Melissa Panton
Partner, Agency Director
Melissa Panton (she/her) is a Partner and Agency Director for da Costa Talent Vancouver where she heads up the Film, Television, and VoiceOver division, working with a talented roster of actors and choreographers. Known for her keen eye for talent, strong instincts, and level headed approach to the work, Melissa’s clients have built impressive resumes that have met or exceeded their career aspirations.
Dedicated to the expansion of da Costa Talent since day one of her tenure,she not only nurtured the Toronto roster’s Youth Division from the ground up, but also expanded the reach of the agency to the west coast when the Vancouver office was founded in 2011. With a focus on expanding global partnerships within the entertainment industry, Melissa works with leading agencies, publicists, management companies and attorneys in the entertainment hubs around the world.
Melissa has a unique insight to the da Costa roster, having been a client of the agency herself. As a result, she keeps the client experience top of mind as she tirelessly strives to nurture and mentor talent at all levels of experience. A former professional performer herself, Melissa amassed numerous film, stage, and television credits, in addition to major league dance team management. Her management style was honed from a breadth of experience and interests, from studies in marketing, psychology, and business management, to experience in production, casting, and event management.
As a business owner and agent, and dedicated wife and mother, Melissa’s greatest accomplishments include those of her clients, and she recognizes the importance of respect, loyalty and integrity in both her business and personal relationships.
“There is nothing more gratifying than spotting raw talent in a room, and then using mentorship, guidance, and industry connections to build a career of longevity and success.”