Umberto found the spotlight at an early age within his friends and family. Having a strong urge to perform and make people laugh, Umberto would often imitate his friends, teachers, and actors during and after class. Umberto would be deemed as "trouble maker" for his actions but teachers and fellow class mates enjoyed it so much that his principal asked for these portrayals to be delivered along with the morning announcements. Friends and teachers championed Umberto to pursue a career in entertainment until his English teacher wrote and directed a play specifically for Umberto. This performance earned Celisano the "Performance of Excellence" award at the Sears Ontario Drama Festival celebrated annually in Toronto.