Staff

Melissa Schnappauf

Owner

Melissa holds a BFA from Mason Gross School of the Arts and also attended the Lee Stasberg Institute of Acting in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience working with children in the Monmouth county area in both theater and dance.

Melissa grew up dancing, singing, and acting and at an early age developed a love of the arts. Because of her close proximity to NYC and a recommendation from a dance teacher she attended an open audition for Annie on Broadway. After many rounds of callbacks she was cast as an orphan in the National tour of Annie and at 10 years old traveled the country for the next 18 months. This experience instilled a great passion for the performing arts that carried through into adulthood.

While still performing Melissa also began teaching dance and theater to children and soon another spark was lit. Being able to combine her love of the arts with teaching children is truly a gift. Now as a parent of two daughters who are also involved in the performing arts she knows the important and invaluable life lessons that children learn through theater and dramatic arts.

Melissa truly believes that every child is an artist and is excited to bring Drama Kids to the children of Monmouth County. This program empowers children to grow and explore. They engage in imaginative play while building confidence and self-esteem. Children will learn the value of both teamwork and creative thinking that they can use not only on stage but in school, work, and throughout their lives.