Melissa O'Sullivian

Melissa O'Sullivian
(Irish/TAPS/All Stars Dance Instructor)

Melissa began Irish dancing in Oakland, CA at the age of 4 and started solo competitions at 5 years old. In high school she was a member of the prestigious James Logan Dance Ensemble. The Dance Ensemble competed throughout the western United States and Hawaii. Melissa was awarded MVP her senior year. After high school, Melissa joined the World Champion Santa Clara Vanguard drum corps as a member of the corps� color guard. In 1991, she represented the Vanguard as an All Star Dance Soloist in Phoenix, Arizona. Melissa earned a B.A. in Dance from San Jose State University. Melissa became a featured dancer and vocal soloist for the Jazz Dance Ensemble, a musical theater and jazz company under the direction of Janie Scott. In 1993, she earned a scholarship to the Jose Limon Modern Dance Workshop in San Jose.Melissa performed in several musicals at San Jose State including "The Wiz", " Celebration" and "Gospel at Colonus". She became the first student to ever choreograph a University musical with the SJSU production "Working". During her time at San Jose State University, she performed as a member of the Spartan Spectrum Dance Team, which entertained audiences during SJSU football games. She later became the Spartan Spectrum’s choreographer and helped develop the skills of dozens of Spectrum performers. Upon graduating from college, Melissa returned to James Logan High School where she led the school’s dance competition teams to regional championships two years in a row. She also taught dance at Hayward High School where she produced and directed one of the school’s most successful dance concerts. Outside of teaching, Melissa became a respected Movement Judge for the California Colorguard circuit for four years. After moving to Sacramento in 1998, Melissa became an assistant cheerleading coach for the Folsom Junior Midgets and helped the group win Regional and State Championships in 2000. Melissa has taught at the Academy since December of 2000. She is the Director for the All Stars Performance Company and teaches Irish, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop and Musical Theater. She also offers private lessons.

Melissa O'Sullivian (Irish/TAPS/All Stars Dance Instructor)

Melissa O'Sullivian
(Irish/TAPS/All Stars Dance Instructor)