Circus is Creative Youth Development: Costume and Makeup

Costuming and makeup are integral to the performing arts experience. Young people are constantly “trying on” new identities.

Prescott Circus student smiling in clown makeup and yellow costume. Prescott Circus student in clown makeup, patterned costume, and blower hat holding three juggling balls.Prescott Circus student in clown makeup pulling a cross eyed face with a blank black backgroud. 

Our costuming and makeup curriculum offers a playful space for students to explore their identities – to be anyone they want to be. The PCT tradition of taking on a “clown name” gives students a voice in defining who they are in class and on the stage – and how they want to express themselves. 

We study how costumes are used in theater, circus, and life – from cultural signifiers, like the “ringleader,” to the functional necessity of the acrobats’ leotard. With clear rubrics, youth practice and refine their own costume and makeup styles to look their best and present themselves in a way they feel most proud when it’s time for the show. 

Checkout some 2024 student makeup lession highlights!

 

Learn more about Creative Youth Development! 

Creative Youth Development National Partnership

California Arts Council’s Creative Youth Development Program

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