By Tom Waring
Times Staff Writer
Director/producer Rich Rubin needed to find a young Italian-American actress with comedic timing for an upcoming production of the stage show Niagara Falls.
An acquaintance suggested he consider Nicole Mesiano, a 25-year-old from Somerton.
So Rubin checked out her picture and resumé and watched her performance as Cogsworth — a giant clock — in the Vogue Players’ production of Beauty and the Beast in April at the Thomas Holme School.
The two talked after the show, and Rubin invited her to audition for the role of Jackie Poletti Ventura in Niagara Falls. He called back the top prospects for a follow-up audition and paired them with other actors to see who had the best stage chemistry.
In the end, Mesiano won the role.
"I was surprised and very pleased that he selected me," she said.
Niagara Falls opens on Wednesday, July 16, at the Shubin Theatre in Queen Village. It’ll be there for a three-week run.
The show is centered on an Italian-American couple’s reaction to their gay son and his lover coming home for his sister’s wedding.
Mesiano’s character marries Vinnie Ventura (played by Robert Cutler). Her parents, Johnny and Connie, are played by Andrew Vitagliano and Hilary Kayle Crist. Darnelle Radford plays Fred, a gay hotel clerk.
The show is divided into what can be considered two short plays.
The first act features Johnny and Connie in their kitchen. They worry about their son and his boyfriend’s presence at the wedding and whether they will dance together.
The second act focuses on Jackie, Vinnie and Fred in the lobby of the Shangri-La Motor Inn, their honeymoon hotel. The newlyweds are already questioning their commitment to each other.
Jackie’s brother and lover are not seen or heard in the show.
Mesiano is happy with how the production is progressing through rehearsals and thinks audiences will be delighted.
"I love it. I think it’s fantastic," she said. "The show has some great character moments and character traits. It has some really hilarious moments and tender moments."
Mesiano said the show does not project any Italian stereotypes. The Polettis don’t yell, argue and throw things.
"They really love each other," she said.
Rubin said he selected Mesiano because of her ability to perform comedy and stay true to her character. He describes the cast as hardworking, talented and prepared, adding that the actors take direction well.
"Nicole is the epitome of that," he said.
Rubin credits the actors with being able to make the transition to scenes that make the audience both cry and cheer. He labels Mesiano as a "star."
"Nicole is destined for things greater than this show," he said.
Mesiano started her entertainment career as a dancer at age 2. She continued the hobby through her teenage years.
At 13, she began acting in shows produced and directed by Tom Korytowski at the Lawncrest Recreation Center. She also took part in shows at Archbishop Ryan High School and Temple University.
After Korytowski died in 2004, Mesiano replaced him. She oversees a show in the spring for children and one in the fall for adults.
As a director, she delegates some duties, but follows Korytowski’s lead when it comes to being detail-oriented. She is intimately involved in the costumes, set, props, choreography and all other aspects of the show.
Presenting such classics as Annie and The Wizard of Oz is good, Mesiano believes, but she likes to offer a mix. One recent show was the modern satirical comedy musical Urinetown. She also produced a concert.
Mesiano’s other experience includes a role in a production of Big River in Norristown and three and a half years in Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. She has played various roles at several venues, including the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
"I’ve played every bridesmaid," she said, adding that she also has played Tina’s cousin, a nun.
Mesiano works a 9-to-5 job for a private Plymouth Meeting firm that researches issues such as housing, jobs, mental health and counseling for members of the armed services.
Her schedule can be hectic.
"It’s very tough to juggle everything, but I like to be busy," she said.
Mesiano has some lofty goals. She’d love to be a professional actress. She’d also like to own a theater company.
"My fingers are crossed," she said. ••
"Niagara Falls" opens on July 16 at the Shubin Theatre, 407 Bainbridge St. The show runs through Aug. 2. Performances are 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Tickets cost $15 on Wednesdays and $25 on the other nights.
For tickets or other information, call 215-627-1088 or visit www.quinceproductions.com
Reporter Tom Waring can be reached at 215-354-3034 or twaring@phillynews.com