Makeup Plot
A Makeup Plot is a detailed plan or document used in opera and theater productions that outlines all the makeup requirements for performers. It's like a makeup instruction manual that shows how each character should look, including details about foundation, special effects, aging makeup, and other cosmetic elements. Stage managers and makeup artists use these plots to maintain consistency throughout performances and to help different makeup artists recreate the same looks, even when working with understudies or replacement cast members. Think of it as a blueprint or recipe book for character appearances in a production.
Examples in Resumes
Created detailed Makeup Plot for 20+ characters in Wagner's Ring Cycle
Maintained and updated Makeup Plot for touring production of La Bohème
Supervised makeup team using standardized Makeup Plot for consistency across 50 performances
Typical job title: "Makeup Artists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Makeup Artists
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage a makeup team for a large-scale opera production?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience coordinating multiple artists, maintaining consistency, budgeting, scheduling, and problem-solving during live productions. Should mention experience training others and documenting procedures.
Q: How do you handle last-minute cast changes regarding makeup plots?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of quick adaptation, maintaining detailed records, experience with different skin types and features, and ability to train other artists quickly on new requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you create a makeup plot that can be easily followed by other artists?
Expected Answer: Should discuss clear documentation methods, step-by-step instructions, photo references, product lists, and time management considerations.
Q: What considerations do you take into account when designing makeup for stage lighting?
Expected Answer: Should explain understanding of how stage lights affect makeup colors, durability needs under hot lights, and adaptation for different viewing distances.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information do you include in a basic makeup plot?
Expected Answer: Should mention character descriptions, product lists, application steps, reference photos, and timing requirements for each look.
Q: How do you ensure makeup continuity between performances?
Expected Answer: Should discuss photo documentation, detailed notes, organized storage of reference materials, and communication with other team members.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic makeup application techniques
- Following existing makeup plots
- Basic documentation skills
- Understanding of stage makeup products
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating detailed makeup plots
- Period and character makeup design
- Working with different skin types
- Quick-change makeup techniques
Senior (5+ years)
- Managing makeup departments
- Complex character transformations
- Training and supervising teams
- Budget management for makeup departments
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with theatrical or stage makeup
- Lack of documentation skills
- No understanding of lighting effects on makeup
- Poor time management with multiple characters
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