A Show in the Life of... A Make-Up Artist

With only days left until our 2026 pantomime Aladdin takes to the stage, the whole team involved is hard at work perfecting every aspect of the production ready for our audiences, including the cast’s make-up. However, we were lucky enough to squeeze in a chat with Lisanne Stewart, our Make-up Artist for the show, to find out all about the role.

So Lisanne, at what stage do you usually get involved in a pantomime in terms of make-up?

Usually for pantos, I'll have a brief discussion with the director at some point in November, just confirming what they generally want. Then it's searching for ideas until we know the colours for people's costumes! During technical and dress rehearsals, I'll get some practice in for the more complicated characters, typically your villains, fairies, dames, etc.

And what does the make-up role actually involve?

Lots of research and a steady hand, not to mention working on a time crunch. Some years I'll do up to ten people's make-up (not including my own) before curtain up! I also try to make the characters' looks both cohesive as a show and distinctive enough that they can all stand out individually. 

So how did you first get involved in Twyford Drama and when did you start doing make-up?

I first joined the group back in ’86 – originally as a prompt, but then I started performing on stage a few years after that. It wasn't until 2017 or so that I began doing make-up due to the previous make-up person being ill. 

What do you enjoy most about the role?

I enjoy being able to put the finishing touches on everyone's looks – and pranking the dames with 24-hour lipstick!

And is there anything you find particularly challenging?

Quick changes are always the toughest part of a show, some of the worst I’ve experienced being in Jungle Book where multiple cast members were rapidly switching from wolf to monkey and vice versa. Blithe Spirit was also a challenge as we had to paint one character completely grey in the span of about ten minutes. 

What skills are required for being in charge of make-up for a show?

Being able to prioritise who needs what done first is always important. As is making sure we have enough supplies of the correct make-up.

⁠Why is make-up important to productions?

It ties everything together – the characters look much more 'alive' as the lights can easily drown out faces. 

And finally, what can audience members expect from Aladdin?

Lots of fun, entertainment and audience participation!

If you haven’t got your tickets for Aladdin yet, there’s still time! Make sure you don’t miss out – buy yours today.