Meet Rebecca Hustedde: Playing Kate

Rebecca Hustedde 

Can you briefly describe your journey to SDSU?

I transferred to SDSU as a junior last fall, so this is my second and final year here. I was exploring different theatre programs throughout California and after the Explore SDSU event in spring 2014, I knew this was the place I wanted to be at.

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

The list is huge, because there are so many talented actors that I respect and admire. Some of my favorites though are Jonny Depp, Lena Headey, and Julianne Moore. Channeling other actors when I perform isn't something that I do, but I thoroughly enjoy watching the performances of these actors.

Do you have a pet? If so, how did you get it and what do you like most about it?

I have several pets, actually! There are four doggies at home that I love so, so much. There are two German Shepherds, Hanna and Andel, and two little Yorkies, Tiki and Leila. All of them have their own, unique personality, but they are unfailingly loving. They live in my hometown with my family, so I only get to see them when I visit. I miss them everyday, but they get so excited when I come home! Especially my little Tiki. My boyfriend even got me a t-shirt with her picture on it for my birthday! I love my pups so much!

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

I think that everything you need to know about your character is in your script somewhere. The playwright puts all of the important information in there. After I've thoroughly studied the script and gleaned all of information that the playwright wants me to know, anything I create for my character is for my own, personal understanding of her. The audience will never know all of things that I've thought of for my character that aren't included in the script, but that's what makes my interpretation of her different from another actor's.

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

I loved playing Gayle in Almost, Maine by John Carani. I think Kate would find her naïve and endearing if ever they were to meet and would admire Gayle's tenacity and fearlessness in committing to getting what she wants.

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

The Bronx. Bronx was the name of the dog-like gargoyle in the Disney Channel series Gargoyles and he was my favorite.

What are some unique challenges of your character?

Well I think dealing with a significant other who is completely consumed by and obsessed with something outside of their relationship is something that some people may be able to identify with. However, I'm not sure if anyone has ever had their significant other fixated on Greg's particular distraction. Well, maybe Edward Albee knows something about the subject.

What is Sylvia about, to you?

Sylvia is the discovery that even when you truly want what is best for someone, you may not actually know what that "best" is (even if you think you do!). It's important to think outside of your own idea of "best" and consider the unexpected. Life can be pleasantly surprising if you are willing to move forward blindfolded for a little while.