A Conversation With Philadelphia’s Own Nick Stuccio

Abstract

Nick Stuccio’s career in the arts began with an intensive study of classical ballet at Skidmore College, where he also earned a degree in Biology. His dedication to the form led to an apprenticeship with the Pennsylvania Ballet and eventually a position as a corps member with the company where he danced for eight years. At the Ballet, Nick danced under the artistic direction of Ricky Weiss, Christopher d’Amboise and Roy Kaiser. Nick retired as a dancer and began producing full-time in 1995. He co-founded the Philadelphia Fringe Festival (now the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival & Philly Fringe) in 1997 and that same year was named “Person of the Year” by the Philadelphia Weekly. He was included in Philadelphia Magazine’s 2000 edition of “People to Watch” and their 2009 edition of “The Power 50,” a ranking of the most influential Philadelphians. His many production credits include co-founding Shut Up and Dance, the popular annual benefit that showcases work choreographed and performed by dancers of the Pennsylvania Ballet and raises more than $100,000 net every year to benefit the Metropolitan Aids Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA). Nick was also the original curator of the Wilma Theatre’s Dance Boom series and served in that role from 2002-2005. Other leadership roles include producing two dance films and serving on the Philadelphia Cultural Fund board for the past six years. In 2005, Nick was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts by the University of the Arts.