Inside Broadway: The Career of a Makeup Artist and Wig Maker

The World of Theater - Makeup Artist and Wig Maker

This week on How Much Can I Make?, Mirav gets the backstage scoop from Loryn Pretorius, a Broadway pro who’s built an exciting career as a makeup artist and wig maker for the theater world. Currently slaying it as the hair and makeup supervisor for Sunset Boulevard, Loryn leads a team of artists who help bring characters to life—one wig and brushstroke at a time.

This is a job that mixes high-level artistry with serious hustle. With a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and a background in fine art and art history, Loryn found a way to turn her creativity into a career that’s both thrilling and sustainable.

Thinking about a career change into something more creative—or curious what it’s really like behind the curtain? Loryn shares career insights, job tips, and the reality of working in a field where every detail matters. Whether you’re obsessed with Broadway or just love a good transformation story, this episode is full of glam, grit, and great advice.

See a video of Loryn building a wig.  https://www.howmuchcanimake.info/episodes/digital-nomad-matew-sthyb-h9e4a-ya3a4-6nke4

University of North Carolina School of Arts - Wig & Makeup Design

Playbill.com - Make Up

Exploring the Art of Theatrical Makeup and Costuming

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Music credit: Kate Pierson & Monica Nation