MELISSA RAMONDELLI

My dad wanted Joe DiMaggio but got Joe Hardy instead. He wanted someone who could hit it out of the ballpark but got a daughter who can hit an A6 or sing the national anthem. My talents laid elsewhere and my mother suggested I audition for a production of The Little Mermaid when I was in Kindergarten. And now, I prefer center stage to centerfield. From “Under the Sea” to graduating from the University of California: Los Angeles School of Theater, Film, and Television with an emphasis in Musical Theater, I am eager to pursue this passion!

My journey in the performing arts world has not been smooth sailing, though. When I was thirteen, I was diagnosed with vitiligo. I felt discouraged in my appearance and feared entering an entertainment world where there was hardly no representation. I have grown confident in my skin over the years and am hoping to use my gift and passion as a means of advocating for performers with skin conditions. I strive to be the role model that I wish I had for the next generation. 

When I’m not performing, I can be found with my nose in a book, blasting Taylor Swift music, or cheering for the New York Rangers and Yankees!