Spotlight On...Melissa Harlow

Name: Melissa Harlow

Hometown: St. Louis, MO

Education: B.A. Theatre, B.A. Communications Southwest Baptist Univerity

Select Credits:  Currently performing as Elmire in Calvary Theatre Guild's production of Tartuffe and reprising my role as the Nurse in Castle Shakespeare Repertory's productions of Romeo & Juliet.

Why theater?: Its always been theatre.

Tell us about If the Saints Arrive in Germany: This show resonates with me because it explores faith in the context of fear.  So, although it is about a convent in Germany many many years ago, the theme is still relevant for us today.

What is it like being a part of If the Saints Arrive in Germany?: I think there is something special about working with a cast of all women.  I also love that we are performing in an environmental theatre/found space.  Metro Baptist Church allows us to be transformed into the complete environment of the play.

What kind of theater speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: I love to watch all forms of theatre.  Although, my favorite type to perform is contemporary comedies. I've been on a big Norbert Leo Butz kick lately.  I admire his approach to characters and stage presence.

Any roles you’re dying to play?: Ms. Hannigan from Annie and anyone in any of David Lindsay Abaire's shows.

What’s your favorite showtune?:  NOT "Bushel and a Peck" from Guys and Dolls, yet its been in my head for.ev.er.  Ask my husband, I am always unconsciously singing it, and it is not cool.

If you could work with anyone you’ve yet to work with, who would it be?: You, Michael ;)

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: Elizabeth Banks, “Hey Girl Hey”

What show have you recommended to your friends?: Hand to God

What’s the most played song on your iTunes?: Honestly, I just went and looked and its "If I Could Teach the World" by Bone Thugs n Harmony.  Seriously.  We're talking over 10 years of iTunes play though.

What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?: Double doozies.  Those monster cookie sandwiches with icing in the middle.  Thank God there is no Great American Cookie Company near my apt.

What’s up next?: I'm going to Missouri in August to perform in the world premiere of Joy Powell's Cover.  She is the (among many many other brilliant things) the chaplain at an agency called The Covering House that rescues sex trafficking victims.  This show is their story.

For more on Melissa, visit  http://melissasueh.wix.com/melissaharlow