Sara Mearns' Stage Makeup Tips

March 13, 2013

There’s something so magical about the transformation that occurs as you apply stage makeup. You’re watching yourself gradually becoming the character you’re about to play—whether that’s literally a character, or just, you know, the “Sasha Fierce” stage version of yourself. But it can also be a kind of meditative experience, a time to center yourself and clear your head before you snap into high-gear performance mode.

Racked NY
filmed New York City Ballet principal Sara Mearns (who’s also doing her own great video series for HuffPo) applying her stage makeup. It’s totally mesmerizing—plus she shares some tips and tricks that even us old-timers hadn’t heard of. (Contouring with blush on your eyes? Wearing two pairs of false eyelashes at once? Who knew?)

Take a look: