Montini Catholic senior Nathan Camba has been named Bronco Artist of the Month for November.  Nathan was nominated for the honor by Drama Director Jackie Martin and Music Director, Donnie Glowinski, for his spectacular performance, as the lead role, in Montini's Fall Musical, "Newsies," (November 18-20).

"Nathan has been a tremendous addition to the Music and Theater Departments.  His growth since freshman year choir has been remarkable," said Mr. Glowinski upon his nomination. "His performance as Jack Kelly in "Newsies" was spectacular and it was truly awesome to watch him perform on stage."

Nathan was both surprised and humbled to have been chosen for this honor.  "I'm excited and a little shocked, but it's very nice!"  Throughout his young theatrical career, Nathan has taken on a number of roles including that of a squire, a lion, Prince Eric, and Captain Hook!  He got involved in theater during 5th grade at Pleasantdale with a small role in their production of "Into the Woods Jr."  "I had a great time with it, and the next year I got to play young Simba in "The Lion King Junior" which I think sealed the deal on my love for acting!  I would definitely say that my mom and dad really inspired me to get involved with theater, they are always big supporters of encouraging me to do what I want to do and I think that attitude helped me a lot. My directors in middle school also really inspired me to have fun with my acting."

He considers himself somewhat of a newcomer to Montini's Theater Department.  Due to the covid lockdowns, it was quite difficult for students to participate in productions throughout 2020 and 2021.  His first time on the Bronco stage came last spring (2022), playing several roles in "Video Gameapalooza."   Nathan was delighted to earn the role of Jack Kelly in "Newsies," the charismatic leader of the Manhattan newsies and a daunting role to play.  Nothing deterred him from giving the role all he had.  "The best part about playing Jack was definitely having a lot to do, which was also the worst part," he says candidly.  "I also enjoy that acting gives you the chance to be another person. You just get to be someone else for two hours, and nothing else really compares to that!"  

He admits that learning all of the choreography and singing his role demanded will never be among his favorite memories, but, "seeing everything miraculously come together" during Tech Week - definitely ranks among the best. "Working with (Montini's new Theater Director) Ms. Martin and Mr. Glowinski has been a lot of fun. Both of them were definitely patient with us during rehearsals which I appreciate. I especially appreciate Mr. Glow for bearing with us during music rehearsals!"

As a senior, Nathan is currently in the midst of the college admissions process with a dream of majoring in political science. He is currently a member of Montini Catholic's National Honor Society as well as their Tri-M Music Honor Society.  He sings with the Chamber Choir and A Cafellas and is a member of the Robotics Club and the Bronco Breakdown newsletter team!"While I really love acting, I don’t have any plans on pursuing it in college. Still, if I have the opportunity I would definitely try acting in local community theaters."

As far as advice for reluctant potential actors and actresses, Nathan has this to offer, "If you are reluctant to start acting, then start acting like you aren’t reluctant. The rest should come easy after that!"

"I am so glad that we are able to honor him his senior year with this," adds Mr. Glowinski. "Thank you for all your work and dedication Nathan, it has not gone unnoticed!"