Although some people think costumes are just for Halloween, one ISU faculty member designs costumes at Iowa State year round.

Linda Pisano, assistant professor of music, is the current costume designer for the ISU Theatre Department.

Although Pisano has only been at Iowa State for two semesters, her colleagues said she is already considered one of the most versatile resources in the theatre department.

Patrick Gouran, associate professor of music, said Pisano is incredibly bright and versatile.

“She has a way of making a difficult job look elementary,” he said.

Gouran said Pisano always maintains her positive attitude even when the job gets tough.

“She is currently working with me on Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night,'” he said. “It would be very normal for me to ask her for a costume from the 16th century and for her to know the exact trends and fashions of that time period.”

Jane Cox, director of ISU Theatre, said Pisano’s skills go beyond historical facts.

“She is so imaginative and audience-oriented,” she said. “She makes my job exponentially easier.”

Cox said Pisano handles her multi-faceted job well.

“Her job is much different than a normal clothing designer,” she said. “She has to be a trendy clothing designer that can encapsulate the trends of the past 2,000 years.”

While activities such as preparing for the World Design Expo 2003 and other dance productions keep her busy, Pisano said her involvement doesn’t end there.

“I also instruct five college courses in my spare time,” she said.

“I try very hard to promote interaction between the students.”

Pisano said she is looking forward to the upcoming ISU Theatre productions.

“‘Noises Off’ is absolutely hilarious,” she said. “And ‘The Twelfth Night’ is a beautiful Shakespearean play.”