Melissa grew up in Smithville, New Jersey and made her way to NYC to receive her BFA in Commercial Dance from Pace University. While in college, Melissa was fortunate to work with guest choreographers such as Andy Blankenbuehler, Mandy Moore, Liz Imperio, and Liana Blackburn, to name a few. While still in school, Melissa played the role of Young Jeanne in the NYC Workshop presentation of the new musical The Nine Fathers of Ariel, directed and choreographed by Graciela Daniele and composed by Michael John LaChiusa.  From there, Melissa has gone on to perform in West Side Story (Carnegie Hall, Houston Grand Opera, Atlanta Opera), Paint Your Wagon (New York City Center Encores!), Finding Neverland First National Tour (original cast dance captain/swing), Disney’s Aladdin Second National Tour (dance captain/swing) Moulin Rouge the Musical First National Tour, and most recently made her Broadway Debut in Moulin Rouge the Musical! Melissa has also been seen on tv in The Blacklist, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Tonight Show, and beside James Corden in the opening number of the TONY Awards. Melissa has also worked on the creative team of shows such as West Side Story produced by Opera Australia (associate choreographer), Gone Missing at New York City Center Off-Center Encores (assistant choreographer to Karla Garcia) and Assistant Directing the English premier of the play Baipás George Street Playhouse (directed by Julio Monge).

Along with performing, Melissa has a love for teaching the next generation of artists. While on tour, Melissa taught workshops with Broadway Connection and Stage Door Access at studios around the country. She currently guest teaches at studios in the Tri-state area, as well as teaches privately within NYC when not performing. Melissa is thrilled to be on faculty with bold dance project!