Professional Actor, Singer, and Songwriter Returns to Washington Township High School
For Immediate Release
July 25, 2024
Summer Theatre Conservatory program students pose for a group photo with Justin Mortelliti.
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP – On July 11, 2024, Washington Township High School welcomed the return of Justin Mortelliti, a professional actor, singer, and songwriter, to his alma mater to work with high school theatre students during the inaugural Summer Theatre Conservatory program.
Mortelliti was born in Philadelphia and raised in Washington Township. Growing up, Mortelliti studied music, voice, and violin and furthered his education with acting training at Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University and The London Academy of Theater. Currently residing in New York City, Mortelliti has built a career in theater, television, and film in Los Angeles, New York, and Las Vegas. Professional credits include Escape to Margaritaville (Original Broadway Cast); Clueless: The Musical and The Columbine Project (Off Broadway); Rock of Ages (Original Las Vegas Cast); among other regional productions. He was also a guest star on Law & Order: Organized Crime, NCIS: New Orleans, Manhunt: Deadly Games, recurring on AMC's TURN: Washington's Spies; Orange is the New Black; Numb3rs; Victorious; The Collection; and Dog Tags.
Also an accomplished recording artist and writer, Mortelliti has released two solo albums: “The Prince of April” and “The Fall and Rise.” His music has been featured in both web TV and feature film. He also has released two singles with Shannon Hunt as the pop duo “Stefi & Pepper.” Mortelliti currently is penning music for a new pop musical in development, The Ladies Man.
During his visit, Mortelliti offered insights into the entertainment industry and shared his professional journey. He also worked with students through a series of interactive warm-ups and activities to help them elevate characters in monologues and scenes with more definitive and purposeful acting choices that support the objectives and goals of the text. Students commented that “[they’ve] never seen [their] peers be able to connect with their pieces on such a deeper level so quickly” and that “...[Justin] really related to us and was super involved with getting to know us. He was also understanding about how we need to feel like the character to be the character.”
When asked about his return to WTHS, Justin said, “I haven’t been back to WTHS since I graduated. It was a very surreal experience – walking the halls, seeing my old locker, and standing on the stage where I had created some of my best and favorite memories. I actually said ‘thank you’ out loud while standing alone backstage after everyone had left because that’s where I first fell in love with theater and found confidence in myself, and I’m so grateful. Seeing the joy, excitement, and thirst for knowledge in the kids was really inspiring. Seeing their eyes full of wonder and curiosity for this art form made me remember what it’s like to have dreams at that age.”
Principal Ray Anderson, a former classmate of Justin Mortelliti, commented: “Having Justin join us to share his experience and expertise in theatre with our students was memorable and so very appreciated. Justin’s high energy, talent, and focused critiques will help our students as they continue to develop their acting skills in our Theatre Academy with their Director, Mr. John Stephan. We look forward to maintaining a strong relationship with Justin for years to come!”
The visit aligns with the Washington Township High School Theatre Department’s commitment to enriching students' educational experiences and fostering a supportive community that encourages creative and professional growth. Mortelliti’s return to Washington Township High School serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact of dedication and hard work, and how one’s dreams can become reality with perseverance and talent.
- WTPS -
