When your father is a celebrated jazz musician and names you Melody, it’s almost fated that you’ll grow up to be passionate about the performing arts. It’s no surprise that Melody Ellison blended her love of the arts with her commitment to community in both her professional and volunteer work.
“For nearly three decades, Melody has been an integral part of the Santa Barbara arts community and has served on The Granada’s Legends Gala Committee for the past eight years,” said Palmer Jackson Jr., Chairman of The Granada and The Granada’s Board of Directors. “With her background and commitment to improving the theater and our community, we were thrilled to invite her to join The Granada Board.”
A Passion for the Arts
Ellison grew up in San Francisco, immersed in dance, theater, music, and creative writing. In 1997, she moved to Santa Barbara to study Still and Motion Picture at the Brooks Institute of Photography, and quickly fell in love with the city’s natural beauty, warmth, and commitment to the arts.
“This is a town where people are generous, passionate, and committed to the greater good,” said Ellison. “I knew immediately that this was the place to build my life, raise my family, and invest my energy in supporting the arts and the community that has given me so much.”
Building on her lifelong passion for the arts and the deep connection she found in Santa Barbara, Ellison has become an active part of the city’s arts and education communities. She has contributed her time and expertise to organizations such as Opera Santa Barbara, Cate School, and The Granada Theatre’s Legends Gala, as well as a range of youth and cultural programs. Her continued leadership with The Granada includes co-chairing the 2026 Legends Gala alongside Susan Jackson. Most recently, she launched The Halo Group, a Santa Barbara–based public relations and event firm specializing in mission-driven organizations. Through her agency, she develops and leads high-impact experiences and fundraising initiatives for nonprofits, foundations, and socially conscious organizations that foster connection, inspire engagement, and strengthen community impact.
Introduction to The Granada
Ellison fell in love with The Granada’s beauty, historic grandeur, and the performances shortly after moving to Santa Barbara in 1997. Over the years, the theater became a constant in her life – a place she attended often and shared with her family. In 2017, she finally had the opportunity to work with the theater on its Legends Gala Committee.
“Serving on the Legends Gala Committee really deepened my appreciation for The Granada and its incredible role in sustaining live performance,” she said. “The Gala celebrates the artists, philanthropists, and resident companies who bring the stage to life, and being part of a committee that highlights and honors their achievements has been truly inspiring.”
Inspired by her work on the Legends Gala Committee, Ellison jumped at the chance to join The Granada Board of Directors.
Board Impact
“My goal is to build on the amazing work already happening at the Granada, strengthening connections with its patrons,” said Ellison. “I also want to enhance donor experiences, helping supporters see the real impact of their generosity. Ultimately, I want to help ensure The Granada continues to inspire, educate, and bring people together for generations to come.”
Ellison’s commitment aligns perfectly with The Granada’s mission as it continues to diversify its audience and introduce new people to the joy of live performances.
“Santa Barbara has given me so much—a place to grow creatively, a community that values the arts, and a city that inspires connection,” said Ellison. “I’m deeply committed to giving back and helping ensure the magic of the arts thrives here.”