Melanie Morrissey knew all along that her dream was to open her own studio. With 27 years experience in theater, dance, acting, musical theater, voice, and film, Morrissey dreamed of providing the perfect creative environment to encourage students to grow to their fullest potential and gain confidence in the performing arts.

When she was ready to take the leap, Morrissey took advantage of a free startup assistance workshop offered by the RISBDC called The Right Foot. Following the workshop, she quickly met with Monique Giguere, an RISBDC business counselor, with her outlined business idea and announced she wanted to open the studio within three months.

Morrissey and her business counselor immediately went to work, registering the business, developing a business plan, securing funding, designing a website, and marketing the brand with an eye on an upcoming grand opening. In September 2016, Artistic Melodies performing arts studio opened in Warwick, RI, marking another dream fulfilled.

“This journey would not have been so successful without the help of the RISBDC,” said Morrissey. “Their guidance and advice helped me beyond my expectations and I am so forever thankful.”

With a mission to provide a fun environment to encourage and foster creativity and confidence in theater and arts for children, young adults, and adults, Artistic Melodies, like Morrissey, is off and running. Good luck, Melanie, and thanks for letting us be part of your journey!