Born and raised in Oamaru, Melinda has been performing since age four, training and competing in tap-dancing competitions throughout the country.

She has performed in productions and concerts throughout the Otago region for over 10 years, during that time gaining a degree in Computer Programming and working On-Air/Promotions at The Radio Network.

Melinda continued to perform after a move to Auckland in 2011. Her musical theatre credits include: Thoroughly Modern Millie (North Shore Musical Theatre) for which she was nominated Best Leading Actress; Miss Saigon (North Shore Musical Theatre & Dunedin Operatic); Avenue Q (Manukau Performing Arts); Anything Goes (Auckland Music Theatre); The Producers, CATS, Chicago, Disney's Beauty and the Beast and Cabaret (Dunedin Operatic); and The Full Monty (Epiphany Productions).

Melinda continues to work in theatre, film and television whenever possible, most recently working on the international feature film Meg while also working as a dental hygienist/dental therapist on Auckland’s North Shore.

Priscilla, Queen of the Desert will be Melinda’s Showbiz Christchurch debut.