Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™
Universal Studios Florida · Hollywood
Temporarily closed
Reimagined show coming Winter 2027. Original 36-year-old show closed permanently May 12; new version keeps the comedy format and Pantages Theater.
Closed May 12, 2026 – March 31, 2027.
Overview
Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show is an indoor live comedy and demonstration show in the Hollywood area featuring professional makeup and special effects artists who reveal the behind-the-scenes techniques used to create horror characters for film productions. The 25-minute show uses movie clips, actual props, and live demonstrations on audience volunteers to deconstruct practical effects, prosthetics, and screen makeup. With no height requirement and no motion, it is broadly accessible, though the horror content and graphic special effects demonstrations are notable for very young children.
ParksLog Verdict
A genuinely entertaining show that rewards the film-curious and delivers consistent laughs through its comedy-forward format. The practical effects demonstrations are fascinating — actual movie props and materials, not replicas — and the volunteer segments add unpredictability that keeps it fresh. Worth catching once per trip for adults and older children. Very young children may find the horror content unsettling despite the low thrill rating. Sit near the front for the best chance at selection.
About this experience
In this outrageous live show you'll watch how top make-up and special effects artists craft some of the creepy characters you've seen on the big screen. Featuring movie clips, props, and interactive demonstrations, this experience offers fascinatingly funny insight into the moviemaking process.
Best For
- Film and practical effects enthusiasts
- Horror and makeup fans
- Older children and adults
- Guests who enjoy filmmaking process entertainment
Tips
- Volunteer opportunities arise during the show for live makeup demonstrations — sitting near the front and being visibly enthusiastic improves selection chances.
- The horror content and graphic effects demonstrations may not be appropriate for very young children, despite the no-height-requirement and low thrill rating.
- Check the daily schedule for show times — the Hollywood theater runs multiple performances per day.
Details
History
Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show has been running at Universal Studios Florida since 1991, making it one of the park's earliest entertainment offerings. It was part of Universal's founding identity as a film-studio park that educates guests about the moviemaking process — a founding concept shared by Disney-MGM Studios and similar parks of the same era.
Fun Facts
- Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show has been running since 1991 — one of the few entertainment offerings from the park's founding era still in continuous active operation.
- The show uses actual props and makeup materials from Universal film productions rather than replicas — giving it a level of authenticity unusual in theme park live entertainment.
- The Horror Make-Up Show was part of Universal Studios Florida's original behind-the-scenes filmmaking identity at its 1990 opening, a founding concept that also drove the creation of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! at Disney-MGM Studios in the same era.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ take?
- The experience runs about 25 minutes. Budget extra time for the queue, any pre-show, and boarding — on busy days the full process can take considerably longer.
- Is Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ good for young children?
- Yes — Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ is listed as kid-friendly on ParksLog. The experience is gentle enough for most young guests, though always consider a child's individual comfort with the ride type before queuing.
- Does Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ operate in the rain?
- Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ is an indoor attraction. It runs in a climate-controlled environment, making it a good choice on hot or rainy days.
- Should I prioritize Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ at Universal Studios Florida?
- ParksLog recommends Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ if your schedule allows. It's a worthwhile experience that most guests enjoy, but not critical — a mid-day or standby visit works fine.
- Does Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ have Universal Express?
- Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ is not included in Universal Express Pass. All guests join the standard queue for this attraction.
- When did Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ open?
- Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show™ opened at Universal Studios Florida in 1991.