Melissa Cross has been dancing since she was 9 and has grown into a consummate and varied performer. After receiving her BFA in dance from the U of M she went on to work the next 2 years with the local experimental powerhouse, Vox Medusa Dance Company. As a lead dancer there she achieved the distinction, during the ‘Transcendance’ show in 2003, of being the only person to ever spin fire on the altar of St. Mary’s Basilica.

Her affair with fire began in 2000 as a choreographer and fire dancer for the band ‘Wookiefoot’. Performing at all their early shows and parties, and living the next 2 years at the infamous ‘Playhouse’ artist’s collective, sharpened her fire skills and broadened her mind.

Since joining Illumination in 2005 she has added her professional dance training and choreography experience to their ample arsenal of cutting edge talents; allowing the flickering flame to inform her movements and spark her artistry.

Fire props: Poi, staff, fans, fingers, palms, and wands.