From studying ballet to the world of makeup and hair, Maria D'Agosto's life, through the prism of the Academy of La Scala Theatre's Hall of Fame, has always revolved around the stage.
Follow the highlights with her and remember it could happen to you too!
1. Maria, can you tell us about your passion for makeup and how you decided to study at the Academy?
Before I became a professional makeup artist, I was born a ballerina. The world of theatre has always been present in my life as I also have a sister who is an opera singer.
I still remember how before I went on stage I used to prepare my classmates with makeup and hairstyles, it was my destiny! After high school I studied to become an esthetician and professional makeup artist recognized by the Campania region. This was not enough, I was still missing something to feel complete, I realized that the world of show business belonged to me and I had to include it in my studies.
By chance one day, surfing the internet, I discovered the Academy's courses dedicated to the performing arts professions and thought that the program aimed at training makeup artists and theatrical hairdressers was right for me. From that moment on, I realized that I could combine my passion for theatre with my profession and make a dream come true.
2. What is the most unforgettable memory from your training period?
I still remember the day I was told the news of my acceptance: a whirlwind of emotions! I was finally going to study at an extremely prestigious school like La Scala! Indelible in my memory is the emotion of the first time I walked into the make-up room with all the mirrors, lights, wigs. I could smell the aroma of backstage life wafting through the air. And it was living backstage at La Scala that gave me access to a wonderful learning experience with the La Scala make-up artists, where I discovered a new world. I was fascinated watching my teachers and colleagues work on singers and dancers, they taught me so many secrets of the craft. It was an unforgettable experience that I will never forget.
3. Do you feel that the hair and make-up artist course adequately prepared you for working in the entertainment industry?
After I graduated, I felt ready to face any trial without fear, and so I did. The academy trained and prepared me for any type of event, whether it be film, fashion, theatre or photo shoots and sets. The most important thing for me was that I felt ready to face different work situations where you have to adapt very quickly. I owe it all to my teachers.
4. What were and are your sources of inspiration today?
In order to be inspired, you have to look around and not be alone, to have a stimulus and inspiration from outside. My sources of inspiration, if I'm working on a project, I get them from the shape and color of the costume and I can create a look that fits them. But in general my inspirations are always different and I really like that because every job is different and allows my mind to travel and absorb everything new, which I then incorporate into my makeup.
5. And after the Academy? Do you now cooperate with the State Opera-Ruse? Do you go on tours?
After the Academy I returned to my hometown of Salerno. The year 2018 changed my life completely, and this summer I was called by the Immling Festspiele in Bavaria as head make-up artist and hairdresser for three operas. I did the make-up and hair for the soloists and was in direct contact with the director and costume designer for each of the productions. It was an experience that made me grow a lot as an artist and professional.
I have been working at the State Opera-Ruse for five years and I am currently the head of my department. It was a challenge to leave Italy, I didn't want to miss this job that I knew would give me great career opportunities. With the theatre, we also participate in many national and international tours during the opera and ballet season, going to Austria, Germany, Romania, Kuwait... the last one was in the Baltic capitals - Vilus and Riga.
From time to time I also take part in some festivals, like the Bregenzer Festspiele in Austria, which is really very interesting because the stage is on a lake and it's called a "floating stage". Incredibly picturesque! Here I had the opportunity to work in a completely different environment. I wish everyone could travel for work because one really grows both personally and professionally by returning home after being immersed in a great cultural environment.
6. Would you like to tell us one wish or advice for all future students who want to study hairdressing and make-up?
The advice I can give to anyone who wants to pursue this magical profession is that it's important to find your own niche, but above all know how to do everything. The other, no less important thing is to always keep up to date, meet new people and always approach new adventures positively.
La Scala Opera Theatre interview with Maria D'Agosto
Translation and editing: State Opera-Ruse
Source : www.accademialascala.it
