McKenna's formative years were marked by a unique fusion of cultural influences, beginning in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., where she took her first breath, only to subsequently relocate to Mexico City, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and intricate customs.
As McKenna navigated the transformative landscape of adolescence, she embarked upon a pivotal decision, one that would irrevocably alter the trajectory of her life: relocating to the renowned city of Nashville, Tennessee. It was here, amidst the city's eclectic tapestry of artistic expression and cultural diversity, that she enrolled in high school and embarked upon a profound journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration.
As she settled into her new surroundings, McKenna's innate passion for the performing arts began to slowly unfurl, much like a delicate flower tenderly awakening from a state of dormancy. Her creative energy, once a nascent spark, now burst forth in a kaleidoscope of color and sound, as she immersed herself in the rich cultural heritage and artistic bounty of her new home.
The city's vibrant music scene, with its unique blend of country, rock, and Americana, served as the perfect catalyst for McKenna's artistic growth, as she found herself drawn to the infectious rhythms and soulful melodies that seemed to seep from every corner of the city. It was here, surrounded by the creative energy of her new community, that she began to hone her craft, her passion for the performing arts gradually blossoming into a full-fledged talent that would soon set her apart from her peers.
As the months passed, McKenna's artistic expression continued to evolve, her unique voice and perspective emerging as a beacon of creativity in the midst of Nashville's thriving music scene. It was clear that this young artist was destined for greatness, her talent and passion for the performing arts burning bright like a beacon in the night, guiding her toward a future filled with promise and possibility.
McKenna, driven by an insatiable sense of adventure and a deep-seated desire for personal growth, made the bold decision to depart from the comfort and familiarity of her known environment. This monumental move marked the beginning of a transformative journey, as she embarked upon a path of self-discovery and artistic exploration. The year 2016 proved to be a pivotal moment in her life, as she set her sights on the vibrant city of New York, a hub of creativity and inspiration that would provide the perfect backdrop for her artistic pursuits. McKenna's ultimate goal was to enroll in the esteemed Fordham University at Lincoln Center, a revered institution nestled in the very heart of Manhattan. This prestigious university, renowned for its academic excellence and rich cultural heritage, would offer her the ideal environment in which to pursue a degree in theater, allowing her to hone her craft and unlock her full potential as a performer.
It was in 2019 that her Off-Broadway debut occurred, marking a significant turning point in her professional trajectory. She took to the stage in the Mint Theatre Company's production of The Mountains Look Different, a performance that received widespread critical acclaim and was distinguished as a New York Times Critic's Pick. This recognition served as a testament to her exceptional talent and artistry, solidifying her position as a rising star in the world of theater.
McKenna's remarkable aptitude and striking exhibition of expertise in her debut Off-Broadway performance led to her being handpicked for her second Off-Broadway production, where she had the singular honor of originating the crucial role of Felicia in William Mastrosimone's freshly penned play, Rules of Desire, in the year 2020.
McKenna's career in the world of theater experienced a significant milestone in the year 2022, as she was entrusted with the crucial role of Ann Lovett in the inaugural staging of Ciara Ni Chuirc's thought-provoking masterpiece, Made By God, at the prestigious Irish Repertory Theater.
McKenna's impressive acting abilities are currently on full display as she breathes life into the captivating character of Grace in the widely popular Paramount+ series Tulsa King, a testament to her unshakeable dedication to her craft and her remarkable aptitude for effortlessly shifting between a wide range of roles and genres, thereby exemplifying her remarkable versatility and adaptability as an actress.
