Merle on Broadway
2008-2009 Spamalot
Merle starred as "The Lady of the Lake" in the hilarious romp lovingly ripped off from "Monty Python's Search for the Holy Grail".
2005 – 2007 Tarzan
Merle originated the role of Kala. Months of yoga, capoeira, flight training, movement training and working along side Oscar and Grammy winning artist, Phil Collins, proved to be a tremendous and life-changing experience. She can be heard on the cast album singing "You'll Be in my Heart" and other original music.
2002-2005, 2007-2008 RENT
RENT had been a Broadway "home" to Merle for many years. Its message of love is timeless and continues to touch all generations.
2001 – 2002 AIDA
Merle opened the First National Tour of Aida as Nehebka and the Aida Standby. She quickly moved up the ranks to performing the title role on Broadway in 2002. This began her work with and love of her Disney Family.
2000 – 2001 Jesus Christ Super Star
Merle's Broadway debut. Under the inspirational direction of Gale Edwards, she first stepped foot on the Broadway stage as a Soul Girl and Mary Magdalene understudy. Then, onto the Radio City stage for the first time to perform for the Tonys.
Merle on Stage
By The Way, Meet Vera Stark (Geffen Playhouse 2012)
Penned by the incomparable Lynn Nottage, Merle played Anna Mae (a black actress in the 20's passing as Brazilian) in the first act and Afua Assata Ejobo (a lesbian, activist, beat poet in the 90's) in the second act.
Hugh Jackman in Peformance (San Francisco, Toronto 2011)
In his pre-Broadway tour, Merle was featured in this extraordinary evening with Hugh.
The Last Goodbye (Williamstown Theatre Festival 2010)
In this modern take on Romeo and Juliet set to Jeff Buckley music, Merle played the conflicted Lady Capulet.
RENT (Broadway National Tour 2010)
Merle was very happy to find a few months free to tour with her New York Broadway costars including original cast members Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp.
Atlanta (Geffen Playhouse 2007)
The beautiful story of one of the last great Civil War battles penned by Grammy winner Marcus Hummon and Heroes star Adrian Pasdar.
Most Wanted (LaJolla Playhouse 2007)
In this story based on Andrew Cunanan, the Versace killer, Merle played Elizabeth Mitchell a reporter who became the killer's confidante fearing she'd "Crossed the Line" getting the story of a lifetime.
Showtune (Pasadena Playhouse 2002)
Jerry Herman himself oversaw this rollicking review of his best tunes in which Merle was featured.
Aida (First National Tour 2001-2002)
Merle understudied Aida and played the role of Nehebka in this First National Tour, before she left to play the title role on Broadway.
Ain't Misbehavin' (European Tour 1999)
Merle played the role originated by Charlain Woodard.
Smokey Joe's Cafe (U.S. Tour 1998-1999)
Merle was a swing covering most of the female roles.
The Kentucky Cycle (Pegasus Players 1996)
The mid-west premiere of a great American Legacy spanning several centuries.
Passion (Pegasus Players 1996)
In this mid-west premiere, Merle played the small, but impactful role of the Mistress.
As You Like It (O'Malley Theatre 1996)
Playing Rosalind was the beginning of her love affair with Shakespeare.
Merle on Television
Nikita, Episode 3.15
Zoe, an assassin and one of the original 30, who thwarts Nikita's operation.
Sons of Anarchy, Recurring
Rita Roosevelt, wife of Sheriff Eli Roosevelt.
The Newsroom Episode 1.5 "Amen"
Maria Guerrero, co-host of the morning show.
Criminal Minds Episode 7.16 "A Family Affair"
Agent Lynn Brooks assists the team.
Ringer Episode #1.9 "Shut Up and Eat Your Bologna"
Dr. Anabel Morris, Shioban's therapist, whom Bridgette tries to get information from.
Love Bites Episode #1.3 "How to..."
Krista.
Lie to Me Episode #3.11 "Saved"
DA Jill Ottinger.
CSI: Miami Episode #9.5 "Sleepless in Miami"
Widow Stacy Garrett is under investigation for her husband's murder.
24 Day 8: 12:00 am-1:00 am
Kristin Smith from the Justice Department shows up to interrogate Renee.
The Deep End Episode #1.5 "An Innocent Man"
ADA Jennifer Hutchins.
Matadors, Pilot Episode
In this modern day take on Romeo and Juliet, Merle plays Brook Comas, investigator for one of the dueling litigating family teams.
I'm Paige Wilson, Pilot Episode
Gloria, the firey, hard-nosed office manager to Congressman Foxworthy by day and party girl by night.
Guiding Light
Merle was seen as a hard edged lawyer facilitating family drama.
All My Children, Recurring Episodes
Lois, a fellow inmate, bent on taunting Krystal.
Pros and Cons, Pilot Episode
Chloe, a con-man's wife, who holds down their legit business at a local diner.
The Edge, Pilot Episode
Merle played the role of FBI Boss, Angela Wells.
Third Watch, Episode 6.18 "Too Little, Too Late"
Nikki, a prostitute, working covertly out of a hotdog stand.
NCIS, Episode 1.3 "Seadog"
Secret Service Agent Marcy Carruthers, college roommate of Caitlin.
Angel, Episode 4.22 "Home"
Lacy Shepard, an associate at Wolfram & Hart, meant to seduce Gunn into joining the firm.
