The Easterseals Northeast Indiana Transitions program is helping young adults with disabilities explore their independence and discover new interests. For Nick, a 20-year-old with a passion for acting, this has meant continuing to grow while pursuing his love of theater in the local community.
Nick’s Theater Journey Continues After High School
Nick has loved theater since his days performing in musicals at Woodlan High School. Now, he’s taking on new challenges in community theater. In a production of Shrek the Musical at the Huber Opera House in Hicksville, Ohio, Nick is cast in three roles: one of the Three Pigs, a guard for Lord Farquaad, and a knight.
He enjoys every part of the process—from wearing costumes to acting alongside other cast members. “I get to perform on stage. I like being in the costume. I get to try to emote with the cast,” he said. “I’ve studied acting by watching films, like Tom Hanks films and (Leonardo) DiCaprio films.”
A Natural Performer With a Passion for Film
Nick has an impressive knowledge of movies and music. “He’s a movie buff. He’s a music buff. He could tell you a movie—who directed it, who produced it, who starred in it—for hundreds and hundreds of movies,” said Toni Printzos, a behavior consultant with Easterseals Northeast Indiana Fort Wayne.
It was Printzos and Nick’s mother who encouraged him to try out for “Grease” during high school, where he landed the role of Eugene. That first role led to others, including performances in The Addams Family and Seussical the Musical.
Easterseals Northeast Indiana Transitions Program Provides Balance
While he continues to perform, Nick is also a dedicated member of the Easterseals Northeast Indiana Transitions program. This program is designed to support young adults with disabilities as they prepare for independent living, employment, and deeper community involvement.
Nick attends the program two days a week while working morning shifts at Bob Evans in Fort Wayne on weekends. The Transitions program helps him stay active and build skills that support his long-term goals.
Discovering Community Theater Opportunities
Nick’s interest in community theater grew after a trip to the Huber Opera House to see Beauty and the Beast. He attended the show with Printzos and Pat Bailey, another behavior consultant with Easterseals Northeast Indiana Fort Wayne. After meeting a cast member, Nick was encouraged to audition for Shrek the Musical and was thrilled to be selected for three parts.
At rehearsals, Nick quickly learned how to manage fast costume changes and character switches—an impressive feat in a small cast of about 25 actors, many of whom play multiple roles.
“Nick is a really nice guy,” said Director Chris Banks. “It’s the first time he’s been in one of our productions. He’s done very well.”
Looking Ahead
Nick hopes to someday perform with the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre. Whether it’s a school play or a professional production, he brings energy and enthusiasm to every role.
As a member of the Easterseals Northeast Indiana Transitions program, Nick is building life skills, working part-time, and pursuing his creative passion. His story is a shining example of how young adults can thrive when given the right support and opportunities.