About Mélissa Smith

Mélissa Smith (she/her) is a multi-media maker, performer, educator and author. She is a proud New York Foundation for the Arts Women's Fund Grantee, for "Blast Off! (to space) The Show". Mélissa created and performed the solo clown show “The Magician’s Assistant,” which had its NY debut as part of Frigid Fest in 2017 (Winner - Best Family Show).  It then went on to play all 5 boroughs as part of the Arts for All Audience Project. She is the co-producer, creator and host of the 3 season Youtube show “Mondays with Mé” presented by Arts For All. Mélissa is also a member of the band for Family audiences Bee Parks and the Hornets and often collaborates with award-winning family music band Ants on a Log. 

Mélissa started clowning in her teen years as a form of community outreach visiting hospitals & hurricane relief areas. After earning her Bachelor's degree in Theater with a focus on dance composition and creative writing- she went on to study theatrical clowning and physical theater at Del' Arte School for Physical Theater, she almost joined the circus and then trained under former Ringling Bros clowns at NY Goofs. She has led clowning workshops for all ages and has clowned on film, on stage and is passionate about helping others connect to their inner clown.