Shade of Face FX

Two weeks ago, I was settling into my room at the beautiful Biddle Hotel on the Indiana University campus in Bloomington, filled with excitement as we prepared to bring Dear Evan Hansen: High School Version to the main stage at the International Thespian Festival.

It still doesn't quite feel real.

From becoming the first—and only—school in the nation to pilot this production to sharing it on a national stage with thousands of theatre students from across the country, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

As theatre artists, opportunities to meet the creators (and gift them casts of their own) of the stories we bring to life are incredibly rare. Having Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Steven Levenson attend our final performance—and then join us on stage afterward—was a moment I'll never forget.

Benj, Justin, and Steven, thank you for creating a story that has changed so many lives, for trusting young performers with it, and for the kindness you showed our students. Meeting you, and hearing your compliments about my work, is something I will treasure forever.

Serving as the makeup artist for this production gave me the incredible privilege of recreating one of the most iconic casts in modern musical theatre. Every late night, every challenge, and every bit of trial and error was worth it. Watching that cast under the stage lights, getting signed and becoming part of telling this beautiful story was incredibly rewarding.

A huge thank you to Evan Hyrniewicki for your positivity, patience, and collaboration throughout this process. I truly couldn't have done it without you. And thank you to Henry Riordan for signing the many extra casts I created along the way.

Finally, thank you to our incredible cast, crew, pit, production team, parents, families, friends, and the entire Wauwatosa West Trojan Players community. This experience was only possible because of all of you.

Some experiences change you as an artist. Others change you as a person. This one did both. For forever!

Thank you, Evan Hansen, for everything.💙

For the past ten years, I’ve had the honor of serving as Production Makeup Designer and Artist for the award-winning Tosa West Trojan Players. I’ve watched students walk into auditions unsure and step into opening night transformed — confident, committed, and fully immersed in the stories they’re telling. Every production brings new artistic challenges and fresh creative opportunities, but the formula remains the same: storytelling through collaboration.

This fall was particularly special.

Through a partnership with Music Theatre International, Wauwatosa West became the first and only school in the nation selected to pilot Dear Evan Hansen: High School Version. A powerful musical about connection, identity, and the longing to be seen, it has touched audiences across the country with its unforgettable score and deeply human story. We are proud to announce that our production of Dear Evan Hansen: High School Version has been selected as one of twelve productions to be featured on the main stage at The International Thespian Festival in Bloomington, IN in June, 2026.

After helping bring this production to the Tosa West stage, I wanted to capture something beyond the curtain call — a visual tribute inspired by the show’s iconic imagery. Centered around Evan and Connor, this photoshoot reflects the moment that binds their stories together and reminds us how a single connection can ripple outward in unexpected ways.

A heartfelt thank you to Evan and Henry for sharing their time. The result is so incredibly moving and visually striking — a testament to your incredible talents.

We invite you to support us at Hello, Dolly! in March 2026 and at the remount of Dear Evan Hansen: High School Version this summer at Tosa West as we continue our journey to ITF!

For now, take a step back into this story with us — and remember: you are not alone!

www.shadeoffacefx.com/you-are-not-alone

Peace • Love • Kindness
Shade of Face FX

Evan Hansen: Evan Hryniewicki
Connor Murphy: Henry Riordan
Photographer: Shun Powell
Makeup/Cast Design: Shade of Face FX

January 31, 2026 marks five years since the launch of the official Shade of Face FX website—and the day I finally chose to follow my passion, put my joy first, and step fully into my dream of being a full-time special effects makeup artist.

Five years later, I can confidently say: IT WAS THE RIGHT CHOICE!

This journey has been filled with creativity, growth, and unforgettable experiences. From collaborative projects and productions to messages of encouragement and quiet support behind the scenes, every connection along the way has played a role in shaping who I am as an artist today.

Working with such inspiring people has pushed me to expand my skillset, explore new techniques, refine my craft, and build a portfolio I’m truly proud to share with the world. Your trust, openness, and belief in my work have continually motivated me to raise the bar and grow within this incredible industry.

Whether you collaborated with me, followed my work, cheered me on, or simply checked in along the way—thank you. The last five years would not have been the same without your creativity, support, and encouragement.

I’m so excited for what’s ahead and look forward to many more opportunities to create, learn, and grow together in the years to come.

Peace • Love • Kindness
Shade of Face FX