Nick Montesano: A Life in Theatre and Beyond on The Lighter Side with Jay
Listen, what I say is, it's obviously the hard stuff and everyone jokes about it and blah, blah, blah, but it's a gift.
Nick Montesano wears many hats: father, director, mentor, educator, husband, and community theater legend in New Jersey. But what truly makes him special is his warmth and compassion. Jay first met Nick as a teenager grieving the loss of his mother. Nick offered him a role in the NJ premiere of 'Tommy', and their bond has only grown over the last 25 years. In this episode, Jay and Nick dive deep into topics that span decades.
They talk about Nick's illustrious career in theater, the highs and lows of his personal life, and the wisdom he's gained along the way. One poignant moment comes when Nick discusses grief. He shares, 'Listen, what I say is, it's obviously the hard stuff and everyone jokes about it and blah, blah, blah, but it's a gift'. His perspective on loss is both moving and thought-provoking.
Nick also opens up about his journey of coming out as a gay man, reflecting on the struggles and triumphs of self-acceptance. As an educator, he shares his thoughts on how the pandemic has affected the arts and underscores the importance of storytelling during challenging times. This episode is a treasure trove of life lessons, especially for those interested in the transformative power of theater, dealing with grief, and embracing one's true self.
Nick's story is a testament to resilience and the enduring impact of community support.