Catrina Sally (MCCN): Let’s start at the beginning! When and where did your interest in screenwriting begin? How did you cultivate your interest? We KNOW you attended a WONDERFUL university.

Spicer-Dannelly: I started very early in my years loving entertainment.  I used to be in neighborhood plays and then went on to the "Fame" school, Performing Arts High (now LaGuardia School of the Arts) in New York.  I was interested in becoming an actress but then thought directing was something I really wanted to try so I enrolled in the telecommunications department at Morgan State University.  When I found broadcast directing to be too technique and not very art oriented, I thought maybe this isn't for me.  Then, by the grace of God, a flyer from the Warner Bros. Writing Program at Morgan came floating to my feet-- this is the honest truth-- bells went off in my head.  I immediately jumped in the classes and I was hooked.  Equipped with the basic knowledge of television writing and general idea of how "Hollywood" worked I set out for Los Angeles six months after graduation.  I haven't looked back since.

Catrina: In your own words describe the birth of the Wannabees. How did the show come to be?

Spicer-Dannelly: The birth of "The Wannabes" came sheerly from proactivity.  I didn't and still don't have an agent so I have to move forward.  So during that time in my career, "The Proud Family"was coming to an end and "Jump In!" was just about to air, I figured it was time to get moving on something new.  I had a feeling that musical projects, i.e. "Glee" & "High School Musical" were going to be the next hot ticket.  So I thought to find a musical group that I can base a show around and low and behold I found the multicultural pop group, Savvy at the NATPE Convention in Las Vegas.  The show idea went on to be produce 26 episodes and sold internationally first to over 92 countries before getting picked up on Starz Kids & Family in the US. The show was independently produced by wonderfully and generous private investor mostly out of Texas.

Catrina: Here at the MCCN we value multiculturalism and diversity. The Wannabes are definitely a diverse group. Is diversity something you strive for in your screenwriting?

Spicer-Dannelly: Yes, most definitely.  I am a product of an African American father and Puerto Rican mother and grew up in Brooklyn and Queens, New York.  My WORLD is diverse and that's pretty much all I can draw from.  Besides that, I am very proud of producing diverse projects especially at a time when Hollywood keeps promising for more diversity when things mostly stay the status quo.

Catrina: What do you hope young people gain from watching your programming?

Spicer-Dannelly: When young folks and even adults watch my show(s), I hope they take away that no dream is too big, too wild, too impossible to achieve and that it's going to take hard work but it can and will happen.  Everyone will face obstacles, it's how bad you want the dream come true that will show their true talent and honestly what they are made of.  Are you weak, strong, an achiever or a quitter?  Following a dream takes courage.  You either have it or you don't. I truly hope they would be inspired.                                      

Catrina: Besides your current project, what other projects have you been associated with?

Spicer-Dannelly: I have been working on another teen show, "That's What's Up!" which will be for the 18-24 demographic. I am also creating a sitcom for the adult viewer called, "Silver Foxes".  If you know of any under writing sponsors who might be interested, please send them my way! Lol!  I am going the independent route again. I can't wait on Hollywood anymore.

Catrina: From where do you draw your inspiration for writing? What has been your biggest inspiration?

Spicer-Dannelly: I draw my inspiration from my childhood for my tween & teen shows.  Despite things going on at home during my youthful days, I found myself loving being young and having fun at any chance I got.  I also seemed to find the humor in everything that went on around me.  I think that's a Spicer family gift.  My entire family is full of the best and funniest storytellers I know.

Catrina: We know there are few female writers in Hollywood, but they are growing in numbers. What has been your experience as a female writer?

Spicer-Dannelly: Now this is a question that puts a knot in my throat.  Being female in this business has not been easy. Being African American, Latina, a woman and a fair-skinned one at that has proven to be elements of alchemy in my career.  Discrimination, prejudgement, and sexual harassment are just a few words that have been a part of my experience.  However, all my attributes along with the adversities made me believe more in myself than ever.  I am stronger, more fearless, and I have a better and fuller understanding of how God works in my life.  I mostly asked God to protect my mind and my health and I will see through the passions on my heart and glorify his name when it's all said and done.

Catrina: What advice can you give to other aspiring screenwriters?

Spicer-Dannelly: There is so much advise to give aspiring writers but I will say this... *Follow the desires of your heart with full--FULL BELIEF that you have what it takes to make them come to fruition. Keep your best ideas close to your chest and be very proactive about your career. *Don't be afraid to fail.  *You can't have everything at once-- slow and steady is the best way to have a sustaining career.  *This business isn't for the feeble so stay home if you aren't serious about it. *Persevere through all adversity.  *Importantly, before you begin your journey, ask God to show you the way then... LISTEN.  *If you don't believe in GOD, stay home until you do because you're going to need him.

Catrina: As a food blog, we have to ask you about food! What is your favorite dish and why?

Spicer-Dannelly: My favorite dish is PIZZA!  It brings me back to my childhood with every slice.  It's got to be NY, dirty oven, pizza though. Not that domino's/pizza hut stuff.  Another favorite is mi abuela's arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) con habichuelas (with beans).  Only grandma's is simply the best.

Catrina: Any other information you would like to share?

Spicer-Dannelly: Watch "The Wannabes" starring Savvy on Starz Kidz & Family or on Netflix.  Savvy is now Cash Money Records (Lil Wayne, Nikki Minaj, Drake) recording artists.  Thank you for caring and sharing my story. With the grace of God, more good things will come out of my career and entertain and inspire many.