By TANIA PHILLIPS
THERE are probably few more challenging jobs in theatre make-up than Wind In the Willows – what with toads and badgers and moles.
So it’s hardly surprising that when the Murwillumbah Theatre Company was presenting “Willows” the students from the Kingscliff TAFE diploma in specialist make-up were only too happy to join in and help.
Pantomime director Bryanne Jardine and TAFE teacher Elisa Stefanovic believe the collaboration between the two groups was a ‘win-win’ situation.
“For the students, it provides a platform for them to gain experience in theatre make-up and the theatre company will benefit from the talents of the students’ work,” Bryanne said.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the students’ involvement in this production; they are professional and very organised.
“I provided them with an overview of the characters with an idea of the effect I was expecting to achieve of the balance between the make-up and the costumes.
“The students offered some great suggestions and opened my eyes to how this could be achieved. I look forward to working with them on future productions.”
Elisa said she had always been confident of her students talents and that they would shine.
“The diploma of specialist make-up students are currently in their 12th week of a 24-week course and are demonstrating real flair and enthusiasm for this industry,” she said.
“They were extremely excited to be involved in this project.”
To establish effective communication with the director and the cast the student’s appointed a team leader, Jess Hadfield.
“Initially we were all very nervous, yet we could see the amazing opportunity this volunteer work presented so we worked as a team and overcame our fears,” Jess said.
“It has given us a great insight into career options and directions we can pursue within the industry.”
The students will be back in action on Melbourne Cup Day at Byron Bay Golf Club where they have been asked to volunteer their time to make up the models for an African-inspired fashion parade.
The event is being organised by the African LEAF Charity, to raise money for orphaned or abandoned children in Africa.
The play wraps up this weekend. Tickets are $12 adults and $6 children and are available at Murwillumbah Music 02 6672 5404 and Tweed Tourism 1800 674 414.
