Dan Kelly, a remarkably gifted thespian hailing from the vibrant city of Springfield, Massachusetts, has successfully transitioned his base of operations to the bustling metropolis of New York, where he continues to enthrall and mesmerize audiences with his impressive acting prowess, a skillset that has been honed and refined since the tender age of 11.
His inaugural foray into the world of theatrical performance, a memorable turn as a Chair in the middle school production of Beauty and the Beast, served as the catalyst for a career that would ultimately unfold in a most illustrious and storied manner.
Dan's early life was marked by an impressive array of theatrical endeavors, with a staggering 30-plus productions under his belt, spread across a diverse range of community, conservatory, and regional theaters situated throughout Western Massachusetts.
In addition to his extensive stage experience, Dan also developed his comedic chops through a series of performances that showcased his versatility and quick wit. He took to the standup comedy circuit, delighting audiences with his sharp humor and clever observations. Furthermore, he joined forces with a Springfield-based comedy improv troupe, further refining his comedic skills through the art of improvisation.
Dan, a visionary entrepreneur, co-established Wet Paint Theatre in 2015, a student-run theatre company that revolutionized the Western Massachusetts performing arts scene by offering a dynamic platform for emerging artists to exhibit their creative talents. As a pivotal founder, Dan donned multiple hats, penning, producing, and starring in not one, but two original musicals, which made their world premiere at The Drama Studio in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Dan's educational journey began with his high school graduation in 2017, after which he made the bold decision to relocate to the vibrant city of New York, driven by his passion for the performing arts. He enrolled at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, a prestigious institution renowned for its excellence in training aspiring actors. During his time at the Academy, Dan devoted himself to honing his craft, pouring his heart and soul into his studies.
Upon the successful completion of his academic tenure, Dan was presented with a remarkable opportunity to join the Academy's esteemed 2019-2020 Company, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. With great enthusiasm, Dan accepted the offer and immersed himself in the Company's rigorous training program. After an intensive period of growth and development, Dan's tenure with the Company came to a close in January 2020, marking a significant milestone in his journey as a performer.
Dan has been actively engaged in a multitude of off-Broadway theatrical pursuits within the vibrant cityscape of New York, with a string of notable performances to his credit. Among these, he has taken on the role of a lead character in the provocative and emotionally charged production "Dear Mom, Sorry for Being a Bitch" at The Soho Playhouse, a venue renowned for its avant-garde and experimental approach to storytelling. Additionally, Dan has also had the opportunity to showcase his talents in "Midsummer: The Dreamer" at HERE Arts Center, a cultural institution committed to fostering innovative and boundary-pushing artistic expression. Most recently, he has further expanded his repertoire by appearing in the 2023 film "Outed", a cinematic endeavor that has allowed him to explore new creative avenues and push the boundaries of his craft.
