A Girl "Phantom of the Opera"?

Question

Apologies if this has been asked before. I'm an amateur actress preparing for my first male role. Specifically, the title role from "Phantom of the Opera". Are there any female actors out there with tips on dressing up as this 'villianous' man? I am not a cross-dresser; i merely want to be believable.

Thanks for your help!

The costume is actually pretty much taken care of. I want to be the "Red Death" from the Masquerade scene. However, since I've never taken a male role before, I'm not familiar with how to conceal from the audience that I am, in fact, of the female persuasion. I'm not talking about anything too drastic, here. I'm simply wondering if any of my fellow actresses have faced this sort of problem successfully, and if so - how.

Answer 1

First off...the Phantom of the Opera is amazing! I was cast as a male in my last 2 performances. The first thing you will need to do is to wrap your chest to hide any evidence of breasts. The best thing to use, i found, is an Ace bandage. You have to make sure you are wrapped TIGHTLY. I will warn you, it will hurt, but it makes the role much more believable. Also, you could have your make-up department add a little facial hair, and instead of doing straight make-up with female base and shadowing, you should use the male make up (darker base, different shadowing, etc.) You will also need to do something to either hide your hair, or alter it in some way so that it is not feminine ( wig, different style, etc.) You will need to watch charismatic men you know, to see how they move and act. Deepen your voice as much as possible, without sounding fake. Your director will have more tips for you, depending on which direction they want you to go with this role. I hope I was able to help you. Good luck!!

Answer 2

Doesn't the costuming department do that for you?

If not... A black cape, white mask that covers half of your face (secure with double-sided sticky tape...), black slacks, white ruffle shirt, black or silver vest, and wigs will be on the "must have" list.

There are different things needed for different scenes,,, like when he comes out in the red costume and full mask at the masquerade...

Do you have a low enough voice and large enough build to be believable? Are you willing to alter your hair for the role? (Might be dramatic...)

Answer 3

I suppose you should watch the way men move and speak. It's a lot harder then it sounds though seeing as men have a different center of gravity then women.

Answer 4

first of all thats my fav musical and congrats for getting the part as for the voice, you should probabley go to the director or somebody else to see if they can help you make your voice deeper.

Answer 5

sorry ne help this time