Ms Katie Oropallo is a Lecturer in Wig and Make-up in the School of Theatre and Entertainment Arts at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. 

She trained in Production Arts at West Thames College, London, graduating with distinction, and has since built a career that spans more than a decade across theatre, film, and television. Her teaching focuses on wigs, hair styling, make-up artistry, and special effects, combining technical precision with creative exploration. At HKAPA, she designs and delivers courses that reflect current industry practice, while mentoring students as they develop their portfolios and prepare for professional careers.

Ms Oropallo’s professional background includes extensive work in London’s West End, UK tours, and international productions. She has led wigs and make-up departments for major shows such as BIG: The Musical at the Dominion Theatre, Motown the Musical on tour, and The Book of Mormon at the Prince of Wales Theatre. Her film and television credits include Netflix’s Bridgerton, Matilda, and The Lark, as well as Apple TV’s Silo. She has also contributed to productions at The Old Vic, Chichester Festival Theatre, and The Royal Opera House.

Ms Oropallo is known for her ability to translate artistic vision into reality, while fostering a collaborative environment for both students and professionals.

Selected credits include:

• Bridgerton (Netflix, 2021) – Crowd Hair and Make-up

• Big The Musical (Dominion Theatre, 2019) – Head of Department

• The Book of Mormon (Prince of Wales Theatre, 2015–2017) – Deputy Head of Wigs