INTERVIEW: Ana Isabelle on Her Exciting Role in West Side Story, Self-Love + Representation

Ana Isabelle stuns in her role as Rosalia in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, an adaptation from the 1961 version, and stars opposite an incredible slate of talent including Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose.

The film features an enhanced story that appeals to a new generation of viewers. The filmmakers have brought a refreshing update to the story with a deeper dive into the gentrification that centers around the riffs between the two rivaling gang members; the Jetts led by Mike Faist as Riff and the Sharks, led by David Alvarez as Bernardo.

Ana is not a newcomer to the Broadway stage or film and TV screen, and she boasts an amazing recording career selling out concerts, performing on NBC, at Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and Time’s Square NYE. She has also acted opposite legends such as Taraji P Henson, Gladys Knight, and Method Man.

Isabelle is on fire, representing a triple threat Latina across numerous genres. Read on to learn more about how she got her start in the industry, her new role in West Side Story, what self-love and representation mean to her, and some of her amazing achievements, including winning Viva El Sueño with 30 million votes.

NIKKI: Where are you from, and where do you reside now? 

ANA: I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. Now I live in New York!

NIKKI: How did you get your start in acting, singing, and dancing; did you always love the crafts from a young age?

ANA: I started when I was five-years-old training in my mom’s children’s choir. She was my first voice teacher. In her choir program, I also learned to read music, how to play guitar, flute and develop the capacity to do harmonies. 

My father is also a music teacher, and he worked in “La Escuela Libre de Música de Caguas,” where I also trained since I was eight. In that school, I studied seven years of piano and violin. Since then, I’ve always been passionate about education. I was always in search for more and more. My parents always supported me and taught me the importance of taking classes and being prepared for opportunities. As I was growing up, I took nine years of ballet and jazz in Ballet Concierto de PR, salsa and hip hop in Rhythms Dance Studio, and more. My first big opportunity in the dance world was with Menudo when I was nine. Since then, I never stopped training, going to auditions, and looking for opportunities to expand my career and dreams as a singer, dancer, and actor. 

Talking about my training in acting, I went to the Department of Drama at the University of PR Rio Piedras, but I also have taken courses in Miami and in New York. I believe the training should never stop; that’s why right now, I’m finishing my second year of acting school in Terry Knickerbocker Studio, looking to reach that level of excellence in my acting craft. 

NIKKI: You’ve had several successful albums and performed at sold-out concerts; can you tell us more about your singing career highlights? 

ANA: I started when I was a teenager releasing my first album with the support of my family and an independent label. Then the highlight of my music career that helped me reach a new level was winning Viva El Sueño by the votes of more than 30 million Latinos. After that, I’ve had incredible opportunities like singing in concert with Placido Domingo, Luis Fonsi, Jose Feliciano, David Bisbal, and Gilberto Santa Rosa at Carnegie Hall. Another great moment was starring in Radio City Music Hall, leading more than 50 Latinos on stage singing the song “This Is Me”‘ for NBC Upfronts. Also, I sang on New Year’s Eve in Times Square after winning the reality show and last but not least, singing at the World Cup concert in Texas in 2010.

NIKKI: Can you tell us about Viva el Sueño and being crowned as the new Latin music rising star?

ANA: It was so amazing. I will never forget the incredible support of the Latin community. Viva el Sueño was the first big moment in my career that changed my life. 

NIKKI: What was it like making your US television debut in Seasons Of Love opposite Taraji P Henson, Gladys Knight, and Method Man.

ANA: I couldn’t believe it. My first TV opportunity in English in the US market and being surrounded by them. I learned so much from them, and I’ll be forever grateful. I always dreamed of being part of a holiday movie and doing it along with Taraji, Ms. Gladys Knight, and Method Man as my partner, it was beyond my expectations. 

NIKKI: Can you tell us about your Broadway start and career and winning Broadway Worlds Regional Award for Best Actress?

ANA: I won with Evita at Asolo Rep Theater and Anita at the Guthrie Theater. Because I came from PR, and it hasn’t been easy for me to make it here when I get a role, I go all in to become that character. For Evita, I flew myself to Argentina because I wanted to walk her path in person, feel the air and represent the Argentinians and her story in the best way possible. Being recognized felt so good cause that means my investment was worth it. Same with Anita! I always wanted to play this role, and I went all-in as well. Both productions made history in their respective theaters, with all of our shows being sold out! After putting my heart and soul into these characters, it’s the best reward to know that the audience and critics loved it. 

NIKKI: Can you tell us about your role as Rosalia in Steven Spielberg’s remake of West Side Story? 

ANA: A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Being Spielberg’s Rosalia has been a dream come true in every way. I feel that I have contributed to this film not only as an actor, singer, and dancer but also as an accent coach, as an advisor of my culture, and as a Puerto Rican. It fills my heart with joy and gratitude to be part of this film. 

NIKKI: What was the audition process like, and how did you land the role? 

ANA: It lasted seven months. It was long, exciting, and nerve-racking but completely worth it. I think the audition that helped me get the role was one of the last ones in Puerto Rico in front of the creative team. After that, I was called to audition in person with Steven, and it was surreal and magical. He was so humble and supportive during the process that all my nerves went away, and I really had fun while auditioning. It was my dream to meet him in person; I couldn’t hold back my tears. After that one, I got the call that I booked the role of Rosalia!

NIKKI: What did you enjoy most about shooting on location in NYC?

ANA: The people! Our leaders, the cast, and the crew made the experience so beautiful and unique. Shooting all around NYC was so perfect and true to the story. The production team transformed blocks and blocks into 1957 NYC blocks, and it was like entering a time machine and going back on time. Really magical and cool!!! 

NIKKI: What were some of the highlights of working with director Steven Spielberg? 

ANA: “I Feel Pretty” was one of my favorite moments. It was only us, the few ladies at Gimbels working directly with him. I was able to connect more with him, and he was so playful on set. I was definitely taking in every second to learn and absorb the best from a legend like him. 

NIKKI: What was it like working alongside such equally amazing female talent like Ariana and Rachel? 

ANA: Rachel has been my lil sis since day one. Ariana is my fellow shark lady, fierce and full of energy. I love the process of working with both of them. We all became a family! 

NIKKI: You have a pretty big number in West Side Story; what can you tease fans about it? 

ANA: You have to go see it! It’s a masterpiece!!! 

NIKKI: How did you research for the role?

ANA: Interviewed my grandmother, researched the time period, and worked closely with Tony Kushner to learn from his ideas. I also learned from his advisors that most of them were Latinos/Puerto Ricans. Also, I had a one on one session with Steven to talk about his vision for my character. We all had the support we needed to film, prepare and develop unique characters.

NIKKI: What do you love about exposing the film’s story to a whole new generation of viewers?

ANA: It’s so needed and perfect. This story can touch hearts and change lives. I really believe that. Love triumphs! 

NIKKI: What will fans take from this remake that is different from the original? 

ANA: More detailed characters and a group of authentic Latinos bringing her roots to the world! 

NIKKI: What do you hope people take away from your performance as well as your costars when it comes to female and Latina representation in film? 

ANA: That there’s a place for us! It’s our time, and we need to keep fighting for opportunities like this cause we deserve it! I hope to be an inspiration for more Latinas like me to follow their dreams. If I’m doing it, you can too!

NIKKI: Is there still work to do for representation in the industry?

ANA: Of course there is. I hope to see better characters for us. I hope there are more stories that represent us fairly and give us the opportunity to work consistently!

NIKKI: How do you incorporate self-care into your wellness routine? 

ANA: I go to the gym six days a week. Have a healthy lifestyle choosing organic food and meals that help me feel great and stay energetic. If I can, I always select plant-based food. Also, I like to take care of my skin and my soul by going to church, meditating, and praying! 

NIKKI: Glitter has a Celebrity Self-Love campaign; what does self-love mean to you as you navigate Hollywood and the entertainment industry? 

To embrace who you are and feel proud of it. Self-love is always choosing your growth and having self-respect in work and personal life. Know your boundaries and don’t be afraid of being you and claim your rights! 

NIKKI: Any advice for fans who are overwhelmed with social media at times? Do you set personal limits for yourself? 

I always try my best not to compare myself with others, and sometimes social media doesn’t help with that, but we do have control of our minds and decisions. I suggest following accounts that feed your soul growth and bring joy to your daily routines. Maybe limit your time on social media as well! But I also believe it’s healthy to know how to deal with things out of our comfort zone and use them to become stronger, resilient. For example, when we learn to celebrate the achievements of others, social media won’t affect us that much. We have control, and we conquer because you train your mind to know that was yours; nobody can take that from you! I firmly believe that! 

NIKKI: Who’s on your Spotify playlist right now?

ANA: Justin Bieber, Christian music, Luis Fonsi, Barbara Streisand, Sara Bareilles, Celine Dion, and sometimes a bit of reggaeton and salsa lol!

NIKKI: One beauty product you can’t live without? 

ANA: Mascara!!! 

NIKKI: Favorite travel destination and why?

ANA: Puerto Rico! Because I love my whole family there, our beaches, and how I feel when I’m there. 

NIKKI: What’s one genre you would like to explore in the future? 

ANA: Hmmm, always open to possibilities!

NIKKI: What can we expect next from you? 

ANA: I’m releasing my new single “Gloria” and more music to come. Also, a single with one of the jets Myles Erlick called “With the Flow,” Dec 17. 

ANA: And I’m joining the cast of FBI Most Wanted for a couple of episodes.