One of the often overlooked aspects of backstage preparation in amateur productions is the makeup application. After many years of community theatre, I am now completely unwilling to have anyone else touch my face, as a result of the many very bad makeup jobs I received in the hands of well-meaning volunteers that really didn't know what they were doing, or lacked the proper tools to do the job properly.
Whether you are untrusting of other's abilities or just very protective of your personal space, many people prefer to apply their own makeup. I think that it is important for any actor to learn to apply their own makeup, especially since many smaller theatres and touring productions will actually require that you do it.
It is also in a director's best interests to ensure that his/her performers are aware how to apply their own makeup, as this cuts down on "waiting around" backstage, encourages performers to be self-reliant, and reduces the amount of extra helpers needed backstage.
Whether pro or amateur or backstage volunteer, there are a number of resources here to help you learn how to apply stage makeup properly.
