Angelina Herin started her career early: As a young girl, she’d sit in front of the TV with a drawing pad and colored pencils, redrawing the costumes worn by her favorite TV and movie characters to make them “better.” To this day, the Department of Theater’s resident costume designer still has the drawings—organized by show, of course—with her notes and suggestions attached to them.
She’s taken that love for creating characters’ looks with her throughout her life; when she’s not designing the elaborate costumes for the theater department’s many shows, she freelances as a makeup artist, wigmaster and costume designer for theaters around the country. She’s even seen her work on TV—when she was a makeup artist for ESPN College Gameday.
Outside the design studio, the self-proclaimed “foodie” can be found hitting up festivals all over Cleveland, perhaps with her two Pekingese pups, Wasabi and Ginger, in tow. But what else should you know about the Seattle native? Read the Q&A.
1. What’s on your iPod?
I have to admit this question stumps me…because I do not own an iPod. I know, it’s a rarity, but I’ve always run behind the times in technology. Maybe Santa—or one of my relatives—will read this and remedy the problem! I do, however, have a collection of CDs ranging from the music of my youth (Nirvana, Save Ferris, Sublime, and Stone Temple Pilots) to a variety of genres like classical, pop and country.
2. What’s your favorite spot in Cleveland and why?
I’ve only lived in Cleveland for two years—well, Lakewood and Westlake—and most of my explorations revolve around food and festivals. The West Side Market is one of my favorite places—the dill pickle popcorn is great, not to mention all the fresh produce and bread. I highly recommend Lakewood because of all the small shops and it’s a great place to walk your dogs (mine love it!) while looking at all the architecture.
3. If you could only take three books with you to a deserted island, what would you take?
While I suppose I could get a book on escaping the island, I wouldn’t be in any hurry to leave; I really like beaches and salt water. So, my first pick would be The 19th Wife by David Ebershoff since I’m currently reading it and would like to finish. After that, I would probably be in the mood for some light reading and would pick of Janet Evanovich’s books about bounty hunter Stephanie Plum—they make me laugh! Finally, I’d definitely want The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Travel by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht since I’m sure there’s a section on deserted island survival.
4. What one word would you use to describe yourself, and what one word would your friends use to describe you?
I’d describe myself as “cheerful” and “productive.” I honestly can’t recall any specific phrases my friends have used to describe me. I guess I’ll have to ask one day. But students have called me “supportive,” “encouraging” and “fun.”
5. What’s your favorite thing about Case Western Reserve University?
Since I spend all day in Eldred Hall, I don’t get out much on the campus. There is one guy I see every day; he’s got a great smile and sometimes a flower behind his ear or a snazzy knit cap! Every day I pass the “Doc Oc” statue/bench on my way to the theatre and think it’s a wonderful tribute. You can’t help but smile when you walk by!