Schools
From Shy Middle Schooler to Gregarious Actor: Meet Noah Perito
Branford High School junior has come a long way in performing arts and will wow the crowds of Phantom of the Opera as he portrays, Ubaldo Piangi.
Noah Perito is every bit the professional as he speaks with grace and confidence about his three years participating with BHS performing arts. However, before landing a lead role as the lead tenor in the opera house for this year’s spring musical, , Perito was a “shy” kid.
After seeing the production of Guys and Dolls when Perito was in seventh grade, he said his sister convinced him to try out for next year’s show. He landed the part of a policeman in Annie and said, “I finally joined and I liked it.”
“After eighth grade,” said Perito, “I’ve been comfortable with the arts.” Perito has had ensemble roles in past spring productions including Pirates of Penzance and On the Town. His role in Phantom will be his first lead.
Find out what's happening in Branfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Q: How you do feel about your first lead role?
A: A little nervous but confident because she () wouldn’t have picked me if I couldn’t do it, so I am just going to do it.
Q: Tell us about your character Ubaldo Piangi; what do you like best…
A: I like his ability to hit the notes that are really high. He is so full of himself when he acts but also really supportive of the prima donna character Carlotta.
Find out what's happening in Branfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Q: How do you identify with Ubaldo Piangi?
A: He has a real enjoyment for the arts, which I also do. Though I am not an obnoxious person it’s fun to pretend to be one.
Q: What do you like best about performing?
A: I like to be able to relate to a piece of music. Lyrically or the mood of a song; how complicated or simple it can be.
Q: What was the first musical you ever saw?
A: Honk at Walsh Intermediate School. I thought it was really funny and there were a lot of people I idolized in the program and I wanted to be a part of it; not at their level even but just to sing with them at some point.
Q: What’s your advice to someone who is scared to join the performing arts program?
A: Just do it! We’re in a great town that no one is going to knock you or make fun of you. Everyone has got it in them.
Meet Shannon Hughes who plays Carlotta in next week's installment of .
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
