Meet Atessa McAleenan-Morrell: Playing Phyllis

Atessa McAleenan-Morrell

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

This is my second and last year at SDSU. I just transferred here from Diablo Valley College located in the bay area. My journey has been short but it is not over yet! My first year was tough but a good experience. I am excited to see what this New Year brings!

Who are your acting heroes? Is there anyone you find yourself channeling when you perform?

Some of my acting heroes are, Lucille Ball, Audrey Hepburn, Raven Symone, Barbara Streisand, Meryl Streep,Robin Williams, and a few more here and there. I do not channel any person or actor when I perform.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it? If not, what would your ideal pet be?

 I have two cats, a dog, some fish, and a turtle back home. My ultimate favorite animal and pet is a cat. I love them because they are cuddly, soft, and always have different personalities and a mind of their own. My dream pet is a cheetah.

How do you go about finding a new character once you have been cast?

How I go about finding a character is first and foremost, looking to the script. I gather as much information possible about my character from the script. I take note of what is said about me by other characters and what I say about myself. Then, based off all that character research, do some more research and start to build my character.

Do you have a favorite role from past shows? What would that character say about this show? Would they be friends with your character?

My favorite role of a past show would have to be playing the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wizard of Oz. She was a character I thought I would never play so getting to play her was an amazing, unique experience.  What the witch would say about this show is probably,” I hate dogs! I’d much prefer a flying monkey.” And no she would not be friends with Phyllis.

If you could live in New York, what borough would you live in?  

If I had to choose a borough to live in, it would be Manhattan because it has all the fun busy stuff to do. I like big cities.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

I’d say my most unique challenge would have to be my character being a recovering alcoholic.

What is Sylvia about, to you?

I think Sylvia is about friendship coming in all shapes and sizes and sometimes unexpected. Sometimes friendships can save your life and change it for the better.