Careers.Broadway is intended to be a resource through which students and interested people of all ages find information and opportunities relating to careers in the Broadway industry. We have tried to include as much information as we could find, and we will update the site whenever more information comes to our attention. While many people are aware of the jobs that are visible when attending theatre (actors, musicians, ushers, etc.), there are many behind-the-scenes jobs that make shows happen as well. We hope you enjoy learning more about these exciting careers!

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Hair & Wig Designer

What does a Hair & Wig Designer do?

The HAIR & WIG DESIGNER transforms the ACTORS into their characters through the use of hair and wigs. HAIR & WIG DESIGNERS develop the look and style for each character’s hair (including facial and body hair) that will help convey the show’s time and location, and character’s personality. For wigs, they can make them, rent, or purchase them. Their responsibilities can also overlap with those of a COSTUME DESIGNER and/or the MAKE-UP ARTIST, as HAIR & WIG DESIGNERS help create the overall aesthetic for a character.

Skills

Attention to detail | Ability to work with hair and wigs | Ability to take care and maintain wigs | Research | Resourcefulness

Pathways

How to become a Hair & Wig Designer

Many colleges and universities offer degrees and concentrations in design, as well as opportunities working on student-led or official school productions. Broadway hair and wig designers often start out with a strong interest and passion for hair, transitioning this interest into a career. Those just starting out may want to explore available classes, workshops, tutorials, and volunteer or assistant opportunities available in their region for training and experience.

Union/Professional Organization Affiliations

IATSE Make-up Artists & Hair Stylists, Local 798

Resources

Broadway World’s “BWW Exclusive: Broadway Hair Designers Sound Off About What They Do and How They Do It!”
The NY Times’ “The Big Wigs of Broadway”
TDF’s “The Art of Designing Black Hair for the Stage”

WICKED The Musical’s “WICKED Hair and Makeup: Wigs”

Broadway.com’s “Behind the Scenes: Sherie Rene Scott Transforms into Ursula for Broadway’s ‘The Little Mermaid’”

PBS' "ANNIE ON BROADWAY: What Does a Hair & Wig Designer Do?"