Born in France and raised as a US military brat, Kelly became a citizen of the world early in life. Originally planning to be the next Janis Joplin, she began studying acting to better interpret songs and she's never looked back. Kelly studied at the London Academy of Dramatic Arts; Upright Citizens Brigade; directly with Stella Adler, Kristin Linklater, Bob Krakower, and James Calleri.

Upon moving to New York City in 1981, she expanded her work from stages across Manhattan’s downtown theatre scene to late, late, late night Improv ventures, (accumulating many flea bites along the way.) Over the years, Kelly has performed in notable venues, such as the Village Gate, Theater Row and City Center. In 1990, she began working in the low-paying but highly gratifying world of independent films, honing her craft with prestigious NYU and Columbia University MFA film students.

Still a passionate student at heart, Kelly continues her journey as an artist, an animal lover (ask her about Chick, her adorable 3-legged Pitbull) and a human being. She currently holds the world record for most DuoLingo courses taken with absolutely no proficiency accumulated in any language (although she has managed to learn a few swear words in French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch and Portuguese.) 

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