Mary Jo Salerno, a native of Chicago, Illinois, earned her Bachelor of Music Degree from Drake University, where she showcased her talents in various productions. During her time at Drake, she appeared in Stephen Sondheim's A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, the contemporary one-act play THE DRESS by Mark Bucci, and numerous opera scenes. Her notable roles included Adele in DIE FLEDERMAUS, Adina in ELIXIR OF LOVE, and Constanza in THE ABDUCTION FROM SERAGLIO.
In addition to her collegiate endeavors, Salerno also had a presence in community theatre. She took on the role of Yum-Yum in THE MIKADO with the Summer Operetta Workshop of Des Moines and Jenny in COMPANY with the Village Players of Libertyville. Her vocal training included studies with Eileen Deneen at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago and Oren Brown in New York.
Salerno's professional debut and New York debut came in the form of SNOW WHITE LIVE! (1980) at Radio City Music Hall. After a nationwide search, she was selected to play the title role of Snow White from over 600 auditioning girls.
