FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SCHEDULING AND ATTENDANCE
What is the time commitment?
Students are only expected to come on the days when their scenes or songs are rehearsing. The entire rehearsal schedule is available online: DRAMA REHEARSAL SCHEDULE. Please also note that music and stage rehearsals are sometimes listed separately - make sure that you check ALL the events each day to see if you are needed onstage!
Most of the time, rehearsals run from right after school until 5:15. In late February and March, rehearsals will run longer as we move in to dress rehearsals. They may last as late as 6:00 or 7:00 in the weeks just before the performance.
From December through February the chorus will not be needed every day. (Some weeks, they may not be needed at all.) In March, the schedule does get more intense as we will be running the whole show and we will need everyone at almost every rehearsal in March.
Do I have rehearsal today?
There are 4 ways you can find out if you have rehearsal on a given day.
What is the attendance policy?
We understand that our students are very active and have many other commitments.
What do I do if I have to miss rehearsal?
If you know that you will be missing all or part of a rehearsal, you (or your parent) must fill out the absence form at by 1:00 on the day of the missed rehearsal. (Please note that this does not apply if you are absent from school that day.)
You are responsible for finding out what you missed. If we are blocking anything new that day or learning any new music, you will need to talk to your counterpart in the opposite cast to get those notes. The directors cannot reteach blocking at the next rehearsal.
What if there's a snow day?
If rehearsal is cancelled because of weather, you MUST check the rehearsal calendar. Mrs. Daigle will update the calendar as soon as possible. Some makeup days have been built into the schedule, however a missed rehearsal early in the week might affect other rehearsals that week. ALL ACTORS are responsible for checking the calendar before the next scheduled rehearsal for changes.
Students are only expected to come on the days when their scenes or songs are rehearsing. The entire rehearsal schedule is available online: DRAMA REHEARSAL SCHEDULE. Please also note that music and stage rehearsals are sometimes listed separately - make sure that you check ALL the events each day to see if you are needed onstage!
Most of the time, rehearsals run from right after school until 5:15. In late February and March, rehearsals will run longer as we move in to dress rehearsals. They may last as late as 6:00 or 7:00 in the weeks just before the performance.
From December through February the chorus will not be needed every day. (Some weeks, they may not be needed at all.) In March, the schedule does get more intense as we will be running the whole show and we will need everyone at almost every rehearsal in March.
Do I have rehearsal today?
There are 4 ways you can find out if you have rehearsal on a given day.
- (Preferred) Visit the Google Calendar shared with you in the Drama Club Google Classroom. This will tell you the scenes and songs we are rehearsing on a given day. Look to see if your character is required to be there.
- Listen to the morning announcements.
- Check the Drama board in front of the auditorium.
- Ask a friend.
What is the attendance policy?
We understand that our students are very active and have many other commitments.
- ACADEMICS ALWAYS COME FIRST. If you need to stay after school with a teacher, that takes first priority. However, you MUST notify us by 1:00 that day if you are supposed to be at rehearsal. At 3:50 (or whenever you are done with your teachers), come to rehearsal with a pass from your teacher.
- From November through early February, we are able to be somewhat flexible with students who have doctors’ appointments, dance classes, etc. If you know that you will have to miss a rehearsal, come late, or leave early, you must notify us by 1:00 that day in order for your absence to be excused.
- After February Break, we ask that Drama take priority over other activities (aside from academics). Please look at the schedule and plan accordingly! March is a very intense month as we put the final touches on the show and prepare for performances. Missing rehearsals at this point doesn’t just impact you, it also impacts your cast mates, who have to work around you, and your counterpart in the opposite cast, who will have to cover for you. We understand that emergencies and illnesses do happen and are sometimes unavoidable, however please schedule any planned appointments or classes around the Drama schedule in March.
- If you are sick and absent from school, or are sent home during the school day, you are automatically excused from Drama rehearsal. You do not have to fill out an absence slip; however if it is possible to contact your counterpart in the opposite cast as a courtesy to let them know that they will have to cover for you, we ask that you do so.
- ATTENDANCE AT ALL DRESS REHEARSALS AND PERFORMANCES IS MANDATORY.
- Excused absences are granted ONLY if an absence form is filled out in advance for:
- School activities (e.g. Academy classes, extra help, music groups, etc).
- Approved out-of-school activities, family obligations, etc.
- Absence from school due to illness (Note that this is automatically excused. There is no need to fill out an absence form if you are home sick or go home sick.)
- Students who have many excused absences may be asked to demonstrate mastery of the missed material and/or attend extra rehearsals to catch up on what was missed.
- Unexcused absences are given if we do not get a form in advance or if the reason for missing rehearsal is not valid. ALL missed dress rehearsals and performances count as “unexcused”, no matter the reason.
- Consequences for students who have 2 or more “unexcused” absences may include: A “performance quiz” to demonstrate mastery of the missed material, extra rehearsals to catch up on what was missed, demotion to a smaller part, removal from one or more performance, removal from the cast party, and/or removal from the cast entirely.
- Consequences will be given on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the director.
What do I do if I have to miss rehearsal?
If you know that you will be missing all or part of a rehearsal, you (or your parent) must fill out the absence form at by 1:00 on the day of the missed rehearsal. (Please note that this does not apply if you are absent from school that day.)
You are responsible for finding out what you missed. If we are blocking anything new that day or learning any new music, you will need to talk to your counterpart in the opposite cast to get those notes. The directors cannot reteach blocking at the next rehearsal.
What if there's a snow day?
If rehearsal is cancelled because of weather, you MUST check the rehearsal calendar. Mrs. Daigle will update the calendar as soon as possible. Some makeup days have been built into the schedule, however a missed rehearsal early in the week might affect other rehearsals that week. ALL ACTORS are responsible for checking the calendar before the next scheduled rehearsal for changes.
REHEARSAL POLICIES
Can I bring a snack?
Yes, you may bring a healthy, non-messy, nut-free snack! Nothing that will leave a stain if spilled. Clear liquids (i.e. water) only, same as during the school day. If you make a mess, you are responsible for cleaning it! There are trash cans in the auditorium for crumbs and wrappers.
Snacks must only be eaten when you are not needed on stage. Snack time is not social time! If you are eating, you must do it quickly and quietly.
SNACKS EATEN IN THE AUDITORIUM OR CAFETERIA MUST BE NUT-FREE. For food safety reasons, please do not share snacks with other students.
Can I use my phone or Chromebook during rehearsal?
We do allow students to use their phones and Chromebooks or other devices during rehearsal, as long as they follow these basic guidelines.
Can I do my homework during rehearsal? What else should I be doing if I’m not onstage?
YES, we encourage students to do their homework when they are not actively rehearsing! Drama rehearsal is never an excuse for missing homework. You may also read, use your device quietly, or sit and watch the rehearsal if your homework is done. However, when your counterpart in the opposite cast is onstage, you should be sitting in the front, watching, listening to the directors, and taking notes.
I forgot something in my locker.
Please bring everything you need to go home with you to rehearsal! If you forget something and need to go to your locker, you must ask permission. Permission will only be granted before 3:50.
No students may be in the classroom hallways or locker areas after 3:50.
Can I go to the bathroom/get a drink/call my parents?
Yes, students may use the water filling stations and bathrooms that are located in the lobby area. Please try to communicate with your parents before rehearsal, but if you do need to make or take a phone call, you may do so in the lobby outside the auditorium.
You must ask permission if you are leaving the rehearsal area for any reason. However, you may NOT interrupt the directors in the middle of a scene. Wait until we are transitioning between casts, setting up a new scene, or when we give you a break,
Yes, you may bring a healthy, non-messy, nut-free snack! Nothing that will leave a stain if spilled. Clear liquids (i.e. water) only, same as during the school day. If you make a mess, you are responsible for cleaning it! There are trash cans in the auditorium for crumbs and wrappers.
Snacks must only be eaten when you are not needed on stage. Snack time is not social time! If you are eating, you must do it quickly and quietly.
SNACKS EATEN IN THE AUDITORIUM OR CAFETERIA MUST BE NUT-FREE. For food safety reasons, please do not share snacks with other students.
Can I use my phone or Chromebook during rehearsal?
We do allow students to use their phones and Chromebooks or other devices during rehearsal, as long as they follow these basic guidelines.
- When a teacher or adult is talking to you (this includes general addresses to the group), your phone is off and your Chromebook is closed.
- We ask that you not record rehearsals unless you are specifically informed that you may (for example, a teacher tells you that you can use your phone to record a song).
- NO PHONES ONSTAGE OR BACKSTAGE.
- If you need to take or make a call, please do so in the lobby so you are not disrupting those onstage. Try to avoid calls if possible - make arrangements for rides in advance!
- Do not let your device become a disruption.
Can I do my homework during rehearsal? What else should I be doing if I’m not onstage?
YES, we encourage students to do their homework when they are not actively rehearsing! Drama rehearsal is never an excuse for missing homework. You may also read, use your device quietly, or sit and watch the rehearsal if your homework is done. However, when your counterpart in the opposite cast is onstage, you should be sitting in the front, watching, listening to the directors, and taking notes.
I forgot something in my locker.
Please bring everything you need to go home with you to rehearsal! If you forget something and need to go to your locker, you must ask permission. Permission will only be granted before 3:50.
No students may be in the classroom hallways or locker areas after 3:50.
Can I go to the bathroom/get a drink/call my parents?
Yes, students may use the water filling stations and bathrooms that are located in the lobby area. Please try to communicate with your parents before rehearsal, but if you do need to make or take a phone call, you may do so in the lobby outside the auditorium.
You must ask permission if you are leaving the rehearsal area for any reason. However, you may NOT interrupt the directors in the middle of a scene. Wait until we are transitioning between casts, setting up a new scene, or when we give you a break,
STAGE CREW
When are stage crew signups?
The signup meeting will be on TBA from 2:50-3:50 in the small gym. If you want to be on a stage crew, you must attend this meeting!
What crews are available to join?
Can I sign up for more than one?
We advise students to have 2 or 3 different crews in mind because we allow students to sign up by seniority (that is, 8th grade gets first choice, then 7th, etc). This means that 5th graders may not get their first choice when it comes to which crew they will be on. However, students can only be a member of one crew at a time.
The signup meeting will be on TBA from 2:50-3:50 in the small gym. If you want to be on a stage crew, you must attend this meeting!
What crews are available to join?
- Lights: Run the light board and man the spotlights.
- Sound: Run the sound board and coordinate actors’ microphones backstage.
- Props: Work in the props room, organizing props and handing them to actors.
- Stage: Set moving.
- Runners: Communication between the directors and the actors and crew during performances.
- Ushers and concessions: These volunteers usually only work for one performance, taking tickets, handing out programs, and working the concessions table during intermission.
Can I sign up for more than one?
We advise students to have 2 or 3 different crews in mind because we allow students to sign up by seniority (that is, 8th grade gets first choice, then 7th, etc). This means that 5th graders may not get their first choice when it comes to which crew they will be on. However, students can only be a member of one crew at a time.
For Parents
When and where should I pick up my child after rehearsal?
Please check the Google Calendar for rehearsal end times (you may have to click on the event). In general, rehearsals in January through mid-March end at 5:15, but in late February and March we start going later. Please check what time your child needs to be picked up and be prompt! All our directors and adult staff have families and obligations of their own and we cannot stay late after rehearsal.
Drama students are dismissed through the main lobby to the front circle (off of Harding Ave.) The security team at MKMS has asked us to remind you that when picking up your child, you should not:
What should I do if my child has to miss rehearsal?
If your child stays home sick that day, we will get an attendance report from the office. If he or she will miss all or part of a rehearsal for any other reason, either you or your child must fill out the attendance form by 1:00pm.
I would like to volunteer, but I don't have a lot of free time.
Trust us, we understand! Every year our performance simply could not go on without the tireless work of our amazing parent volunteers. There are always more jobs that need to be done, which is why we ask each year that every parent sign up to volunteer for at least one committee. But not every committee needs the same kind of time commitment - many of them only require a single evening, or have things you can help us with from home.
Please check the Google Calendar for rehearsal end times (you may have to click on the event). In general, rehearsals in January through mid-March end at 5:15, but in late February and March we start going later. Please check what time your child needs to be picked up and be prompt! All our directors and adult staff have families and obligations of their own and we cannot stay late after rehearsal.
Drama students are dismissed through the main lobby to the front circle (off of Harding Ave.) The security team at MKMS has asked us to remind you that when picking up your child, you should not:
- Double-park in the circle
- Park or block traffic in the street
- Use the MKMS entrance to perform U-turns on Harding Ave.
- Allow your child to cut across the circle rather than use the sidewalks
What should I do if my child has to miss rehearsal?
If your child stays home sick that day, we will get an attendance report from the office. If he or she will miss all or part of a rehearsal for any other reason, either you or your child must fill out the attendance form by 1:00pm.
I would like to volunteer, but I don't have a lot of free time.
Trust us, we understand! Every year our performance simply could not go on without the tireless work of our amazing parent volunteers. There are always more jobs that need to be done, which is why we ask each year that every parent sign up to volunteer for at least one committee. But not every committee needs the same kind of time commitment - many of them only require a single evening, or have things you can help us with from home.
- Advertising/Publicity: Selling program ads to local businesses, and distributing signs around town to advertise the show. Time commitment is very flexible and is mostly in March and April.
- Cast Party: Organizing, planning, and supervising the Cast Party after the final performance. Ahead of time, we will need people to help plan and coordinate food, entertainment, etc.
- Concessions: You can sign up for one performance or more, selling snacks and water in the lobby during intermission.
- Costumes: If you have any sewing skills, we need your help! You can coordinate with our costumes head to work on pieces at home on your own time. We will also need a few parents during dress rehearsals and performances to be on hand to keep the costume racks organized and to help with last minute fittings and repairs (think safety pins and tape).
- Hair and Makeup: Volunteers come in about an hour before a dress rehearsal or performance, to help students apply their stage makeup and do their hair. You can sign up for one "shift" or several. No experience required!
- Backstage Chaperones: Starting in March, the students move into the cafeteria to wait in between their scenes. Because the directors are still needed in the auditorium, we ask for parent volunteers to supervise the kids in the cafeteria. You can sign up for one day, or as many as you're available. Note that an MKMS staff member will also be on hand to help supervise.
- Props: Every year we have a long (and often bizarre) list of items that we need for props. Volunteers help us find, borrow, or make them; organize the prop room; and help supervise the students on the props crew. Many of the tasks can be done at home on your own, especially if you are at all crafty!
- Set Building: Our builders usually start work in late February or March, and meet at the school after rehearsals and on weekends.
- Set Painting: Once the sets are built, they need to be painted, which usually happens in late February and into March. Again, set painting happens on-site at the school in the evenings or on weekends. Skilled painters may also be needed to work with props.
- Set Moving: While much of the work is done by the student sets crew, we always need parent volunteers to help supervise and keep an eye on safety. We start working with sets in March, and for the sake of both safety and efficiency we would ask that the same group of parent volunteers be available for most of the rehearsals and performances. Note that an MKMS staff member will also be on hand to supervise the sets crew.
- T-shirts: Once the t-shirt order comes in early April, we will need some volunteers to help sort, label, and distribute them to the students.
AUDITIONS
Do I have to memorize anything?
No! We highly recommend that you read through the audition scenes and listen to the songs before your audition so that you are familiar with them, but you do not have to memorize anything.
What happens in the auditions?
We hold group auditions by grade. That means that you will be reading, and singing, in front of the directors and the other students there with you. After quick warmups, we start scene reading. Each scene in the audition packet calls for several actors. You will be assigned a scene and a part to read and you will get up with the other students in your group and perform it for the directors. We try to give each student the opportunity to read at least twice, time permitting.
Then we break out into voice groups to learn the audition song. Higher voices and lower voices will each learn a brief section of one of the songs from the play. Once everyone has had a chance to learn their song, we go back to the auditorium and you will sing it on your own.
Do I have to sing?
No, you do not have to sing. However, if you choose not to sing in your audition, we cannot consider you for a singing role. You may still be cast in the chorus or for a small part with only speaking lines.
How do I audition for a specific part? I was asked to read lines for a character, does that mean that's who I'll be cast as?
We don't have students audition for particular roles. Instead, we will ask you what kind of part you are interested in - the chorus, a minor role, or a main lead. We may also ask if you have any performing skills such as dance that would be helpful for a certain part.
Just because you read one character's lines in the audition, that doesn't mean that you will only be considered for that part! We try to pick audition scenes that showcase a wide variety of roles and talents so we get a good idea of each actor's strengths. But you might read one part and then be cast in a role that wasn't even in the audition packet! The same goes for the songs. Please don't worry too much about which character you think you "should" read for.
What are callbacks?
Oftentimes after seeing every student audition once, there are some students we would like to see again. We may want to have them read a particular scene, or have them act opposite another student to see how they work together. Sometimes we ask you to sing a different song than you sang in your first audition. We are just trying to gather as much information as we can in order to make the best casting decisions.
Please do not read too much into whether or not you get a callback. Getting a callback is not a guarantee of a major part! Likewise, just because you don't get a callback, it does not necessarily mean that we are not still considering you for a part. Again, callbacks are just for the directors to get more information about you as a performer.
No! We highly recommend that you read through the audition scenes and listen to the songs before your audition so that you are familiar with them, but you do not have to memorize anything.
What happens in the auditions?
We hold group auditions by grade. That means that you will be reading, and singing, in front of the directors and the other students there with you. After quick warmups, we start scene reading. Each scene in the audition packet calls for several actors. You will be assigned a scene and a part to read and you will get up with the other students in your group and perform it for the directors. We try to give each student the opportunity to read at least twice, time permitting.
Then we break out into voice groups to learn the audition song. Higher voices and lower voices will each learn a brief section of one of the songs from the play. Once everyone has had a chance to learn their song, we go back to the auditorium and you will sing it on your own.
Do I have to sing?
No, you do not have to sing. However, if you choose not to sing in your audition, we cannot consider you for a singing role. You may still be cast in the chorus or for a small part with only speaking lines.
How do I audition for a specific part? I was asked to read lines for a character, does that mean that's who I'll be cast as?
We don't have students audition for particular roles. Instead, we will ask you what kind of part you are interested in - the chorus, a minor role, or a main lead. We may also ask if you have any performing skills such as dance that would be helpful for a certain part.
Just because you read one character's lines in the audition, that doesn't mean that you will only be considered for that part! We try to pick audition scenes that showcase a wide variety of roles and talents so we get a good idea of each actor's strengths. But you might read one part and then be cast in a role that wasn't even in the audition packet! The same goes for the songs. Please don't worry too much about which character you think you "should" read for.
What are callbacks?
Oftentimes after seeing every student audition once, there are some students we would like to see again. We may want to have them read a particular scene, or have them act opposite another student to see how they work together. Sometimes we ask you to sing a different song than you sang in your first audition. We are just trying to gather as much information as we can in order to make the best casting decisions.
Please do not read too much into whether or not you get a callback. Getting a callback is not a guarantee of a major part! Likewise, just because you don't get a callback, it does not necessarily mean that we are not still considering you for a part. Again, callbacks are just for the directors to get more information about you as a performer.
MAKEUP
Do boys really need to wear makeup? Do I really need ALL of this stuff?
Yes, and yes. Stage makeup is very different from everyday makeup. The purpose of stage makeup is to outline and darken your features so that they can be seen by the audience. Without makeup, your face will look like a blank mask. EVERY actor needs ALL of the required products!
Help! I’ve never worn eye makeup. How do I apply all this stuff?
We will have a brief class on makeup application before our first dress rehearsal. There is also a video here to help you! Please take note of these, even if you normally wear everyday makeup - stage makeup is applied very differently!
Why do I need two different eye pencils?
The black eye pencil is to outline your eyes and blend into your lashes. The brown pencil is to darken your eyebrows. If you have black or dark brown hair, you may skip the brown pencil and use the same black pencil on both your eyes and your brows.
What do you mean by “neutral” blush?
“Neutral” in this case means having a slightly more brown or tan base, rather than bright pink. It should look like your natural skin tone, but darker. Bronzer is also acceptable, as long as it is not shimmery.
The same goes for lipstick. Look for "nude" shades that are slightly darker than your natural lips. (If you have dark skin, you may find that you need to go a little pinker in shade in order to make your lips stand out - that's fine!)
What about foundation?
Foundation (aka base) is optional. If your complexion is a little uneven (we’ve all been there!) you may find that foundation will even out your skin tone and make your features more noticeable from the audience. You may also want to use concealer just to cover up targeted trouble spots. However, if you are not used to wearing makeup you may find that wearing full coverage irritates your face or makes existing skin problems worse. Foundation is not required.
My face doesn’t get shiny. Do I really need powder?
Trust us… the combination of heat, bright lights, and nerves makes EVERYONE’S face shiny on stage! Powder actually serves two purposes - it keeps light from bouncing off your face, but it also helps to set your makeup and keep it from running or fading over the course of the show. For that reason, we ask that all actors wear sheer or translucent face powder. (Loose powder works best, but pressed powder is fine too!)
How do I take this stuff off?
We recommend a 2-step makeup removal and cleaning process. First, as soon as possible, use a product that is specifically designed for makeup removal to take off as much as possible. Popular options are:
SAFETY AND HYGIENE
Can I share makeup with my sibling or friend?
NO. I realize it’s tempting to have your parents buy just one mascara to share with your sister, or to grab your friend’s lipstick the night of a performance. But DON’T. That’s how bacteria spreads. Everyone’s face chemistry is different, so bacteria on your friend’s face that don’t bother her skin at all could wreak absolute havoc with yours! Even if you’re not sick, you CAN’T share makeup - or applicators! Once it has touched someone’s face, it is theirs permanently.
The ONLY way to safely share makeup supplies is to divide them up before they have touched anyone’s face. You can do this with larger packs of applicators or makeup wipes, and even with some lipsticks or powders. But the supplies must be kept in separate containers!
Remember: Other people’s faces are gross. Anything that has touched their face is gross. Don’t put anything gross on your own face.
Can I reuse my makeup from last year?
Use the following guide to determine if the items in last year’s makeup kit are still good:
My lips are irritated/My eye is all red/I have a weird thing on my face...
Stop using all your makeup and see Mrs. Norwell or Ms. Madonia immediately! Hopefully it is just a mild reaction to using a bunch of products your skin is not used to and it will clear up with a few days of rest. However, it could be an allergic reaction or an infection, in which case we will need to narrow down the culprit and get you new makeup right away.
If you notice a reaction at home and it’s accompanied by a fever, swelling, itching in your throat, or pain, tell your parents immediately. They will probably want to get you checked out by your doctor.
Yes, and yes. Stage makeup is very different from everyday makeup. The purpose of stage makeup is to outline and darken your features so that they can be seen by the audience. Without makeup, your face will look like a blank mask. EVERY actor needs ALL of the required products!
Help! I’ve never worn eye makeup. How do I apply all this stuff?
We will have a brief class on makeup application before our first dress rehearsal. There is also a video here to help you! Please take note of these, even if you normally wear everyday makeup - stage makeup is applied very differently!
Why do I need two different eye pencils?
The black eye pencil is to outline your eyes and blend into your lashes. The brown pencil is to darken your eyebrows. If you have black or dark brown hair, you may skip the brown pencil and use the same black pencil on both your eyes and your brows.
What do you mean by “neutral” blush?
“Neutral” in this case means having a slightly more brown or tan base, rather than bright pink. It should look like your natural skin tone, but darker. Bronzer is also acceptable, as long as it is not shimmery.
The same goes for lipstick. Look for "nude" shades that are slightly darker than your natural lips. (If you have dark skin, you may find that you need to go a little pinker in shade in order to make your lips stand out - that's fine!)
What about foundation?
Foundation (aka base) is optional. If your complexion is a little uneven (we’ve all been there!) you may find that foundation will even out your skin tone and make your features more noticeable from the audience. You may also want to use concealer just to cover up targeted trouble spots. However, if you are not used to wearing makeup you may find that wearing full coverage irritates your face or makes existing skin problems worse. Foundation is not required.
My face doesn’t get shiny. Do I really need powder?
Trust us… the combination of heat, bright lights, and nerves makes EVERYONE’S face shiny on stage! Powder actually serves two purposes - it keeps light from bouncing off your face, but it also helps to set your makeup and keep it from running or fading over the course of the show. For that reason, we ask that all actors wear sheer or translucent face powder. (Loose powder works best, but pressed powder is fine too!)
How do I take this stuff off?
We recommend a 2-step makeup removal and cleaning process. First, as soon as possible, use a product that is specifically designed for makeup removal to take off as much as possible. Popular options are:
- Makeup removal wipes like these or these. They are available in any drugstore by many different brands. Make sure you look for wipes that are specifically made for removing makeup, and are NOT exfoliating (those can be gritty and very harsh). If you can find ones designed for sensitive skin, even better.
- Micellar water and cotton balls.
- Most actors swear by Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser. Just smear it on and then wipe off with a soft washcloth. Please note if you go this route to make sure you look for the Cleanser and not the Dry Skin Cream - the jars looks almost the same!
SAFETY AND HYGIENE
Can I share makeup with my sibling or friend?
NO. I realize it’s tempting to have your parents buy just one mascara to share with your sister, or to grab your friend’s lipstick the night of a performance. But DON’T. That’s how bacteria spreads. Everyone’s face chemistry is different, so bacteria on your friend’s face that don’t bother her skin at all could wreak absolute havoc with yours! Even if you’re not sick, you CAN’T share makeup - or applicators! Once it has touched someone’s face, it is theirs permanently.
The ONLY way to safely share makeup supplies is to divide them up before they have touched anyone’s face. You can do this with larger packs of applicators or makeup wipes, and even with some lipsticks or powders. But the supplies must be kept in separate containers!
Remember: Other people’s faces are gross. Anything that has touched their face is gross. Don’t put anything gross on your own face.
Can I reuse my makeup from last year?
Use the following guide to determine if the items in last year’s makeup kit are still good:
- Clean and unused applicators, sponges, etc: Yes
- Mascara, foundation, anything liquid or cream: No. The oils will have gone rancid and they will be absolutely swarming with disgusting bacteria that you don’t want near your face. Pitch it.
- Powder blush, eyeshadow: Any dry powder should be OK. Just do a quick common-sense check - Does it have an “off” smell? Has it changed color or does it have streaks or patches of different colors? Any visible signs of contamination? If you notice any of those warning signs, toss the product - if not, you may reuse it.
- Lipsticks and eye pencils: Give them the smell/visual inspection above. If they pass, you can reuse them, with an additional safety step. Cut off the top, most recently used portion of the lipstick or pencil (you can sharpen the pencil, but make sure you take off a good portion of it.) This will let you start with a relatively fresh product. Please note that this does NOT apply to any lip colors that come in a tube with an applicator - those cannot be cleaned and must be tossed.
My lips are irritated/My eye is all red/I have a weird thing on my face...
Stop using all your makeup and see Mrs. Norwell or Ms. Madonia immediately! Hopefully it is just a mild reaction to using a bunch of products your skin is not used to and it will clear up with a few days of rest. However, it could be an allergic reaction or an infection, in which case we will need to narrow down the culprit and get you new makeup right away.
If you notice a reaction at home and it’s accompanied by a fever, swelling, itching in your throat, or pain, tell your parents immediately. They will probably want to get you checked out by your doctor.
