Costume and make-up are essential elements in drama and theatre performances. They help actors transform into their characters, making the performance more realistic and engaging for the audience.

• Costume refers to the clothing and accessories worn by actors to represent their characters.


• Make-up involves the use of cosmetics, paints, and prosthetics to enhance or alter an actor’s appearance.

1. To show the identity of a character (e.g. king, doctor, student, beggar).


2. To represent the time and place of the story (e.g. ancient times, modern era, village, foreign land).


3. To reflect culture or tradition (e.g. Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa clothing).


4. To support the role of the actor and help the audience understand the play.


5. To make the stage colourful and attractive.


6. To distinguish different characters, especially when one actor plays many roles.


7. To create the right mood or atmosphere (e.g. wedding, war, market scene).


8. To add beauty, meaning, and creativity to the overall performance.

• Traditional Costumes – Worn in cultural performances (e.g., Agbada, Buba and Iro).


• Fantasy Costumes – Used in fairy tales or supernatural plays (e.g., witches, wizards).


• Modern Costumes – Everyday clothes like jeans, suits, and dresses.

1. To change the appearance of an actor (e.g. make a young person look old or a human look like a ghost or animal).


2. To create special effects (like wounds, scars, burns, blood, or fantasy looks).


3. To highlight facial expressions, especially under strong stage lighting.


4. To beautify the actor’s face or correct skin imperfections.


5. To help the actor look like the character they are playing (e.g. a sick person, a witch, an angel).


6. To make the play more realistic and believable to the audience.


7. To support the story and mood of the drama (happy, sad, scary, funny, etc.).

1. Straight Make-up – Enhances natural features (used in everyday scenes).


2. Character Make-up – Changes appearance (e.g., turning into an old man or a monster).


3. Fantasy Make-up – Used for imaginary creatures (e.g., aliens, demons).

	Costume Materials	Make-up Materials
1	- Fabric (cotton, silk)	- Foundation
2	- Thread and needle	- Lipstick
3	- Accessories (hats, shoes)	- Eyebrow pencil
4	- Jewelry (necklaces, crowns)	- Fake blood
5	- Masks	- Spirit gum (for fake beards)

1. Cleanse the Face – Wash and dry the actor’s face.


2. Apply Foundation – Use a shade that matches the character.


3. Contour and Highlight – Darken shadows (cheeks, nose) for depth.


4. Eye and Lip Make-up – Use eyeliner, mascara, and lipstick.


5. Special Effects – Add scars, wrinkles, or wounds if needed.

	Costume	Make-up
1	Worn on the body	Applied on the face/skin
2	Includes clothes, shoes, and accessories	Includes paints, powders, and prosthetics
3	Shows social status and setting	Enhances facial features