SHANELLE MARIE credits her first acting teacher as her beloved grandmother, who would enchant her by reciting poetry and by bringing Paul Lawrence Dunbar’s words to life. This Columbus Ohio native further developed her interest in theatre while attending Fort Hayes Metropolitan School of Performing Arts and Miami University.
One of Shanelle’s most cherished moments on stage includes performing for actress Ruby Dee; poets Mari Evans, Nikki Giovanni and Sonia Sanchez; actress-director Val Gray Ward; and singer-songwriter Odetta, in their tribute. Coincidentally, she also played “Ruth” in A Raisin in the Sun, a role that Ruby Dee originated.
Recent local productions include, Good People (New Players Theatre), Attempts on Her Life (AVLT), and To Kill a Mockingbird (AVLT), and The Boxcar Children (Columbus Children’s Theatre). Her film credits includes Oracabessa, Premeditated, Heart of a Champion, and short films for Columbus’ 48 hour film competition. She has also appeared in regional industrial videos and commercials.