Special Guest Actor Nick Santa Maria (Part 1)

Nick Santa Maria

Nick Santa Maria is an accomplished actor, comedian, writer, and musician known for his extensive work in both theater and television. He began his career in comedy before shifting his focus to stage acting, appearing in numerous musicals and revues.

Nick and I talk old Hollywood and Getting Old in Hollywood. The trials and pitfalls of age-ism in a world where "everything is in the front window". Being born at the wrong time, in the wrong decade, oh yes, The MadDawg knows that one OH SO WELL. We'll talk about that and more on What's The Buzz Popcast!

https://www.nicksantamaria.com/

Early career and television

• Stand-up and improv: After moving from Long Island to Los Angeles, Santa Maria performed stand-up comedy and comedy improv, which led to his early television roles.
• Early TV roles: His first TV appearance was on the Buffalo Bill Show, where he played a young Jerry Lewis, a role that leveraged his well-known impression of the comedian.
• Film work: His film credits include a role in Mel Brooks' The Producers (2005).

Stage career and notable roles

• From TV to stage: A former improv teacher recommended Santa Maria for a role in the national tour of Grease!, starting his prolific career in theater.
• Broadway and Off-Broadway: He has been featured in Broadway productions like Grease! and Off-Broadway revues, including Secrets Every Smart Traveler Should Know.
• Musical theater performances: He has taken on several high-profile stage roles, such as Pseudolus in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Max in The Producers, Vince Fontaine in Grease!, and the Genie in Disney's Aladdin, A Musical Spectacular.
• Historical roles: Santa Maria was cast as John Hancock in a production of 1776, showcasing his ability to portray historical figures.

Writing and composing

• Children's television: In addition to his acting, Santa Maria has worked as a writer and composer for children's television.
• Theater revues: He has also written and composed various revues for the stage.

Additional interests

• Film history: Beyond his performing and writing, Santa Maria is also a film historian.
• Impressions: He is known for his skill with impressions, including Jerry Lewis and Shemp Howard.