Mélissa Smith
Teaching Artist
Since 2016 I have been independently leading workshops on the road around the US and abroad. I have led workshops in schools, libraries, universities, community centers and theaters for eager participants of varying ages and experience levels , BOTH in person and virtually.
I have been a Teaching Artist with Arts For All since 2011. Arts For All offers accessible artistic opportunities to children in the New York City area who face socio-economic, physical, or emotional barriers to exploring the arts. Through Arts For All, professional artists work with youth organizations to build self-confidence, self-expression, teamwork, resilience, and creativity in children.
Teaming up with ALEGRIA I was able to lead clowning workshops for youth living in transitional domestic violence prevention shelters in partnership with Sanctuary for Families, the leading nonprofit in New York State dedicated exclusively to serving domestic violence victims, sex trafficking victims, and their children.
In 2014 I Co-directed the Crown Heights Theater Workshop - a safe space where young people in the community are free to express themselves without the fear of judgement from anyone - adults and peers alike. We encouraged young people to tell their stories! The summer culminated in a performance of completly original works.
“I learned new things and met new people. I didn't get judged. This program helped me boost up my confidence.”
CHTW Student