I in fact got called upon to help out with Matilda for the Community Players of Salisbury and then got called upon to do Makeups for Legally Blonde Jr with the Ocean Pines Children's Theater. Then I had a small window where I got to clean up after the Ocean City ComicCon and I got to do some makeups for a whirlwind private session. I actually had 3 models to do makeups on and then was tasked with doing the photos when my normal photographer was unable to be there but loaned me the equipment. I learned alot and now have 3 more models who loved the experience. It was fun but a bit frazzling and now I know how to better manage my time and supplies for next go round. I also learned that I need lessons on how to get the best images from a DSLR camera.
I am now helping another budding makeup artist learn some simple tricks and tips for her school Fantasy Makeup Challenges which she is probably going a bit more Gore than her school is used to. Realizing that these girls are more versed in beauty makeup than in Special FX we are walking the fine line between the full Gore I could teach her and the simpler quick tricks that most folks learn for Halloween. Mostly because of budget and the fact she has a 1 hour application window that truly limits what she can achieve. Her teacher and former director we have both worked for has also asked me to be on hand behind the scenes to help with basic bald cap applications for Uncle Fester in an upcoming Addams Family school production where she is in charge of the makeups. He also has in mind inviting me to give basic theatrical makeup lecture to his drams classes sometime.
Keep good relations and an open ear to any directors you work with. I find that my willingness to work and listen have helped establish a good rapport with most of the directors I have worked with in the past. This has lead to them calling me back each time they have a chance to put on another production. I am flexible and willing to work with other artisit's when scheduling timelines mean I can not achieve everything that is needed. I do still have actors who will either consult with me before going out or ask specifically for me to do their hair or makeup for shows, but I always try to channel the directors vision when I am involved in helping them bring their show to life. This often means that I am around while the cast are rehearsing lines or running scenes. I sometimes will even consult with or help with the wardrobe if they need it for quick changes as it helps me get a feel for the actors and the roles they are assuming. Overall it helps everyone bring the role to life as a cohesive image.
So be willing to work but know your limitations. Be open to both give and accept help. I work with adults and children alike who have been doing drama longer than me so I will often step back if I feel the actor knows what to do and how to do it. The director will give us both pointers if he feels we are off track and then we work as a team to find ways to fine tune a look. In working with large groups and small staff this is key to getting everyone out in time. Moving forward I have made new contacts and tenative talks are in the works for additional projects but more on that as they develop. I have a stint as a leprechaun, a comic convention and then a road trip to New York all before Easter roles around with more theatrical productions and face painting work kicks into high gear. That leaves a short respite before Addams Family & Kiss Me Kate theater calls.