Testimonials

"While working with Nick Lenz, I discovered my love for directing.  He was an excellent role model, and mentor. Not only did Nick demonstrate useful tactics for working with others, he also provided me with hands-on experience. I was encouraged to explore my creativity and, with his guidance, unlocked my leadership potential."

~ Katelynn Handa

Westinghouse Arts Academy - Musical Theatre Graduate

Slippery Rock University - B.F.A. Acting Major/Dance Performance Minor

"Watching Nick work with students is magical! 

His kindness and passion for the craft shines through in every student he works with. Nick makes the rehearsal room a fully creative and supportive environment. He is a top notch collaborator, making everyone on his team feel heard and secure in their work. Any theatrical institution is lucky to have Nick on their staff."

~ Joshua Roberson

Associate Choreographer - The Old Man and the Old Moon - Stagedoor Manor 

"It is one of my greatest joys in life to learn and create alongside Nick Lenz. 

I first met Nick when he was my summer camp instructor, and over the years, our friendship and creative partnership has blossomed into something truly special. Working with Nick is a constant source of inspiration. His artistic vision and direction are nothing short of excellent, and together, we have brought to life some truly beautiful pieces of art. His passion, attention to detail, and commitment to storytelling elevate every project we collaborate on.

What truly sets Nick apart is his profound understanding of artistry, paired with a genuine passion and unwavering dedication to his craft. His depth of knowledge and experience is evident in every conversation and creative endeavor, seamlessly guiding the collaborative process. Nick's ability to articulate ideas with clarity and insight not only elevates the work but also inspires those around him, making him an invaluable creative partner and mentor.

Whether we are brainstorming new ideas, rehearsing, or celebrating the final product, Nick’s presence makes the creative process both meaningful and joyful. I am endlessly grateful for his talent, his friendship, and the countless moments of laughter and inspiration we’ve shared. 

Nick Lenz is not only an extraordinary artist but also an extraordinary human being, and I am so fortunate to call him my artistic partner and dear friend.

~ Savannah Rae Bruno

Lead Educator - Stage Right! School For the Performing Arts 

Musical Theatre Dance Coordinator - Westinghouse Arts Academy

Regional Choreographer 

Lifelong Fiend and Artistic Colleague

"...Nick is not only a phenomenal mentor; he is an extraordinary guide who has shaped my journey in countless ways. Nick creates a learning environment filled with exuberant joy and boundless opportunities for students to flourish and explore their true selves through art. His support extended far beyond the classroom, as he became a role model and a steadfast helping hand throughout my career and adult life. Nick’s versatility is remarkable, having taught me Ballet, Jazz, voice, and acting. He is not only a teacher, leader, and mentor but also a working actor whose real-world experiences enrich the classroom with invaluable insights. Above all, Nick prioritizes the well-being of his students, recognizing that they are human beings first. I will always be grateful to Nick for his pivotal role in helping me achieve my dream of attending a prestigious school. More importantly, I admire him as someone I aspire to be, embodying greatness in every aspect of life."

~ Cynsere Stevens

Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Graduate

Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music - B.F.A. Musical Theatre

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Nick for many years and have observed his growth as a leader and change-maker in the theatrical community.  His commitment to quality productions and performances extends beyond the stage and helps to elevate his students and colleagues to the highest level of professionalism.

Nick is a dynamic and creative director, performer, and teacher.  He is able to connect with performers of all ages, always bringing out the true artist on stage or in the classroom.  

Nick served as the Acting Coach for the Musical Theatre Intensive at Rocsato Conservatory of Music. The students were captivated by his ability to bring their songs to life during the Acting Through Song classes.  After the final showcase performance, the students felt that they were transformed by their intense and innovative work with Nick and continue to ask if he will return as the Acting Coach. ”

~ Dr. Aimé Sposato, D.M.A.

Owner and Instructor of Voice - Rocsato Conservatory of Music

"I had the privilege of being a student of Nick’s for 5+ years, and every moment was pure joy. With him, I studied a wide variety of performance classes including ballet, tap, jazz, acting, and voice. Nick’s passion, personality, and professionalism make him a dynamic and inspiring teacher. He is the definition of a multi-hyphenate; not only is Nick a highly skilled educator, performer, and musician, he is also an incredible leader and an absolute joy in every setting. To this day, I credit Nick as playing a key role in helping me prepare and get into my dream school for musical theatre!"

~ Grace Marie Rusnica

Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Graduate

Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music - B.F.A. Musical Theatre 

Monte Cristo (Off-Broadway)

The MUNY

Paper Mill Playhouse

"Nick has been an incredible mentor, and teacher throughout my whole Musical Theatre career. Nick has always made me feel so seen as a performer, and has given me the confidence to be truthful in my work, and to always be my true authentic self in every room I walk into. Nick creates a safe, playful, environment where every artist can grow to be the best version of themselves."

~ David Carver

Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Graduate

University of the Arts - B.F.A Musical Theatre 

Seton Hill University - B.F.A. Musical Theatre 

"I've had the privilege of knowing and working with Nick for many years, both professionally and as a friend. I've witnessed firsthand the magic he brings to the stage. His ability to breathe creative life into each show is unparalleled. His vision is both innovative and deeply rooted in the essence of the story. Under his direction, every production becomes a journey, with each scene, song, and interaction meticulously crafted to resonate with the audience. His approach to musical theatre is both traditional and bold, pushing boundaries while honoring the material's integrity.

Nick's collaborative spirit sets him apart. He fosters an atmosphere where every team member feels valued and empowered, encouraging ideas to flourish. As a photographer, I've seen him work seamlessly with actors, designers, and musicians, resulting in richer, more dynamic productions. His precision is evident in every frame I capture. Nick's attention to detail ensures that every performance, lighting cue, and set design choice enhances the storytelling.

Beyond the stage, Nick profoundly impacts the local theatre community. He’s a director, mentor, educator, performer, and advocate for the arts, inspiring students, young artists, and professionals alike. His productions serve as cultural touchstones, bringing diverse audiences together.

On a personal level, our friendship has been one of mutual respect, laughter, and creative growth. Nick challenges me to see the world through a different lens (no pun intended), much like he approaches theatre. Working with Nick has been a career highlight. His dedication, connection with people, and innovative spirit make him an exceptional theatre professional and one of my dearest friends. I look forward to many more years of being inspired by his work."

~ Doug Estok

Owner and Operator - Pittsburgh Performance Photography

Former Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Parent

Former Westinghouse Arts Academy Parent

Lifelong Artistic Colleague

"I have had the honor of working with Nick Lenz on and off for around five years. Over the past two years, I was fortunate to be directed by him in two Westinghouse Arts Academy summer productions: Seussical and Godspell. Without hesitation, Nick is a phenomenal theater educator unlike any other. 

Nick's passion for theater radiates through his directing style—organic, inventive, kind, caring, and accepting. His dedication and encouragement set a gold standard for what the theater industry should embody. With his professional acting experience, Nick offers invaluable wisdom that inspires and prepares students for professional work in the industry.

The productions I’ve been part of under Nick’s leadership were the best theater experiences of my life. The environment he creates is one of love, positivity, and kindness; a direct reflection of who he is as a leader and mentor. He is a rare teacher who connects with his students on a profound level, something you typically don’t encounter before the collegiate stage.Nick's unwavering support is one of the reasons I am pursuing acting in college today. He is not just an extraordinary teacher but also a cherished mentor and friend. I cannot recommend Nick Lenz enough as a theater educator and mentor for anyone looking to grow in the performing arts."

~ Phelan Newman

Westinghouse Arts Academy Summer Musical Theatre Alumnae

Shenandoah Conservatory - B.F.A. Acting 

“I have had the privilege of working closely with Nick for many years. I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary dedication and skill he brings to both the classroom and the stage. As an educator in theater, Nick excels in not only teaching the technical aspects of performance but also in inspiring a deep passion for the craft in students. His ability to connect with students of all levels, providing constructive feedback while fostering an environment of creativity and confidence, is truly remarkable.

In addition to his teaching, Nick is a brilliant director. His vision for theater productions is remarkable, consistently bringing out the best in every performer. He possesses a rare combination of artistry, leadership, and organizational skills which has resulted in consistently high-quality productions that are both innovative and unforgetable.

Whether in the classroom or as the director of a show, Nick creates an atmosphere that encourages growth, collaboration, and excellence. His passion for theater is contagious, and he is a true asset to any team or production. I cannot recommend him highly enough.”

~ Peter Jones

Aerial Director / Trainer - Royal Caribbean International

University of the Arts - B.F.A. Dance

Lifelong Friend and Artistic Colleague

"Nick single-handedly revived my love for theatre! I was lucky enough to work under his mentorship during my senior year of high school, and I can confidently say that I learned the most about not only technique, but also about professionalism and preparedness from him. Nick is the most personable director and teacher I have ever had the privilege of working with and learning from. Whether I was working on my audition repertoire or seeking a letter of recommendation, Nick has never hesitated to be my most adamant supporter. His care for his students’ success and wellbeing is immensely apparent in his work, and I could not have asked for a better mentor."

~ David Keller

Westinghouse Arts Academy - Musical Theatre Graduate

Baldwin Wallace University- B.F.A. Acting 

"Working with Nick changed my voice indefinitely. His pedagogical knowledge of the voice helped me to gain a better understanding and control of my voice. If I ever have a question, I go to him."

~ Benjamin Kent Pimental 

Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Graduate

Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music - B.F.A. Musical Theatre 

Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera

AEA Actor

"Nick was very helpful with audition coaching! He knows the trade because he went through it himself and knows the ins and outs that most don’t.…. In just a few lessons I saw a huge improvement in my vocal technique and  was able to add vocal variety to the songs themselves. After lessons with Nick I left with more knowledge and confidence about the art of auditioning and achieving expressive, powerful singing"

~ Eric Phelps

Stage Right! School for the Performing Arts Graduate

New York University, Tisch School of the Arts - B.F.A. Acting 

AEA/SAG-AFTRA Professional Actor