Interview: Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp)

Anyone that knows me is aware of the fact that Sleepaway Camp is hands down my favorite movie of all time. I was in 7th grade the first time I saw it and instantly loved it. I have seen it more times that I can count since then and I think it gets better every time I watch it. My wife and I watched it (as well as the sequels) on our first date, I have the movie poster proudly displayed in our living room, and I once had a virtual pet named Angela Baker. Needless to say, I love Sleepaway Camp so I was beyond excited when I finally got the chance to meet Felissa Rose (who played Angela) and Jonathan Tiersten (who played Ricky) at a local horror film convention. They are both awesome, great people and I was so happy I got the opportunity to met them (I was a total fanboy). I recently had the chance to interview Felissa (which was an awesome experience) for Horrornews.net, and for your viewing pleasure I present to you that interview:

Todd Martin: So how did you land the role of Angela? Had you done any acting before you got the part?

Felissa Rose: I had not done any “real” acting but I wanted to, so I got a NY manager and SC was my first audition!! I got along really well with Robert (the director/writer of Sleepaway Camp) and knew this was my role! Hee!

TM: What are some of the things you remember most about working on the movie? Was it a fun set to be on?

FR: OMG! It was a blast! I was so close with Judy(Karen) and Meg (Kathy)! I’m great friends with Jonny and John and Robert. I just remember a lot of parties that I couldn’t attend (laughs).

TM: What did the kids at your school think about you being in the movie and playing a character like Angela? I’m sure that most of them were pretty jealous, so did they give you any sh*t for playing the part or did they think that it was cool?

FR: The girls were kind of mean so the “tough” girls protected me until the movie came out…then everyone was afraid of me! lol

TM: Out of everyone on the set who do you think you think you had the closest relationship with? Obviously you and Jonathan formed a pretty strong bond, but was there anyone else that you really connected with while the filming was taking place?

FR: John Dunn who played Kenny is my best friend to this day. We never lost touch and we were really tight on the set. I was always like his little sister. I adore him and I’m so lucky he’s in my life.

TM: What did you family say when they found out that you were playing the part of a young girl who has a certain male appendage? Were they freaked out when they found out? Hell, where you freaked out when they told you the big twist at the end and realized that the character you were playing had an let’s say, odd secret?

FR: (laughs) It was such a fun script and Robert was such a cool guy that we really trusted he’d make something intense. I liked that it was so different and my family was very supportive. It never seemed odd. I must be really strange! Lol

TM: We all know that you reprised the role in “Return to Sleepaway Camp,” but Pam Springsteen played Angela in parts 2 and 3. Do you ever regret not doing the second and third movies?

FR: No, I think it worked out perfectly. She’s so great in 2 and 3. I just want to meet her!!

TM: I loved Return to Sleepaway Camp. Is there any truth to the rumor that there is another Sleepaway Camp movie in the works, and are you going to be a part of it if so?

FR: We’re talking about it so I’m sure I’ll post something as soon as money is raised ;)

TM: Tell us about some of your other projects that you’ve worked on. I know that you and Jonathan worked together recently on “The Perfect House.” Anything to look for in the near future that you’ve been a part of?

FR: I did Silent Night, Zombie Night for Sean Cain (love him) and Poe for Francis Xavier, who has written a sequel! I’m producing some stuff right now so my plate is full and I hope to act in them as well.

TM: So tell us a little bit about yourself. What are some of your hobbies? What music and movies are you into? What do you like to do for fun?

FR: I love being with my family! Going to the movies is my date night with the hubby about twice a week. Horror, Comedy and anything smart (which is limited). I’m kind of a workaholic so my time is spent getting TV and films done and then down time is usually at home playing tickle monster!

TM: What are some of your favorite horror films? Was there ever a horror film that scared the hell out of you?

FR: The Shining scared me and Magic! I love TCM and most Scorsese flicks. I’m generally up for anything but I do love my horror!

TM: Have you had any strange encounters with fans? If so tell us about your weirdest experience.

FR: No! It’s usually just a lovefest where we hang and tell good stories about SC or other cool horror movies. Nothing weird.

TM: Looking back years ago, did you ever think that Sleepaway Camp and Angela would have the massive fan following that they both have now?

FR: Not at all! I am sooooo happy this has all happened! So incredibly amazing:) Very grateful!

TM: Any advice for anyone out there wanting to break into the horror industry?

FR: Just really follow your passion and try to talk to as many people in the industry as you can.

TM: Finally, who would win a fight between Angela, Jason, Freddy, Victor Crowley (from the Hatchet movies), and Michael Myers?

FR: Ha! Who do you think??? Angela!!! She’s smarter than all these guys and would think up something totally fierce to get rid of them;)

I want to thank Felissa for taking the time to speak to me, and believe me folks when I say that you won’t meet a nicer, sweeter, more down to earth person than her. It was an absolute honor to meet her (I know she probably got tired of me hugging her!) and I think that she without a doubt totally and completely rules.

Interview: Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp)