BE PART OF THE SOLUTION.

Melissa is a native New Yorker who always had a passion for the arts.  She loved to perform in her annual elementary school’s storytelling contests, and in her dance school recitals.  Melissa attended Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School as a theater major.  She went on to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts where she performed such works as CRUMBS FROM THE TABLE OF JOY, TROJAN WOMEN, BURY THE DEAD, HOT L BALTIMORE, DINNER AT EIGHT, and RIMERS OF ELDRITCH.  After graduating, Melissa performed in various Off-Broadway productions and short films, such as LIFE IS SHORT CHERISH EVERY MOMENT and "I love my Wife so I will Not cheat."  She loves dancing, swimming, and hanging out with her friends, and is determined and excited to continue and grow in her career.

The audition process for LTPR! was amazing.  Not knowing what I was about to walk into, I went over my poems, and made a note of every other girl auditioning for my role.  I had never been to an audition where everyone performed for each other.  Naturally, I went into competition mode and had it in my head I would show whomever it was that I was the best for this production.  As these amazing women began to share, that mentality quickly changed and I began to feel so many different things -- comfort that I am not alone in my love of this art, and scared because I now realize how many talented actresses there really are in NYC, on top of however else the poem made me feel.  Then working/playing together with these strangers, but giving so much of myself was amazing.  Naturally, I was so interested when I was called in to do the workshop.  During that time I learned and gained so much in my life.  Why wouldn't I want to help give a slice of this experience to someone else?