Find training and experience opportunities in Wigs, Hair and Make-up from across the theatre industry here.
What skills do I need to be a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designer?
- An understanding of historical and cultural styles
- Technical wigs, hair and make-up knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Creativity and collaboration
- Time-management
What does a career as a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designer look like?
Designers may begin their careers learning technical skills in a specific field and begin as a trainee. It is common for Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designers to be freelance, and work on a project-by-project basis.
How much can a Wigs, Hair and Make-Up Designer earn?
A trainee can earn no less than the national minimum wage, or apprenticeship wage. Most Wigs, Hair and Make-up Designers work on a freelance basis on specific shows or touring productions.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
References
https://www.rsc.org.uk/about-us/how-we-make-theatre/wigs-and-make-up
https://www.liveabout.com/art-of-hair-and-makeup-designer-2638621
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/wig-and-makeup-designer-salary-SRCH_KO0,23.htm
Updated: 3rd June 2024
