Last week, I had the wonderful privilege of conducting my very first phone interview with a rising celebrity. I would like for you to meet Ysa Penarejo, A.K.A., Toulane from the recent American Girl Movie “Shoot for the Stars.” My 9 year old daughter was allowed to listen in on the interview through speaker phone and even ask Ysa a few questions of her own. She was beyond delighted at this opportunity!
Lindsey: Good afternoon Ysa, my name is Lindsey Clair. I am a Media Writer for Detroit Mommies. Thank you for taking time out in your day to speak with me today.
Ysa: Thank you for having me, I am so glad to be here.
Lindsey: How old are you and where are you from?
Ysa: I am 12 years old and I am from San Diego.
Lindsey: Prior to the American Girl movie, were you a fan of the dolls?
Ysa: I love the American Girl dolls and I actually have 4 of them.
Lindsey: What were you doing the day you found out you got the part of playing Toulane in the American Girl movie?
Ysa: I was actually at my elementary graduation hanging with my mom. She got a call telling me I got the part. I just couldn’t believe it. I was screaming and just so excited. I kept asking myself “am I dreaming?’
Lindsey: What was it like working alongside Ian Zeiring and Nia Vardalos?
Ysa: Oh my goodness, it was so much fun. Ian is so funny. Just watching them was amazing.
Lindsey: Do you stay in touch with all of your American Girl co-stars?
Ysa: Yes. When we all happen to be in L.A we hang out at restauraunts and talk.
Lindsey: What important lesson did you learn while shooting the movie that you can pass on to tween girls?
Ysa: Being honest to your family and friends is the most important thing. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Lindsey: Ysa, my 9 year old daughter Kelly, would like to ask you a few questions as well.
Ysa: Yay, I am so excited.
Kelly: Hi Ysa, I am so excited to meet you.
Ysa: Kelly, I am so thrilled you are talking with me today, how fun.
Kelly: Are you really friends with Jade PettyJohn (McKenna)?
Ysa: Yes, I love her! She is a great friend. I really miss her.
Kelly: Do you really do gymnastics?
Ysa: No, I mainly dance.
Kelly: Do you like dance?
Ysa: I love dance! It’s my favorite.
Kelly: Do you like to sing?
Ysa: Yes, I love to sing.
Kelly: Thank you for letting me ask you questions today. I get to start gymnastics next week.
Ysa: Oh how exciting! Nice meeting you Kelly. It was so much fun.
**A lot of cute small talk went on in between them both. My daughter was on Cloud 9 the rest of the day. Ysa left her a sweet message on Facebook.
Lindsey: Thanks so much Ysa for chatting with my daughter, you have made her day! I can tell you are one busy young lady. Tell me about your very first pop single just recently released titled: “Like Not Love.”
Ysa: Yes, it’s mainly about tween relationships and making choices.
Lindsey: What final thoughts would you like to share with us today?
Ysa: Thanks so much for talking with me and supporting my acting.
Ysa is a very talented and sweet young lady! I look forward to seeing what she does next in her acting and singing career in the days ahead. Thanks again for sharing with Detroit Mommies Ysa, it was so wonderful meeting you.
Image by Mike Rozman
