Spotlight: Shelley Nielsen

My Way is showing here at Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre June 8-18, 2023! We reached out to actor, Shelley Nielsen to find out more about her and her experience working on this production.

What’s your favorite part of this show and why?

So excited for my debut performance with SART and to sing some of my favorite songs ever written. Opportunities like this continue to remind me that “The Best is (always) Yet to Come!”

What about this show do you think will stick with audiences?

I have a feeling everyone will be driving home with the windows down singing their favorite Sinatra songs at the top of their lungs!

What's your favorite Frank Sinatra song and why?

“My Funny Valentine” - I remember singing this song with Dad as a little kid. It holds a special place in my heart.

How did you get into theatre?

My dad was actually a High School Drama Teacher and he got me on stage perhaps before I was even in kindergarten. As a child, I was mesmerized by the magic, music, costumes, and (let's be honest,) the applause. That love has never faded. l and musical theater is a core part of who I am.

What’s your favorite thing to do in the area?

Asheville is “my kind of town!” Great music scene, hiking, culinary adventures and most importantly SO dog friendly. My favorite thing is being outside anywhere with my furbaby, Penny!

What have you loved about working on this production?

Hands down: Working with the incredibly talented cast and crew! Our rehearsal window for this show was extremely short which was new and challenging for me (though, I do LOVE a challenge!) The crew made us feel supported and secure as it ALL came together!

What have you loved so far about working with Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre?

The support, breadth of experienced colleagues, and utter professionalism!

Biography

Shelley Nielsen is getting a kick out of her debut performance with SART! Shelley moved back to NC in 2021 after 20 years of living in Chicago, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe. Previous roles include Violet in 9 to 5, Velma in Chicago, Papa Ge in Once on this Island, and most recently as Deb in Asheville Community Theater’s sold-out run of Elf: The Musical. But her favorite role is mom to her furbaby, Penny. Shelley is grateful for your support and to SART for reminding her “The Best is Yet to Come!”

Tickets for My Way are on sale now! Find out more here: https://www.sartplays.com/49