Question for Stage Makeup Gurus!

[EponineThenardier]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 2:26pm

What's an alternative to Ben Nye? Curious as to what Broadway performers use: Is it MAC? I've used Ben Nye all the way through college and community stuff and it just cakes on and is rough on the skin. Looking for an alternative.

Thanks~!

[CATSNYrevival]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 3:04pm

I'm not at all an expert. You may want to PM TheatreDiva90016. I know MAC is usually listed in the playbill for most Broadway shows, but that just means that it was provided. Whether or not the actors actually use it is another story. If I were you I would just find a make-up that works best for your skin and looks good on stage and don't necessarily worry about the name.

[justagirl2]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 3:12pm

MAC is a really, really good brand. It was originally designed to be stage makeup, and has worked very well for me in the past. It is a little pricey, but I use it off the stage too, so I'd say it's worth it. If you're a pro, they also have a discount they offer for performers if you fit the criteria.

[SNAFU]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 3:18pm

If you are in or near NYC call Alcone. They will carry the various brands of theatrical make-up and may be able to steer you in the direction of a product that will suit your needs.

[singtopher]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 5:22pm

I recently did a show where MAC was provided for me, and I'm never going back to that Ben Nye crap.

[EponineThenardier]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 5:35pm

Thanks for the tips everyone. I'll gonna look at going all MAC from now on, worth the money I'm sure, I use some of their stuff for everyday and it seems to work great.

[singtopher]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 5:54pm

Make sure you get the performers discount. While I'm not positive about the process, I believe you have to present either and equity card or taxes showing you made a certain percentage of your income as a performer. The discount is only good at MAC stores not the MAC counter at Macy's.

[husk_charmer]

Posted: 12/7/09 at 9:11pm

I have a weird allergy to Ben Nye (makes me itch), so I've always used MAC. Expensive? You bet. Worth every dime? You bet.