Although makeup for The Addams Family is a bit different than some other shows, some of our approach will be similar to past Muse productions. We ask that all of you provide certain parts of your own makeup, and we will provide others. Here’s what we mean:

Students provide:

• Base: We are not asking any performers to purchase stage makeup. This can simply be the sort of powder foundation someone might pick up in any discount store. The purpose is to take the shine off your face under stage lighting. This should be approximately your own natural skin tone. Even the Ancestors begin with natural color. Fester is the only exception.

• Eyeliner: Regardless of your gender, use eyeliner to help the eyes remain seen from a distance under stage lighting.

• Eye shadow for hollowing (Ancestors): Please purchase eyeshadow that is several shades darker than your own skin tone. You will apply this not only above the eye, but around it, to create the effect of the eye sockets being somewhat hollowed out. It’s not an extreme black eye effect (like Fester), but should be noticeable. To pick your shade, ask yourself: would someone 50′ away from me definitely be able to see that the area around my eyes was darker? Don’t add other colors here – use darker shades of your skin tone.

• Additional makeup for female characters: Most of the female characters would likely have worn makeup (think about them when they were alive, in the case of the Ancestors). This likely means lipstick and perhaps some additional makeup. Any color on the Ancestors should be muted – not bright red lips, etc.

• Wipes or cleanser of your choice to remove makeup each night.

• Put your name on every piece!

Muse will provide:

• A pale makeup that you will use, with a brush, to lightly add an unearthly shade to your face. Your normal color will be visible and this will be a second, light layer. Each Ancestor will receive their own.

• The brushes for that pale makeup will also be provided (one for each Ancestor).

Remember:

The desired effect is not something from a horror movie. The Ancestors are happy to be back for their reunion — they sing and dance through the show and are often funny. Take a light touch with the makeup so that you look a bit different but not scary.

When do you bring makeup?

Bring everything with you to the rehearsal on Monday, June 13.

What about hair?

Before we get to the theatre next week, experiment with your hair. To the best of your ability, recreate a style that is suitable for the period and character you are playing. Be sure it is held in place securely for the dances. Your hair will be your normal color (no unnatural colors).

Principals:

Most of the guidelines above still apply. Beinekes don’t require the undead makeup, nor do most of the Addams family members. Fester, Lurch, Grandma and Gomez: please speak to Doug this week.