December 2016 Favorites: Backstage at the Nutcracker

 Dancewear: Capezio dance briefs

This item is a real must for most advanced female dancers.  These briefs have the same modest (low-legline) cut as Capezio leotards, and they come up high on the waist.  While not super attractive as bikini bottoms, they provide necessary coverage for many romantic tutus and dress-based costumes. I generally wear the briefs in light pink, black, or nude over tights of the same color (color depends on role and costume).  If my skirt flips up on stage, the audience will see an uninterrupted line of tights and briefs, not a wardrobe malfunction.  I find these briefs comfortable, and often end up wearing them as underwear beneath formal attire for post-show parties. (Available from discountdance.com and capezio.com)

Streetwear: Eddie Bauer Microtherm StormDown Jacket

I am always freezing when I'm backstage (partly because my company dances in a historic         theater that does not have insulated walls in the dressing rooms).  Extra layers are a must, but I like to bring as little as possible in my bag, and it's hard to find pieces that can be worn over costumes, dancewear, and streetwear.  Pullovers are hard because they mess up hair, and soft clothing can sometimes leave behind balls of fluff on tights and tulle.  This jacket is perfect because it's a full zip, smooth fabric, and super lightweight (it can fold into it's own pocket for easy packing).  I also love the sporty style, and the down quilting makes it extremely warm.  If you're headed on a skiing holiday after your last Nutcracker show, this is the jacket for you.  (Available at Eddie Bauer stores and on eddiebauer.com).

Makeup:  Too Faced Melted Matte liquid lipstick in Lady Balls

Stage makeup is not my favorite; I always prefer a more natural look.  However, I know that the bold colors and dark lines serve the purpose of highlighting my features for every member of the audience to see.  One of the biggest issues with stage makeup is bright red lipstick.  It seems to be the first thing to rub off (all over my face, usually), and costume changes can easily get messy.  I am also very prone to dry lips, and highly pigmented formulas can make lips even drier.  This liquid lipstick from Too Faced provides opaque color in one coat, and it dries to a matte finish that doesn't rub off easily.  The formula is quite lightweight, so it isn't too drying.  Just a sweep of makeup remover returns my lips to their natural color.  Even though the product is expensive, I think the quality is worth the price.  (Available at Sephora and Ulta stores)

Skincare: Lancome Bi-Facil Double Action Eye Makeup Remover

I don't often use specific makeup remover since I wear light and non-waterproof makeup on a daily basis.  For the stage, though, I wear black eyeliner and thick layers of black mascara.  This makeup remover easily takes off all pigments, including lipstick.  It does not sting my eyes, and it does not leave streaky residue.  I like to remove my stage makeup and do more subdued makeup for the opening night reception, and I like to leave bare-faced if I have no obligations after a show.  Even though it's from a pricy brand, I like this Lancome makeup remover because it's crafted from high quality ingredients that I trust.  (Available at Sephora and sephora.com)

Food:  Propel Fitness Water

I need a lot of fluids when I'm performing, especially when it's aerobic corps roles like snow and flowers.  This fitness water is like Gatorade, but it's completely clear.  This makes it a good choice for backstage since it can't stain anything if it spills.  The electrolytes in the formula keep muscles from cramping, which is very helpful for me.  Propel is available in a variety of fruit flavors (my favorites are orange and grape), so you'll be sure to find one you like.  (Available at most convenience and grocery stores)