M.D.: Sonata, it is great to have the opportunity to speak with you in between shooting. You look wonderful, and I wanted to bring up your Lithuanian roots. How would you say your appearance helps your career?
S.M.J.: I have previously worked as a photographic model - so I understand how to move in front of the camera. This experience helps me enormously when I am working with a director and am in front of the movie camera.
M.D.: You have had many successful roles! How did you become engaged in the film industry?
S.M.J.: When you are running a restaurant, you learn to be the face of the business and to network with other successful entrepreneurs. I also have acquaintances in the film and music industries - when I told them of my desire to act, they introduced to this amazing new opportunity.
M.D.: You have said that the biggest deals are still to come. What do you have in mind? What film premieres should we expect soon?
S.M.J.: Well ... I can’t give away inside secrets until the deals are signed - but you will be the first to find out about my exciting new projects very soon.
M.D.: Almost two years ago you opened your first restaurant. How did you come up with the idea? Do you think about starting a chain of restaurants after such a great initial success?
S.M.J.: Scottsdale, Arizona is a fantastic city to live in - and I wanted to introduce the extraordinary culinary delights of Eastern Europe to the Americans. Who knows what might be next - life is so exciting right now.
M.D.: What makes you so good in restaurant business?
S.M.J.: I’m a people person - and the customers come first. Going out to eat is an experience - I want people to feel good about the whole evening from the moment when they are greeted up on arrival to when they leave.
M.D.: What kind of cuisine was introduced to your customers? We heard that many of the dishes are inspired by you personally, can you tell us more?
S.M.J.: We blended the food of our Lithuanian culture, with Eastern European dishes, spectacular wine, fantastic surroundings and first class attention from our staff. My husband is always amazed by the food I cook for him - it’s so different to the type of food he ate growing up - that was the first inspiration for the restaurant.
M.D.: What helps you to keep such a fit shape. Sport, nutrition or good genes?
S.M.J.: I think it is a combination of all these things - my parents have blessed me with their beautiful genes; I eat well, stay out of the sun and I work out every day.
M.D.: What will be the next successful project from Sonata. Where would you like to try yourself?
S.M.J.: Life is about being open to every opportunity that comes your way - say «yes» and you will be surprised at how many amazing gifts life delivers to your door.
