Biography for
Melissa Haizlip More at IMDbPro »

Date of Birth

Mini Biography

After attending Yale, Melissa moved to New York to pursue a Broadway career. Born in Boston, MA and raised in the Virgin Islands and New Haven, CT, Melissa began studying classical piano, acting and dance at an early age. After mentoring with such luminaries as Alvin Ailey, Arthur Mitchell and Henry LeTang, Melissa's early career in musical theatre began with her Broadway debut in David Merrick's "Oh, Kay!" Soon following were "Jelly's Last Jam," written and directed by George C. Wolfe, and "A Christmas Carol" directed by Susan Stroman. Off-Broadway she appeared as the legendary Josephine Baker in "The Dark Star from Harlem." Melissa splits her time between television and theatre, touring the USA and abroad. She has appeared in many national commercials and is a sought-after voice over actor for television, radio, and narration.

She lives and works in Los Angeles.

Trivia

Daughter of authors Shirlee Taylor Haizlip and Harold Haizlip.

Niece of actress Mauryne Brent.

Married to Don Wildman.

Has worked with Gregory Hines in two films and danced with him on Broadway.

Grew up in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.

Went to Yale.

Loves to swim, and is SCUBA certified.

Danced with Mikhail Baryshnikov in The Gershwin Gala for Great Performances on PBS.

Is related to both jazz pianist Billy Taylor and the late television producer Ellis Haizlip.

Directing and producing a documentary about her uncle Ellis Haizlip, the pioneering producer/host of the groundbreaking black arts television series "Soul!".

Where Are They Now

(January 2010) Los Angeles, CA, where she is directing and producing a documentary about her uncle Ellis Haizlip, the pioneering producer/host of the groundbreaking black arts television series "Soul!"