Diane has talent to transform career and make it in make-up

“MACABRE” was the theme on the invitation I received for a friend’s 50th birthday party last weekend.

But a black shirt under my DJ, brought marginally to life by a much-used white silk scarf and Dracula-style cape from a props agency, was doing precious little for my sinister look.

That was until Springhead make-up artist Diane Dawson took me under her wing.

The transformation was remarkable. I was suddenly a grim-faced demon with more than a hint of Bella Lugosi. No change there then, some might say.

My companion, Debra Cockburn, went from beautiful, ebullient blond to a more fitting Dracula’s bride . . . and all thanks to the magical skills of Diane.

Professionally trained, Diane has quit the comfortable world of commerce to chase her childhood dream.

She now makes up blushing brides, hosts skin clinics and offers demonstrations at ladies’ groups.

All this after years sitting behind desks looking after corporate finances for a host of businesses. She took the plunge five years ago and enrolled on a course at The Oldham College. This was a two-year exercise supported by Diane, working part-time and also entailed extra training in New York.

She is now working hard trying to break into the business. It’s proving frustrating for a talented lady who certainly knows her stuff. We first met at the launch of the Oldham Women in Business Club in November, last year, when Diane was among more than 100 people networking.

She said: “I have always enjoyed being creative — being a make-up artist was a dream I held for many years. Then I decided to take the plunge. I was tired of looking at figures and books and sitting behind a desk so decided it was time for a change.”

Diane is the first to admit that her career shift, while being hugely fulfilling, hasn’t yet been a financial success, citing difficulties of breaking into the relatively lucrative world of make up in the world of theatre and film, although she worked on video and in the theatre.

“That is where I want to be, but I haven’t yet had that break,” she added.

“I know I am good enough and I get lots of praise for my work, but praise doesn’t pay the bills.”

Her work on Debra and myself drew praise from our fellow guests at what proved to be a magical evening at the Clough Manor, Denshaw. It’s just as well we went that extra mile — everyone else had gone to great efforts.

There were some wonderfully whacky and inventive costumes for what was a murder mystery evening — played out by actors led by Oldham’s very own Jeffrey Longmore for a top guy named Jon Laughton.Happy birthday Jon . . . welcome to the Codgers’ Club.

E-mail Diane at dianedawson @talktalk.net or call 07711-721 052.