Nerissa "[Portia's] waiting-Gentlewoman" Nerissa is Portia's main and friend. She is courted by Gratiano and later, poses as 'Balthazar's' (Portia's) clerk. Alex Kelly has appeared in numerous stage, film, and television productions, including the 2001 teleplay The Mayor of Casterbridge. She sings, does impersonations, and paints.