IN CONVERSATION WITH
DARA RENEE
interview by JANA LETONJA
Actress Dara Renee is starring in Disney+’s 'Descendants: The Rise of Red', which released on 12th July. Most recently, Dara starred on 'High School Musical: The Musical The Series', and we've also been able to see her guest starring on 'Grey's Anatomy' and 'Black-ish' amongst other roles.
Dara, we're able to watch you in Disney's film 'Descendants: The Rise of Red'. Tell us how exciting was getting cast on this project, and getting to work alongside Brandy and Rita Ora?
It was an absolute dream come true. Not only was I able to be an iconic Disney Villain, but I got to be a part of a franchise that I watched as a kid. I'm still on cloud 9 times infinity. Being able to work with stars like Brandy, Rita and China was mind blowing. They exceeded my expectations not only with their talent, but with their kindness as well.
How would you sum up the film and the story of your character, Ulyana?
Uliana is the villain of Merlin Academy. She has a crew that is full of power and the thirst of revenge. I personally think she's a bit misunderstood in a lot of ways. I mean, being the little sister of someone as bold as Ursula has to come with its struggles of overwhelming competition. You can expect Uliana to blow everyone's mind with her spells and ferocious tentacles.
Looking back on filming, what is your favorite memory from the set?
My favorite memory would have to be hanging out with the cast. We all became such a family on set. I got so lucky being able to work with such talented, extraordinary people inside and out.
Before this project, fans were able to watch you in Disney+'s 'High School Musical: The Musical The Series'. What did you enjoy the most about this role and this project as a whole?
My favorite part of filming was the cast. HSMTMTS is very special to me. My cast was truly one of a kind and I love them all so very much. It was the first ‘big thing’ of so many of us. We grew as a family and got so close throughout the years, from birthday celebrations to graduations. They will always hold a special place in my heart.
Which of the roles you've gotten to work on so far has had the biggest impact on your career?
Definitely Kourtney from HSMTMTS and Uliana from ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’. So many wonderful theatre students still come up to me saying how much the show inspired them. And I literally have my own Barbie Doll for Uliana, which I still can’t believe. I'm so grateful for these opportunities and I thank God every day that little old me is able to be a representation in these spaces.
Besides acting, one of your passions is also writing and producing music. Your song 'Here I Come' was even featured on 'HSMTMTS'. How did this passion of yours develop?
Luckily I was blessed to come from a family of artists. They had me harmonizing before I could do math. My family showed me a deeper love through music and I will forever be thankful for it. It has become so much more than an outlet for me. It has become my lifeline.
When working on new music, what feelings does this evoke in you?
The feeling of freedom mixed with passion. If you play me the right song, I'll get chills every time. Music is more than a vibe, it is an emotional experience.
You have also become the Global Ambassador for Pantene last fall. Why does this ambassadorship specifically mean so much to you?
Hair is a big thing for me. I believe my hair is my antennae to the Universe, so I'm very particular. I've been using Pantene Gold Series since I was a little girl, so when they asked me to be an Ambassador I couldn't say yes fast enough. They taught me so much more about hair by taking me to the labs and showing me the nutrients that each unique hair texture needs. I love Pantene and I love being their ambassador.
When you have some free time, how do you most enjoy spending it?
I love writing music. It's a way I express myself and get through the day. I'll light some incense and wait for the sun to set or rise so it's a perfectly golden hour and I just write down whenever I feel no matter the emotion.
After 'Descendants: The Rise of Red', what is coming up next for you, both in film and TV, as well as in music?
I've mostly been working on music, so I'm really excited for people to hear what I've been working on. And theatrically, well you’re just going to have to wait and see.
TEAM CREDITS:
photography DISNEY / RAMONA ROSALES