Meet Melissa Snow | Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Snow and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, why did you pursue a creative career?
I was raised in an artistic and creative family. My father was a choreographer for television and taught dance and my mother was an artist. Through my upbringing I learned that creative expression was vital to mental development and health. I learned to think outside of the box, I used creative expression to work through difficult situations and felt the passion that music and dance brought me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I began dancing at the age of 6. As I said, I was raised in a house full of creative expression. I danced competitively through high school as well as studying theater and voice. I performed in numerous ballets and community theatre productions all preparing me for the start of my career with the Disney company. I worked as a parade performer and stage performer for six years. I always had an interest in early childhood education and the effects of creative expression in children. I was certified in early childhood education. In 1992 my husband took a job here in Az. I intended on teaching elementary school but immediately was hired by a dance studio. This is when I discovered that I could combine my two passions, teaching a creative art to children. I stumbled upon Ahwatukee Children’s Theatre when my youngest daughter, at the time, wanted to sing. This was the turning point in my career. Upon my daughter joining the children’s choir, it was discovered by Michele that I was a dance teacher. It so happened they were in need of a choreographer and that was the beginning of a beautiful partnership. As I worked from show to show, it was clear that this was the position I was meant to be in. This used every art form I had been trained in and my background as a performer allowed me to share my experience with children that shared my passion.

When Michele had to make the decision to move, we were in the middle of Covid. Things looked very bleak for the company as we had not been able to hold any classes or rehearsals. She expressed her sadness that it might be time to let the theatre go. I felt so strongly that when we came out of Covid, there was going to be such a need for creative expression . I explained to Michele my feeling and she thought I was crazy to start from scratch and rebuild but I just knew in my heart what it meant to the families and the comfort that having the theatre constant in their lives would mean.
My heart was right and when we were able to start up again, doors opened for us and we filled the classrooms with eager children bursting with creativity. We have been able to return to a full schedule of MainStage shows and new classes that are allowing us to reach more clientele. We have added classes in technical work, andstage management. We have expanded our straight acting programs and now offer adult opportunities with shows and classes.
We went through a re brand last year changing our name to Arizona Community Theatrical Company. This levitates our focus on inclusion. And community. We provide an all people a safe space to express themselves. We were formed to bring a variety of people together into one community through the joy of performing.
It is a place where educational programs become performances and challenges are overcome through connection.
We guide and direct as we develop and grow into the best performers we can be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the desert most in the spring. It is a perfect time for showing off Arizona. I would plan a Spring training game, the Angels of course since they are my home town team. I always choose lawn because it makes me feel like I am just at a park and this amazing game just happens to be going on. After the game we would plan an early dinner at the Hidden House in Tempe. I love dining on their patio. The ambience and service is amazing. I would plan a brunch on the patio at Hillside Spot in Ahwatukee , a visit to the Phoenix Zoo in this beautiful weather. I enjoy themed bars like the White Rabbit in Gilbert. It makes sense that I want to immerse myself in a setting when I am relaxing. I always enjoy the Hale Theatre for a show. I am always in awe at how they use their space to transform the audience in that theatre and bring them into the show.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been blessed to be surrounded by supportive individuals through the stages of my life. My dedication for where I am in my career now and the whole reasons I am Executive Director of AZ ACT is to Michele Rubino. Michele founded Ahwatukee Children’s Theatre 25 years ago. I was fortunate enough to work beside her for 18 years. She lead the company with compassion, strength, humor and creativity. Upon her moving across country, I stepped in to fill those very big shoes to continue her legacy.

Website: azact.org

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Facebook: AZ ACT Arizona Community Theatre Company