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Now booking Sugar & Sazón:
A Cabaret

for
Fall 2025/
Winter
2026 

WATCH BELOW AND SEE WHAT AUDIENCES ARE SAYING!

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Melissa V. Cartwright

Bilingual singer/songwriter

I love blending pop, rock, Latin, and jazz, delivering a rich, soulful experience that moves audiences—whether through raw emotion or electrifying energy. Friends, familia, and fans often describe me as a powerhouse Latina singer, songwriter, and actress - like a female Marc Anthony with the soul of Adele. (I receive THAT!)

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With over 25 years in television, radio, studio recording, and musical theatre, my performance background includes starring as "Daniela" in Virginia Repertory Theatre’s In The Heights and originating roles in brand new works, such as "Eveline" in Pelagius The Musical by Mark Smith, and "Grace" in Nolan's Wake by Patti Veconi.
 

A proud "Georgia-Rican," born in Puerto Rico and raised in Atlanta, I've also performed in the Hampton Roads regional music scene at events hosted by Maracaibo Bistro, La Oficina, Elevation Brewery, Colonial Williamsburg, and with the Tidewater Arts Outreach program. My latest project & labor of love, Sugar & Sazón: Celebrating the Women in Latin Music Who’ve Shaped Us, is a cabaret that pays tribute to Latin musical icons, blending their stories with mine - for an unforgettable performance.
 

Beyond the stage, I'm the proud voice coach & founder of MVC Performance, where I help singers worldwide unleash their voices with confidence. As the host of the Passionate Performer PODCAST, I also share my expertise and love for music, inspiring artists to take center stage—either at their first open mic or as a festival headliner.

Whether I'm behind a mic or piano, every song I sing is infused with my signature spice or "sazón", inviting audiences to celebrate love, life, and the rhythms that connect us all.

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Planning an event? I'll bring the live música! 

Soulful sonidos & feel-good vibes

From laid-back cocktail hours to dance-it-out celebrations, let's help you  set the tone and lift the energy for your next gathering! No generic sets or karaoke parties - a feel-good musical experience that'll have you and your guests wishing the party didn't have to end. 

 

Interested? Fill out my inquiry form below to get started.

JAYA, marketing director - K'Bolá Cuban Restaurant & Bar

“She brought joy to our place & there's no denying that she makes you feel at home. We love her!”
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Upcoming performances

December 5

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Sip & Sing 

Coastal Fermentory UPTOWN
Newport News, VA

December 6

12:00 pm Fair Trade Festival

Elation Brewing
Norfolk, VA

December 12

2:00 pm

Jamestown Health & Rehabilitation
Williamsburg, VA

December 15

3:30 pm

Respite Care
Williamsburg, VA

December 22

2:30 pm

The Hamilton
Yorktown, VA

December 23

2:00 pm

The Arbors
Newport News, VA

Friday, January 16

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Winter Blues & Jazz Fest
Williamsburg, VA

Tuesday, March 17

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Party of the Ages Benefit
Virginia Beach, VA

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PRESS
WTKR Coast Live - Nolan's Wake Interview - November 2025

Música

We've got MERCH!

Cozy up in these comfy clothes and thanks for your support.
(10% off all Potato shirts benefit Sing For Hope (learn more).

Stay in the know with my Mel-Mail!

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Ready to make música together?

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