Meet Costume Technician (stitcher, costume construction) and professional dresser, Isidro Rodriguez. He is the Recording Secretary of IATSE Theatrical Wardrobe Local 896 and has been a PROUD member of his Local since 1998.
Rodriguez is Mexican American and both first-generation American and union in his family. In addition to being a member of IATSE, he is also a union member of the Houston Federation of Teachers (HFT) and has been since 1990. “Coming from a collectivist culture, being a union member is like the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child” and “Strength comes in union,” says Rodriguez. “Our social values revolve around what is best for the community and society.”
Isidro shares that his proudest career moments are reconnecting with those he’s worked with before, performers he’s dressed and witnessing his dreams come true on the BROADWAY stage. “Being able to work in the entertainment industry is my passion, my DNA,” he added. “It provides opportunities to meet people in all areas of the industry not only the performers I dress, and costume/wig department but also the stagehands, musicians, directors, writers and producers. It gives me the opportunity to network and invite those I meet to come to my school and speak to my students whenever possible.”
Currently teaching Pre-K in Houston Independent School District and having served on the Curriculum Committee and Elementary School Interest Chair for Texas Educational Theatre Association, where he taught Drama, Rodriguez says he hopes that future generations are exposed to more Fine Arts in school, not only in middle and high school but also elementary – Early Childhood to 5th grade. “As an educator, I speak up on the value and importance integrating fine arts in all academic subjects; for states and district to see the value that Fine Arts contribute to providing a well-rounded education to ALL students.”
