coLAB Arts is thrilled to welcome Melissa Firlit as the director and lead deviser of our first-ever Devised Theater Institute for high school students this summer. With over two decades of experience as a director, educator, and champion of new work, Melissa brings unparalleled creativity, mentorship, and passion to the Devised Theater Institute. Her commitment to nurturing young artists and fostering bold, collaborative storytelling makes her an ideal leader for this exciting new initiative. Read more about Melissa’s experience below:
Melissa Firlit has dedicated over 20 years to a life in the arts, championing new voices and shaping the next generation of theatre artists. She is bringing that talent to coLAB Arts this summer as the director and lead deviser with the inaugural coLAB Arts Devised Theater Institute for high school students.
As a director, educator, and mentor, she brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to every project. She teaches at one of the nation’s top BFA Musical Theatre programs, Molloy University/CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory, and previously served as the Director of the Summer Youth Academy Musical Theatre Program at The College of Saint Rose for eight years. In addition, she has worked as a teaching artist with McCarter Theatre and numerous organizations across the country.
Her directing career spans national and international stages, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Ireland’s National Tour, 59E59, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Mile Square Theatre, and more. She has helmed an impressive range of productions, from bold new works to celebrated classics such as Jekyll & Hyde, Proof, A Few Good Men, Dracula, Men on Boats, and Pirates of Penzance.
Melissa is the Artistic Director of Resolve Productions and has been instrumental in developing new plays through programs like the Thingamajig Playwrights Festival. Her work has earned multiple honors, including nominations for the Henry Awards, Broadway World Denver Awards, and the Alan Schneider Director Award.
Deeply influenced by Uta Hagen and the Frantic Method, she continues to push artistic boundaries while fostering a community of collaboration and innovation. Based in New York City, she holds an MFA in Directing from Rutgers University and a BA in Theatre from the University of Hartford.
Learn more at www.melissafirlit.com.