Malyssa Quiles

woman with long brown hair in a pink shirt

​B.A. in Theatre and Dance (with emphasis in Performer's Process)

What inspires you?

So many things inspire me: my family, my friends, everything around me. However, I've found that what inspires me most is a smile. I love to make people smile. It's what I live for. My number one goal is to help people have ag ood day, and if they're having a good day, I want to be able to make it a greta one. Seeing someone smile because of something I did is the only way I know if I'm achieving that goal.

Tell us about a favorite experience in class, on stage or behind the scenes at UT.

I think my favorite experience was the whole of my two theatre classes my first semester here: Languages of the Stage and Acting I. Even though I'd done theatre in high school, it wasn't something I got to explore very much. I learned a lot in those classes, and it didn't just have to do with theatre. I learned about myself, as well as my peers. Everyday we were challenged to think outside the box and be ready to try new things. These were my first theatre classes ever, and they really broadened my perceptions about what acting and theatre could be.

What do you love most about being part of the UT Theatre and Dance family?

Everybody is so close. we're always building each other up and helping one another whenever we can. There will always be a shoulder to lean on, laugh on and even cry on. Friends are never scarce. The Theatre and Dance family is just that: a family. I'd never been a part of something quite like it before coming to UT.

About Malyssa

I'm from a small town in South Texas called Cotulla and have been involved in theatre since I was a junior in high school. Since coming here, I've been lucky enough to have been involved in a few shows, including UT's collaboration with ZACH and Underbelly for their production of Alice in Wonderland. I've developed an interest in media and sound, so I may be doing something with that in the near future as well.

Fun fact: I have a twin sister also coming to UT, so if you think you see me, there's a chance it could be here. Don't be afraid to stop and say hi though, the both of us are always up for conversation.