Nicole Cassesso
Nicole developed a love for theater at an early age and began performing on stage at three-years-old. Since then, she has gone on to perform all over Southern California, most notably taking home the 2002 Macy Awards for Best Actress and Best Comedienne in a musical for her portrayal of Adelaide in “Guys and Dolls.” Other favorite roles include Ursula in “Bye Bye Birdie”, Chiffon in “Little Shop of Horrors”, Sally Brown in “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown”, Mona Kent in “Dames At Sea”, Judy Turner in “A Chorus Line”, Robin in “Smile”, TiMoune in “Once On This Island”, and Patty Simcox in “Grease.” She can also be seen as the lead in the award-winning Scenarios USA short, “Lipstick” directed by Academy Award winner, Michael Apted (Nell, Gorillas in the Midst, The Coal Miners Daughter).
Nicole continues to study voice, acting, and dance and hone her skills specifically at South Coast Repertory and with renowned commercial and theatrical coach Stuart K. Robinson. She also currently studies voice with Jill Goodsell at the Grande-Goodsell Institute for the Arts and Humanities.
When not on stage, Nicole has found a love for working behind the scenes as Production Director for One More Productions. It is a dream come true to be creating and producing quality theater and Nicole is dedicated to bringing her passion and love for the arts to the community, especially children. Knowing the importance of theatre for children, not only as an outlet, but also as an educational tool she has incorporated a children's division into One More Productions. Nicole had the great opportunity to write an original script and co-Direct "Peter Pan" with Damien Lorton for the Multi-Cultural Outreach Program during the summer of 2003. Again in March of 2004, One More Productions mounted a cutting of "Seussical," which was edited and directed by the team in celebration of 100 Years of Dr. Seuss.
Outside of theater, Nicole is working toward her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications with an emphasis in Entertainment Studies from California State University Fullerton. She also devotes her time to volunteer work, knowing the importance of giving back to the community. Nicole is a past member of the Assistance League of Newport-Mesa working with them for over four years as well as working with such groups as Habitat for Humanity, the Special Olympics, Orangewood Children's Foundation, and Race for the Cure, which she continues to participate in every year.
Although a native of Newport Beach, Nicole has adopted Garden Grove as a second home and is thrilled and honored to be at the Gem Theater and is grateful for all the love and support of One More Productions. She looks forward to seeing you at the theater!