>(2)  The idea of shopping for makeup at the cosmetic counter of department stores really skeeves me.  I always assmed that most ballet companies would have a makeup artist, but not so.  How do you cope?

Just do it anyway.  I walked right into the Osco and bought all the makeup basics in one shot.  Of course you're a performer; that's the most common reason men buy makeup.

>(2)  I have a day job in the office of a bank.  My manager is talking about mandatory overtime starting in December.  But I'm rehearsing for the Nutcracker now, and next month I'll be performing it (Cavalier, mainly), and I just can't do the OT.  I really need this job, though.  This has got to be a common dilemma for dancers.  How can I reconcile my need for $ with my art?

Can you talk to your boss?  What were the expectations when you took the job?  What type of unemployment would you get if you refuse the OT and are fired?  What would be your job prospects come January if you were fired?

To the extent that you compromise, how can you maximize your progress as a dancer?  Sometimes, attending rehearsals is more important than making all the performances.

We all gotta make a living somehow.

-- Bob