Wie ein Maskenbildner arbeitet | SWR Handwerkskunst

In the mask workshop at the Mainz State Theater, you might just lose your head—but fortunately, only as a silicone cast. For the opera *Der Chronoplan*, Guido Paefgen is crafting a lifelike bust of a singer, but many steps are required before the figure exactly matches its model. The live silicone cast forms the basis for the plasticine model. But it’s only after another cast is made that you get the skin-colored figure that will later be seen on stage. Guido Peafgen has been the head makeup artist at the Mainz State Theater since 2004. From subtle makeup to complete transformations and special effects, such as prosthetic body and facial parts, this profession is extremely diverse. The dual training program lasts three years. It’s not just about how to make performers look their best on stage; the curriculum includes a wealth of specialized technical skills, ranging from wig-making to the creation of plaster molds and latex prosthetics. CREDITS: Author: Jutta Kastenholz Camera: Susanne Dejung, Jan Parvu Sound: Jan Parvu Editing: Frank Rosam Graphics: Katharina Flamm Editors: Rolf Hüffer, Dorothee Eisinger Social Media Editor: Land und Leute RP Online Editorial Team