Wanda O'Connell (born Patricia O'Connell) grew up in the Boston area, the middle of five children. She credits her discipline to her father's side of the family (Irish) and her sense of humor to her Mom's Milwaukee (Polish) side.

After obtaining a teacher's degree from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Massachusetts, Wanda's adventuresome spirit began to emerge. She taught English, learned Spanish, and traveled in Spain and South America, as well as lived in New Mexico for a number of years (including a memorable semester of student teaching on the Santa Clara Pueblo in northern New Mexico).

It wasn't until she was in her 30s that this yearning for discovery and expansion led her to acting. Her first time on stage was in the summer of 1987 as a chorus member in the Waltham Reagle Players' production of "Anything Goes" and "Carousel". The joy and vitality she experienced on stage signaled the beginning of a new life.

After studying acting at Northeastern University, taking workshops with Michael Shurtleff, and acting in plays, Wanda moved to New York City in 1996 where she worked on stage and in film until 2018. Paris is now Wanda's home, where she teaches English to children, continues her acting in 'Zooming Parts' play readings, and pursues her love of drawing and all things French.

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Wanda O'Connell

Actress