From Seussical to Center Stage: The Audition That Sparked a Career
- Andy Vutam
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 27
When Alex Purcell walked into his first audition for Seussical the Musical at Woodside High School, he never imagined that moment would set him on a lifelong journey in film, TV and onstage. Today, Alex’s acting career is thriving. After captivating audiences in regional theater, he stormed Broadway in Glengarry Glen Ross, performing alongside icons like Bob Odenkirk and Kieran Culkin.
Recently, Alex sat down to share his path from shy high schooler to accomplished actor—and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
A Surprise Beginning
Alex didn’t start out chasing the spotlight. His early passion was filmmaking. But when a friend encouraged him to audition for Seussical the Musical, he decided to give it a try.
“When I got a callback for a major role, I panicked,” Alex laughed. “I didn’t think I had the skills. But once I stepped on stage, something clicked. The energy, the connection—it was addictive.”
That first performance sparked more than applause. It planted the seeds of a lifelong love for theater.
The Power of Support
Like many first-time performers, Alex faced nerves and uncertainty. “I was shy and didn’t know what I was doing,” he admitted. But encouragement from WHS's production team and the camaraderie from his fellow cast mates changed everything. “They believed in me before I believed in myself,” he said. “That kind of support gave me confidence—and it’s something I try to give to others now.”
Breaking Into Professional Theater
After his graduation, Alex immersed himself in an 11-week intensive program that fueled his passion even further. From there, he applied to a full-time theater program and landed his first professional opportunity with the Cincinnati Playhouse.
“It didn’t happen right away,” Alex recalled. “I didn’t get the part the first time I auditioned. But I stayed ready, and when a spot opened, I jumped at it.”
That one “yes” opened the door to a career built on persistence, learning, and love for the craft.
Alex's Advice for Future Wildcat Performers
Alex knows the road isn’t always easy for young performers. His advice?
Embrace every role—no matter the size. Every moment on stage matters.
Stay connected—relationships in theater are everything.
Love what you do—because the challenges will test you.
“The moments you’re proudest of are usually the ones that scared you the most,” Alex shared.
Follow Alex’s next chapter on and off the stage—check out his official site. https://www.alexgpurcell.com/
Why This Matters for Our Students
Alex’s journey is exactly what Legacy in Lights celebrates: the incredible impact of the Woodside Performing Arts program on students who go on to make their mark in the arts.
These stories remind us why we work so hard to sustain this program—because behind every curtain rise could be the start of someone’s dream.
Join the Legacy in Lights Campaign
Your support helps create more stories like Alex’s. When you give to Legacy in Lights, you’re not just funding costumes or sets—you’re investing in confidence, creativity, and futures that shine bright on stages all over the world.
