The Art of Transformation: A Wig Maker's Journey in Theatrical Hairstyling

In the world of theater, where every detail matters, the artistry of wig making and hairstyling plays a pivotal role in bringing characters to life. Meet our seasoned wig maker, Lindsey Ewing, whose journey into this fascinating craft was a serendipitous accident, sparked by an innate love for visual storytelling and character building.

Lindsey Ewing in front of the Alliance Theatre

The Accidental Wig Maker

"I got into wig making by accident," our expert reveals. "I initially pursued a career as a makeup artist, but the degree program I chose included wig making. From there, my passion for this unique art form blossomed." This unexpected turn led to a thriving career where creativity and precision blend seamlessly on the stage.

Crafting a Wig: A Labor of Love

Creating a wig from start to finish is an intricate process. It begins with renderings and discussions with costume designers and directors, followed by obtaining a head tracing of the performer. Measurements and hairline tracings are crucial, especially for custom wigs, which are meticulously made of full lace.

"I use a technique called ventilating," our expert explains. "Each hair is hand-tied into the fine lace, mimicking the natural density of a hairline. The goal is to have the wig blend seamlessly with the performer’s own hairline. A fitting before the wig hits the stage ensures it looks perfect and fits well, allowing time for any necessary adjustments."

Collaborative Creations

Working closely with directors and actors is essential in achieving the perfect look for a character. "I consider the overall vision of the show and the character, but I also want the actor to feel confident in what they’re wearing," she shares. "Collaboration on all levels is key to creating something truly special."

Overcoming Challenges

Designing wigs and hairstyles for the stage is not without its challenges. Fast scene changes often limit the ability to show the passage of time through hair changes. Additionally, using the performer's own hair can be time-consuming and unpredictable compared to a pre-styled wig.

Ensuring Durability

The rigors of live performance require wigs that can withstand intense use. "We treat wigs with the same care as real hair, using minimal products to avoid brittleness. We also have styling tricks to ensure that wigs hold up during movement and choreography," our wig maker explains.

Innovation and Ingenuity

Innovation is a hallmark of this craft. One memorable instance involved creating an 18th-century inspired wig using a lightweight lampshade base when time was short. "It worked perfectly," she recalls.

Evolution of the Craft

The field of theatrical wig making has evolved significantly. "I've learned to work with various machine-made wigs and understand the nuances of different hair textures," she notes. Diversity and attention to detail have become increasingly important, reflecting a broader range of real, diverse hair.

Advice for Aspiring Wig Makers

For those aspiring to enter the field, education and apprenticeships are invaluable. "You can’t expect to reach the level of those you admire immediately. Put in the work and stay open to learning new skills and techniques. The learning never ends," she advises.

Memorable Projects

Among the many projects, those that are more conceptual and contemporary stand out. "I love thinking outside the box and getting my creative juices flowing," she says.

Achieving Realism

Making wigs look realistic on stage involves customization and meticulous attention to detail. "The wig should sit naturally on the performer’s head, matching their skin tone and mimicking natural hair growth patterns," she explains. "Realistic wigs have a certain frizz and organic movement, just like natural hair."

Debunking Misconceptions

A common misconception is that all wigs look "wiggy." "This often stems from past experiences with poorly made wigs," she notes. "A good wig designer ensures that wigs look natural and blend seamlessly."

Staying Inspired

Staying inspired involves constantly observing other artists, researching historical hairstyles, and watching hairdressing tutorials. "Historical research plays a huge role in my designs, especially for period pieces. The silhouette of a hairstyle can make or break the look," she emphasizes.

Handling Quick Changes

Quick changes and last-minute adjustments are part of the job. "You have to be prepared for anything and use your skills to make it work. The audience usually doesn't notice if something goes slightly awry," she shares confidently.

Dream Project

When asked about a dream project, our expert envisions creating a character from start to finish, delving into every aspect of their story and expressing it through hair. "That would be an achievement for me," she says.

Through dedication, creativity, and a love for storytelling, our wig maker transforms hair into an art form, enhancing the magic of theater one strand at a time.