Kelly Collins
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about

“I believe in the immortality of theatre. It is the most blessed hiding place for those who secretly put their childhood in their pockets and went off to play for the rest of their lives.” – Max Reinhardt
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Photo by my mom <3

Who is Kelly?

I've loved playing pretend for as long as I can remember, which is why that Reinhardt quote (above) is one of my favorites. My mom fondly recalls frequent afternoons when a pint-sized, 4-year-old Kelly would put on shows in the living room, standing atop an overturned Tupperware container and singing her little heart out. Now, my life is not so different from those childhood days, save for the fact that I'm lucky enough to be performing on stages that are just a bit bigger than a Tupperware.

Career

Growing up in Northwest Indiana, I thoroughly immersed myself in the Chicagoland theatre scene before moving to New York City. The art that has always resonated with me is the kind that transforms its audience–offering new insight into themselves, the human experience, or the world at large. I aim to create from that same foundation of love and intention, hoping that those who encounter my work leave with not only a different worldview, but a kinder one. As an actor, I love to tackle complex, warm, whip-smart characters who never back down from their dreams. The physical text analysis training I received from Maria Porter informs all of my work, and enables me to achieve a unique level of personalization and specificity in every performance. I hope to spend my career with other kind, ambitious, creative professionals who love telling stories (and playing pretend) as much as I do. Favorite credits include Jo March (Little Women), Alice Murphy (Bright Star), and Texas/Dance Captain (Cabaret).
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Photo by YellowBelly Photography

on repeat

some of my favorite tunes lately :)
Follow me on Spotify!
Check out my summer playlist!

books

Just Finished: Threshing Day by Rebecca Yarros
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Currently Reading: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (round two babyyy)
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MUTUAL AID
Around the world, civilians are too often caught in the middle of decisions made far above them. Behind every headline are real families, real fear, and real human lives. My heart is with the innocent people of Iran and Palestine, as well as people everywhere who are caught in the middle of government decisions and military escalation. I believe deeply in protecting civilian lives, supporting relief efforts on the ground, and remembering our shared humanity across borders. If you’re able, please consider giving directly to the reputable organizations linked below, all of whom are providing direct aid and support to people affected by displacement, war, and humanitarian emergencies.
Thank you so much for helping care for our neighbors in real, tangible ways.
ICRC
SAVE THE CHILDREN
IFRC
© 2026 by KELLY COLLINS
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