STUDENTS from Warrington were the stars of the show this week as they enjoyed a dramatic masterclass in make-up at The Trafford Centre.

The class, from Warrington Collegiate, took premiere seats at the new Beauty Theatre - a miniature theatre on the Malls created to showcase dramatic make-up styles.

Festival

The theatre is a miniature performance space designed by The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, and plays host to a variety of live demos, talks and make-up masterclasses for the week-long festival.

Make-up artist Phillip Buck, from cult British make-up brand Illamasqua, took the students through their paces, teaching them a variety of techniques in the design of breath-taking faces.

It's hoped the styles learned by the class will come in useful for their forthcoming production of Alice In Wonderland.

"Inspirational"

Collegiate tutor Debbey Goodban said: "Our students are studying for a National Award in Production Arts (Make up), and their course focuses on make-up for performers. The students already provide the make-up for the in-house Performing Arts productions at the Collegiate, as well as other local groups and even fashion shows.

"The course also covers special effects make-up and fashion and photographic make up.

"The girls had an amazing day at The Trafford Centre, and the make-up artists at Illamasqua were fabulous, helpful and inspirational. The girls are going back in the week to watch other demonstrations and to get involved in other workshops that are taking place."

Roots

Cosmetics label Illamasqua is the product of a heady mix of influences; its roots stem from the dark and illicit 1920s club scene, and combines a rich heritage in the manufacture of make-up for film and theatre.

Said The Trafford Centre's Justin Webb: "We host many student visits very week - but this one really was a marriage made in heaven. With Illamasqua we have a very contemporary label with a background in theatre and the dramatic arts. Who better to reveal some tricks of the trade to a group of media make-up students?"

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