Hailing from Milwaukee, Melissa’s ballet career has seen her perform in Soloist and Principal Roles with renowned companies such as the Icelandic Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Ballet Teatro Municipal de San Juan, and the Orlando Ballet. She also notably performed with the Danceworks Performance Company for more than fifteen years, under the Direction of Sara Wilbur and Dani Kuepper.

Transitioning from the stage to the studio, Melissa’s passion for ballet has led her to become a beloved teacher at institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Peck School of the Arts and Marquette University. She also shares her expertise with studios and dancers across the Greater Milwaukee Area. She is a sought-after guest Master Teacher at national dance conventions, including Dance Masters of Wisconsin and Southern Dance Masters. 

Certified by the American Ballet Theatre (ABTⓇ), Melissa is committed to teaching ballet in a kind, body-friendly manner, preserving its beauty and technique while shedding the “old school” stereotypes. In 2024, she was honored with the Artistic Achievement Award from the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. 

You can connect with Melissa on Instagram at BalletHealthMelissa, on Facebook at Melissa L. Anderson, and on her YouTube channel @MelissofiaFilms, where she continues to uplift and inspire dancers with her infectious enthusiasm and expertise.