About Vanessa

Vanessa Isabel Porras is a senior Musical Theatre student at the Manhattan School of Music. She is a part of the inaugural class of musical theatre majors and is studying with many esteemed artists in the New York City theatre industry. Vanessa was born in San Francisco, California to two very loving parents who immigrated as refugees from Nicaragua about 15 years prior. She identifies proudly with her Nicaraguan-American heritage because growing up with two cultures has only enriched and cultivated her artistry. Vanessa grew up singing in choirs for 10 years, but stumbled upon musical theatre in high school when she decided to audition for In the Heights; she’s been in love with musical theatre ever since. While at MSM, Vanessa has been a part of the Freshman Showcase, the Cole Porter Showcase, The Tony Award Showcase, Smile(as the supporting character named Maria), in the ensemble of Spring Awakening, The World Goes ‘Round, and is going to be in the ensemble of The Mystery of Edwin Drood next semester.  This past fall, Vanessa was a part of a workshop for a musical in development at Encores! New York City Center which was directed by Sammi Cannold and sang backup for Shoba Narayan’s cabaret called, Places, at Green Room 42. Vanessa is now in her senior year at MSM and is confident that once she graduates, this program will have fully prepared her to get out there and begin her auditions for professional storytelling!