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Behind the hair: How Broadway’s ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ keeps wigs stage-ready

Behind the hair: How Broadway’s ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ keeps wigs stage-ready "Hell’s Kitchen" wig and makeup supervisor reveals the backstage artistry and care that keep the show’s hairstyles stage-ready every night.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QC Life) - QC Life host Jana Angel caught up with Nathaniel Jones, the hair, wig, and makeup supervisor bringing the backstage magic to life in the hit musical “Hell’s Kitchen”.

At its heart, “Hell’s Kitchen” is an electrifying coming-of-age story centered on growing up, finding your voice, and navigating the deep, complex bond between parents and their children. Bringing that emotional story to the stage requires high-energy choreography, powerful vocals, and non-stop movement - meaning the hair and wigs have to withstand dynamic dance numbers.

To keep every performer looking flawless, precision timing is everything. The entire crew must stay completely in sync both in front of and behind the curtain. Each character wig demands extensive maintenance and intricate design to hold up under the stage lights and intense touring schedule. In every tour stop, the production partners with skilled local stylists to shampoo and reset dozens of wigs ensuring every single strand is ready for curtain call.

You can watch “Hell’s Kitchen” at Belk Theater.

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