We recently connected with Melody Yasaman Baha and have shared our conversation below.
Melody Yasaman, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I grew up performing from the age of four, singing and acting in front of family and friends. Whether it was in musicals, recitals, plays, or my school drama class, I was always on stage, and I loved every moment of it. Performing felt completely natural to me and became a vital form of self-expression. Since I struggled to share my feelings with others, I found my voice through performance.
The defining moment in my journey came when I auditioned for Aladdin in middle school. Standing on stage before the director, producer, and casting team, I poured my heart into the audition, singing for the role of Jasmine. After I finished, the director paused, looked at me thoughtfully, and said, “You are so talented. You make me wonder about something.” Confused, I thought, “Wonder about what?” Then she asked if I’d consider playing a male role—the Sultan, Jasmine’s father. This unexpected idea sparked my curiosity; it felt both intimidating and exhilarating. I realized this could be a pivotal moment in my path as an actor, a chance to showcase my versatility and push myself to new heights.
A big part of me was really scared. I didn’t know how audiences would react, and I worried that I might not be good enough for Jasmine, like I didn’t fully look the part. Taking on a male character felt strange, and I felt insecure about my body, my appearance, and how I would come across. But I embraced the nerves and recognized the honor in stepping into the shoes of such a unique character. In the end, I felt proud. I understood that there are no small characters, only small actors.
I accepted the role and rehearsed for a production that would take place on the biggest stage I’d ever performed on—the Escondido Center for Performing Arts—alongside some of the most talented and supportive people I could have hoped for. It was a magical experience that I’ll never forget. Working with a director who truly believed in me and made me feel seen and understood was transformative. I formed friendships with talented, gracious people who I’ll always remember, and I felt like part of a real community.
During that production, I knew without a doubt that this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The thrill of being on a large theatrical stage, mic’d up, flying on a makeshift carpet, and collaborating with other creatives was indescribable. The theater had over 400 seats, and performing for that audience was an unforgettable experience.
From that moment on, I kept pursuing my passion, never looking back.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a multifaceted creative based in New York City. My journey in the entertainment industry began in San Diego, where I was introduced to acting at a young age in elementary school, starring in theater shows. By the time I was 13, I started auditioning for film and tv. I had a talent manager, and by 14, I had secured my first agent. My mother played an instrumental role in my early career, driving me to countless auditions in Los Angeles. She believed in my talent and dreams, which instilled in me a strong sense of purpose.
However, after spending many exhausting years in Los Angeles, I realized the environment had become superficial and draining. I faced numerous challenges, including one particularly disheartening audition where I was dismissed for not fitting the conventional mold of a leading lady. This experience, among others, made me question my place in the industry, prompting me to take a step back and rediscover my passion for acting and storytelling.
When I turned 22, I made the pivotal decision to move to New York City to attend The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. This shift was transformative. Surrounded by the vibrant energy and diverse culture of NYC, I found renewed inspiration. It was there that I connected with a group of talented women in my final semester, and together, we crafted characters and storylines that resonated deeply with us. This collaboration sparked the idea to create my own production company, Melodically Productions, with the goal of amplifying untold stories, especially those of women who are often underrepresented on screen.
At Melodically Productions, I wear many hats: I act, produce, write, and have recently ventured into directing. My love for the craft is fueled by the energy and passion that actors bring to their roles. I aim to create work that is odd, out of this world, and pushes the boundaries of imagination, much like sci-fi projects. As an Iranian woman, I’m committed to seeing more of us represented in film, television, and on stage. Movements like “Women, Life, Freedom” serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of women. They inspire me to amplify voices and stories that celebrate courage, humanity, and the pursuit of freedom in all its forms.
A core mission is mentorship. I strive to create a space where I can share my knowledge while also learning from others—because regardless of experience, there’s always something new to discover. I aim to cultivate a welcoming environment for underrepresented creatives, both in front of and behind the camera, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are integral to our storytelling.
My focus is on empowering women and providing creatives with hands-on opportunities to create films and music videos using our resources, equipment, and talent. My vision is to build not just a platform, but an empire where creatives can thrive and grow together.Additionally, I’m passionate about driving awareness around body inclusivity. As a curvy woman, I know firsthand how underrepresented bodies are in the industry, and I believe it’s essential to showcase diverse body types in our stories.
What sets me apart is my dedication to creating a supportive community where creativity can flourish. I’m particularly proud of the relationships I’ve built along the way and the stories we’ve created together. Currently, I’m focused on developing a unique project with my best friend and producer, which has been a labor of love for the past three years. I can’t wait to share it with the world!
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my mission is to inspire and uplift. The beauty of creativity lies in its ability to transcend barriers and foster connection. I invite you to join me on this journey as we explore new narratives, celebrate diversity, and support the incredible power of storytelling.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Honestly, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the opportunity to embrace the humanity and complexity of being a raw human being, complete with open wounds, trauma, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. There’s a beautiful openness to this craft. There is no right or wrong way to express what you feel. It’s about stepping into the shoes of someone you may never meet and telling their story to the best of your ability.
When I perform, I feel liberated. I can express parts of myself that I often keep hidden, sharing emotions and experiences that I might be too scared to reveal otherwise. It’s truly an honor to portray diverse characters and circumstances. This process is vulnerable and scary, but also incredibly fun and therapeutic. Each performance allows me to connect with audiences on a deeper level, reminding us all of our shared human experience.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One thing I think non-creatives might struggle to understand about my journey is the constant questioning and doubt that comes from outside perspectives. I often hear, “What’s your plan B?” or “What if you don’t make it?” There are also questions like, “Why do you want everyone to know your life publicly?” or “How do you find the time?”
It’s easy to criticize someone else’s journey when you’re not passionate about what you’re doing in your own life. I understand the concern behind these questions, especially when people are uncertain about their own paths. But for me, this isn’t just my Plan A; it’s my Plan B, C, and all the way to Z. I do what I need to support my lifestyle and my goals, but I never lose sight of what I truly want to achieve.
I’m grateful for the jobs I’ve had that have helped me build meaningful connections, but I’ve never had a day where I didn’t want to be a creative person. Sometimes, that means canceling plans because I get a last-minute audition or I need to focus on writing or watching films. It can feel isolating, but it’s an essential part of my creative journey and helps me build the characters I portray.
If you truly love something, you’ll find a way to balance your personal life with your professional aspirations. Sacrifices are often necessary today for the future you want. If you have doubts about what you’re pursuing, listen to that voice. If you feel a desire to do something more fulfilling but worry about what others think—your family, friends, or peers—trust your intuition and go for it. Forget what others tell you.
If I had listened to the doubts and naysayers, I might still be stuck working in retail and feeling miserable. While some may find joy in that, I encourage everyone not to settle. Do what makes you happy, take a chance on yourself, and remember: you can either take a chance and find fulfillment or play it safe and remain unhappy. The choice is yours.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://melodybaha.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melodybaha/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bahamelody/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melodybaha
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC815CJ7uTUoKLuDcdTKfxbw
Image Credits
Jovani Demetri (Headshots only)