Essay:

In this essay, I will be discussing two different techniques used in theatre productions and special effects makeup that I will be using in my Bad End Night inspired theatre project.

One theatre technique I will use for my project is that of wig wrapping. Wig wrapping is a technique used in film, TV and theatre as well as other projects involving wigs to properly prepare the hair for a wig. It is important because it also protects the hair from damage; for example, from the intense amount of products that go into applying different types of wigs. Wig wrapping also ensures that the wig is as flat to the head as possible. Examples of wig wrapping include cornrows, pin curls, hair wraps or the washing machine method. The style of wig wrap a hair and makeup artist would use depends on the actors hair length/type (for example, an actor with textured hair would have cornrows, an actor with mid-length hair would have pin curls and an actor with long hair would have the washing machine method or a hair wrap.) Wig wrapping and wig application are an important part of the industry -particularly theatre- because wigs can be used for drastic or subtle quick changes that would be very difficult to complete with the actors real hair and, as mentioned before, these techniques are important because through these costume changes the actors hair will be protected and undamaged.

A special effects technique that I could use is the use of 3-Dimensional elements. 3D elements can be used in various parts of the makeup industry; high fashion, film/ TV, editorial and sometimes in theatre. An example of this is in Paris Fashion Week 2019, where Balenciaga had their models wear simple prosthetics that altered their face shapes, this had a big effect on the look as a whole because the model-and in turn, the brand- became unique and appealing. The use of 3D elements in theatre is useful because in this genre of performance the characters are often very extravagant and have a creative design- especially in pantomime theatre performance. Through the use of 3D elements in theatre makeup you can ensure that each character stands out, these elements can help give a character a personality, backstory and make them more memorable to the audience.

These techniques link to my character and my assessment because my character is a doll. By using my skills in wig styling and 3D elements in special effects, I will be able to create a character for the immersive world of a cursed play.

To conclude, these techniques will help me to progress in my assessments because once you understand them, you are able to adapt them in any way you want and to any assessment brief. These skills will more than likely help me improve my confidence and make my work better with each assessment.