Purcell Marian Launches New Acting Academy for 6th-8th Graders

Purcell Marian High School is launching a new acting academy for 6th-8th grade students led by theatre veteran and Purcell Marian alumnus Nate Pucke. The Purcell Marian Acting Academy is designed for 6th-8th graders and is a 9-week session where students will experience a mix of acting basics designed to build confidence. No prior experience is necessary and there are a few spots still available.  The session culminates with a holiday-themed showcase on Tuesday, December 10, at 7 p.m. Classes run on Wednesdays and Thursdays from October 16-December 10, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Purcell Marian Theatre, Level 1. The cost is $50. To register, contact Admissions Coordinator Rachel Bronner at rbronner@purcellmarian.org or 513.751.1230 ext. 128.

About Nate Pucke
A Cincinnati native, Nate Pucke is a 2001 graduate of Purcell Marian, where he teaches theatre and film and his students describe him as "corny, but funny," "open-minded," and "down to earth." He has 15 years of experience directing grade and high school students in more than 100 productions and 30 years of experience as an actor, performing in 100+ plays/musicals.  Before coming back to Purcell Marian two years ago, Pucke served as the theatre director at Mount Notre Dame High School in Reading.

Teaching Philosophy
"I believe in being inclusive, rather than being exclusive. As long as students are willing to try and work, I can teach the rest. The best way to learn how to act is just get up there and do it. Mistakes may be made, but that is sometimes where the best lessons are learned. Our goal in the Acting Academy is to simply strive to be better than we were the last time. The ultimate goal is not to be perfect, because perfection is not a destination, but rather a journey."

Why Theatre?
"I believe theatre is important because it teaches practical lessons for everyday life.  From stress management to public speaking, the theater is a world where you can get hands-on experience. I also love theatre for the ensemble aspect, meaning for a show to work the actors, technicians, and house staff, all have to work together as one unit. No one's job is more important than anyone else's in theatre. All are of equal importance but are different. And therefore, great teamwork skills can be learned in theatre."

Favorite Theatre Quote
"Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! ... I have given you my soul; leave me my name!" - John Proctor, The Crucible