Behind the Biz: Kelsey Contois-Husch

Kelsey has had a passion for the arts and theatre since childhood. After graduating high school, she was accepted into the prestigious University of North Carolina School of the Arts in the Design and Production: Wig and Makeup Design Program where she graduated in 2008. Kelsey's professional career began before graduation when she got hired as the Wig and Makeup Designer for operas such as The Devil and Kate for Fletcher Opera Company and Die Fledermaus for Opera Carolina. With the experience of large production shows in late of 2008, Kelsey was offered a position as a Wig Technician for Cirque du Soleil’s show KÀ at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. After 9 months, in her role as a wig technician she transferred to the show's Makeup Technician/Supervisor. Which includes supervising and ensuring over 135 various makeup designs are flawless to appear on stage 10 shows a week. Airbrushing tattoo's and makeup changes for transitions, creating makeup charts for new artists, teaching each performer how to apply their own makeup efficiently and correctly, many in which English is not their first language. With over 8 years at KÀ, she has had many opportunities to work in all specialized fields; Television, Film, Print, Special Events, and National Marketing Events, stretching from L.A. to NYC. Kelsey has assisted in two Cirque du Soleil creations, Viva! Elvis (Wig Technician) and Michael Jackson “One” (Makeup Technician). Hair Stylist and Makeup Assistant for Cirque du Soleil in Partnership with Google Chrome: Movi.Kanti.Revo. Assistant Wig and Makeup Designer for Gladius "formally known as a Valitar" 7 years as Co-Director of Hair and Makeup, Circus Couture in partnership with Children’s Specialty Center of Nevada. Even though her spare time is limited, Kelsey enjoys working with her husband to build Halloween decorations and props for their annual Husch Haus Halloween party.