Owner and Artistic Director of Port Perry School of the Performing Arts

At the helm of the Port Perry School of the Performing Arts is the visionary leader and passionate artist, Melissa Karly. From her first dance steps at the tender age of three, Melissa’s journey into the world of performing arts has been nothing short of extraordinary.

A Childhood Affair with Dance and Music:

Melissa’s love affair with dance ignited at the age of three, setting the stage for a lifelong connection with the world of performing arts. Her boundless enthusiasm for the arts manifested early on, as she secured her first vocal solo in a community choir at the age of five. This moment marked the beginning of her profound love for the stage.

Recognizing her flair for performance, Melissa delved into vocal lessons, later adding piano and guitar to her repertoire to accompany her own singing. In middle school, she expanded her musical horizons by mastering concert band instruments, showcasing her versatility in the realm of music.

The Rise of a Triple Threat:

Melissa’s artistic journey extended beyond the confines of traditional performing arts. In her formative years, she entered the world of modeling and acting, quickly making a name for herself with commercials, TV shows, and various on-camera opportunities. It became evident that her talents spanned across multiple disciplines.

A Diverse Artistic Portfolio:

Musical theatre became the canvas where Melissa painted with her triple-threat talents, seamlessly blending singing, acting, and dancing. Her presence graced numerous musical productions, allowing her to express her artistic prowess fully. Alongside her musical endeavors, she joined bands and even found time to coach gymnastics, showcasing the breadth of her artistic interests.

Educational Pursuits:

Melissa’s dedication to the arts extended to her academic endeavors. She pursued higher education at York University, earning both a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and a Bachelor of Education. Armed with a robust educational background, she honed her skills and further deepened her understanding of the arts.

Educator and Community Builder:

Since 2009, Melissa has been imparting her knowledge and passion for music (both vocal and instrumental), dance, and drama as an esteemed educator with the Durham District School Board. Her dedication to fostering the next generation of artists has been a guiding force in her career. 

A Diverse Artistic Portfolio:

Venturing into the world of musical theatre, Melissa emerged as a seasoned director, orchestrating captivating productions. With her current school, she has directed spellbinding performances of “Aladdin,” “High School Musical,” and “Shrek the Musical,” leaving an indelible mark on the local arts scene. 

Proud Owner and Artistic Director:

Melissa Karly is not just an educator; she is the proud owner and Artistic Director of the Port Perry School of the Performing Arts. Through her studio, she brings her wealth of experience, creativity, and love for the performing arts to the local community. Melissa finds joy in sharing her passion with students, guiding them on their own journeys of artistic discovery.

Life Beyond the Stage:

When not immersed in the world of teaching and directing, Melissa finds solace and joy in her personal life. She resides in Scugog with her husband, Jp, and their children, Jamieson and Shayne. This family is completed by two golden retrievers, Honey and Oakley, and a bearded dragon named Scratch. Family time is precious for Melissa, and she treasures moments of laughter, connection, and shared experiences with her loved ones.

Under Melissa’s leadership, the Port Perry School of the Performing Arts stands as a beacon of artistic expression, providing a nurturing environment where individuals of all ages can explore, learn, and flourish in the magical world of performing arts.