Student Spotlight: Kynkade McLachlan
My name is Kynkade McLachlan, and I am a freshman at Marquette. I am a theater arts major and am originally from Austin, Texas. I have been involved in theater since I was 5 years old, along with my older sister. I lived in California from 2007–2016 and wanted to try a shot at film and television at 11 years old. I auditioned for many things, such as “The Conjuring 2” and “Austin and Ally,” along with the TV show adaptation of “School of Rock.” Even now, I’m still auditioning for certain roles and have done multiple projects with film students at the University of Texas.
Last summer, I was offered a role in an Amazon Prime feature film and couldn’t turn it down! I was hesitant about being a student and balancing work and studying, but fortunately, my professors are extremely understanding and excited too! I can’t say much about the project because we haven’t started the process yet, but my sister and I are both leads in it. I’m excited to be in front of a camera again and continue my passion for film. I also would love to be a part of short films here at Marquette too, so if there are any offers, I would totally be stoked!
In the future, I see myself working hard on a set. I know that people are hesitant when it comes to actors and their chances of success, but there is something about acting and film that is so special to me that I have to do it. It’s incredible being a part of Marquette Theater as well. I’ve learned so much in just a semester, and I can’t wait to learn so much more. The productions are downright amazing, and I’m floored by the amount of talent I see every day. I can’t wait for everyone else to see the upcoming shows! When I visited Marquette for a scholarship day back in February 2022, I met a few of the existing students in theater. I thought they were the coolest people ever, and I knew I had to go here (just so maybe I could be cool too haha).
My favorite Marquette memory so far is seeing my best friends every day. They live on the same floor as me, so whenever I’m bored, I’ll just step two feet and be at my friends’ door. I was nervous about meeting people at Marquette because I’m not anywhere near home, and I can’t just drive home and see my friends there. So when I met these incredible people, I was instantly relieved. I have the most amazing roommate, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without any of my friends.
Another memory that is special to me is being sound designer/operator for Marquette Theater’s “From White Plains” and “The Wolves.” This experience was something I’ll never forget. Seeing how dedicated all these people were and their kindness towards me and each other was something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. I got to put a bit of my own spin onto the music and sounds included in the shows, and it was so special to watch the shows about 100 times. I’m incredibly grateful to be here and am so pumped for what the future holds.