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Masiela Lusha

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Masiela Lusha
Masiela Lusha attending a P.A.L (Police Activities League) event in 2010.
Born (1985-10-23) October 23, 1985 (age 39)
Tirana, Albania
NationalityAmerican, Albanian
EducationUniversity of California, Los Angeles
Occupation(s)Actress, poet, humanitarian
Years active2001–present (actress)
1997–present (author)
Notable workDrinking the Moon
The Besa
Inner Thoughts
AwardsTwo Young Artist Awards for Leading Young Actress in a Comedy and Drama
Top Ten Talented Poets of North America
Websitehttp://www.masielalusha.com/
Signature

Masiela Lusha (Template:Pron-en; born October 23, 1985)[1] is an American author, actress, producer and humanitarian who rose to fame in 2002 after starring in film and TV projects such as ABC's George Lopez and Sony Picture's Blood: The Last Vampire. As an author, Lusha has written seven books in two languages. [2][3]

Lusha spent her childhood chiefly in Albania, Hungary and Austria. She studied ballet in Vienna, and then moved to Michigan in 1993, where she continued to train in various forms of dance.[4] She gained recognition in 2002 when she co-starred as the passionate and rebellious character, Carmen Lopez, for five years, on the globally syndicated Warner Brothers series, George Lopez.[4] She then starred in a string of movies such as Muertas, Katie Malone, Ballad of Broken Angels, Summoning, A Father's Love, Time of the Comet, and Sony Pictures Entertainment, Blood: The Last Vampire.[4] In recognition of her work, Lusha has been awarded two consecutive Young Artist Awards for Leading Young Actress in a Comedy and Drama. In 2007, Lusha founded her production company, Illuminary Pictures, and has since produced two films with the company. Throughout her career, Lusha has been placed on numerous 'best dressed' lists.

As an author, Lusha is also considered to be the youngest author in the world to publish a book in two languages. She is also recognized as one of the Top Ten Talented Poets of North America for her published work[5][6] Lusha has since written four books of poetry, Inner Thoughts, Drinking the Moon, Amore Celeste, The Call, a novel The Besa, and two children's books, Boopity Boop! Goes To Hawaii, and Boopity Boop! Writes Her First Poem, which was released in 2010.[7] Lusha has also written poetry in English, Albanian and German, and has translated into English several poems and prayers by Mother Theresa.[3]

As a goodwill ambassador, Lusha is known to devote her time and resources to causes around the world that promote children's wellbeing and education.[4] For Scholastic's Read For Life, Lusha visits schools across America and reads to children for the purpose of promoting an appreciation for books. As the national spokesperson for ABC's hunger-relief program, The Great American Bake Sale, Lusha visits local towns throughout the United States and supports food drives to help battle childhood hunger.[4][8] In 2008, Lusha founded the nonprofit, Children of the World Foundation, which shelters, educates and promotes healthy communication between family members.[8] She donated 10 acres (40,000 m2) of land so the charity could build its first community center in Southern California.[8]

Early life

Lusha was born in Tirana, Albania [7] and is the only child of Max and Daniela. She was named Masiela by a merging of her parents' names. In 1990, Lusha and her family left their homeland.[9] Upon leaving Albania, Lusha moved to Budapest, Hungary, and Vienna, Austria. While living in Vienna, Lusha studied ballet and art. Lusha later said in an interview that she and her mother "shared one shadow throughout each transition" in their lives and considered her mother to be her "best friend."[4] In a later interview, Lusha's kindergarten teacher described Lusha as "a soft-spoken, gentle child with absolutely no tincture of rebellion in her make-up." Echoing such observations, Lusha's former English teacher described Lusha when she was 12 as "thoughtful and graceful... full of enthusiasm and energy."[10][11]

When later asked about the Albanian culture she left behind, Lusha was quoted as saying: "There’s a condensed softness about the Albanian people, and I’ve witnessed examples of their hospitality and compassion. Their blood runs through my veins, and I am proud to call myself Albanian."[10] It is reported that many of the women in Lusha's family were published poets, and much of her creative inspiration was fostered by her mother. At that time, Lusha's mother was an editor who had published the first full-color Albanian magazine, Ora. As a child, it was revealed that Lusha's nightly lullabies consisted of her mother's poetry recited to her every evening. Inspired by her mother's work, Lusha then wrote her own collection of poems in various languages a few years later.[9][11]

Childhood and adolescence in America (1992–present)

At the age of seven, Lusha settled in Michigan, learning English as her fourth language. Although it was reported by her teacher that Lusha was very popular among her peers, she later admitted that becoming fluent in four languages in such a short period of time caused her to have a difficult time understanding assignments in school.[7] Lusha is said to have credited her English teacher, Mrs. Presta, for restoring her confidence by encouraging her to recite her poems before the class. As a result, she dedicated her first book of poetry to her teacher.[12] In various interviews throughout her career, Lusha noted that it was her 6th grade English teacher who supported and encouraged her writing.[4]

In Michigan, it is reported that Lusha enrolled in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical and cheerleading. Lusha's school, John Muir Middle School, also voted her captain of their cheerleading team. That same year, Lusha also won first place in her school's talent show for performing a tap routine to the song Cotton Eye Joe.[7] Before becoming a professional actress, she played a Dancing Box on stage for one of her school's plays. As a result, her peers established a school fan club called the Masiela Lusha Dancing Box Club with over 175 members. Starring in various local theater plays, Lusha later said she soon realized her calling was to entertain.[7]

At the age of twelve, Lusha began a modeling career in Michigan. After a few months of professional modeling and acting in local theater plays, she was discovered by a Hollywood talent agent who held an open call in Detroit, Michigan. Over six hundred children attended; at the end of the mass audition, the agent narrowed down his list to three children and selected Lusha as his client. That following year, while acting in Los Angeles, Lusha became a published author with her first book of poetry, Inner Thoughts.[11]

Literary career

Lusha signs copies of her book.

Early recognition (1997–2004)

It flutters in the dark,
In heaven makes a tour....

Campfire in the Dark, Inner Thoughts. Sample written by Lusha at the age of 12.[13]

Lusha wrote poetry in various languages from the age of eight.[5] At the age of 12, while residing in Michigan, Lusha published a book of her poems titled Inner Thoughts. This book named her as the youngest author in the world to write a book in two languages.[6] Soon after, Lusha was recognized as one of the Top Ten Talented Poets of North America for her published work, and received the recognition of former President Bill Clinton, who encouraged her to stand as an example for future generations.[5] Upon graduating high school three years ahead of her peers, Lusha had already published two collections of poetry.[14]In 2004, Lusha described her passion for poetry as "simply inherent" and later said that "while some mothers sing lullabies to their children, my mother read me poetry. And to this day, I associate my strongest and most insistent feelings with words lyrically organized on a page." As of 2010, Lusha has since written a total of seven books. [15]

Drinking the Moon, novel and children's books (2005–present)

Although Lusha considered herself to be "skinny, quiet and unassuming" in her youth, she said that she continued to feel a "resistless passion, a need and hunger to create my own world." In several interviews, when describing the fulfillment she feels when writing, Lusha said her writing "filled that void," and its words "fed that vital necessity for ownership of oneself."[10] In 2005, Lusha published her second book of poetry, "Drinking the Moon." In 2008, Lusha also completed two more books of poetry: Amore Celeste and The Call.[16]

So we remain,
Immortal and Found.

Excerpt from Lusha's poem, This Child Desires Spring[13]

At the age of 24, Lusha published two children's books titled Boopity Boop! Goes To Hawaii and "Boopity Boop! Writes Her First Poem." Lusha wrote "Boopity Boop!" in three languages: English, Albanian and German.[17] Ana McKenzie of the Tolucan Times wrote of Boopity Boop!: "...[Lusha's] smart incorporation of imagery, similes and metaphors is digestible enough for children of any age..."[15] In various interviews, Lusha stated that she wrote Boopity Boop with the desire for her work to be used "as a tool to unbind children from the expectations of poetry because every book should carry a moral and release a child into a world of self-expression and exploration."[9] In a 2010 interview, Lusha said, "children are translucent promises. And in their little pink palm each child bears the torch that will one day illuminate our path towards wisdom, compassion, and decency; this is why I believe it is our inherent duty as a global society to ignite a flare of confidence and purpose in every piece of literature and entertainment for our children."[4]

In 2005 Lusha also completed a novel titled The Besa. The novel is based on a popular Balkan legend about a promise fulfilled past death. Lusha put all rumors to rest by admitting that she completed the novel in a month "with the desire to cement and celebrate the fundamental traditions in Albania." By the age of 20, Lusha had also translated into English several Albanian poems and prayers by Mother Theresa and had written several poems in the German language.[6]

Themes and beliefs

Lusha's work explores a variety of poetic form. Her work ranges from classic iambic pentameter to contemporary free verse, exploring a unique blend of themes and rules. Lusha's work does not seem to venture into the autobiographical. Instead, her various poems focus on universals themes such as muse, compassion, and purity. She also uses unusual images and symbols in her poetry, including marble history, liquid moons, and cotton angels, and her later style has often been compared to that of Pablo Neruda.[14] In Drinking the Moon, she has also written about charity, celibacy, and temperance. In a 2004 interview, Lusha stated,

Poetry is a lyrical insinuation. Often, its melodic subtlety kisses the subconscious mind.[14]

Acting career

Lusha during a screen test in 2010.

Career beginnings and early roles (1997–1999)

Lusha launched her career as a model and theater actress in Michigan. While residing in her hometown, Lusha's first theatrical role was a nonspeaking, background character in her school's production of Up and Away. Although Lusha's role in Up and Away was considered minor, her nonvocal performance caught the attention of the school's drama coach who approached her about enrolling in the drama department that following year.[4] Upon entering the drama department, Lusha then portrayed the role of Cinderella in the play, The Last Dress Rehearsal and Belle in Beauty and the Beast. She also portrayed an Umpa Lumpa and a Tap-Dancing Box in the play, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. For her performance as a "Dancing Box" Lusha received the recognition of her peers who founded the Masiela Lusha Dancing Box Fan Club. Purportedly, within weeks, over 175 classmates signed in support.[11] Soon after moving to California, Lusha was selected as the principle fashion model in a multinational Back-to-School JC Penny television campaign which aired in America and South America, and was cast in the Alanis Morissette Music Video, Hands Clean.[18]

Hollywood: George Lopez and popularity established (2000–2007)

"Acting is not a lofty performance; it is simply the source of becoming and existing transparently. Acting, I find, is the art of frothing to the surface every raw and honest emotion. The moment an actor pretends, he loses his audience forever."

Lusha in 2008[4]

2000 was Lusha's television debut with a guest appearance on the Disney Channel series, Lizzie Mcguire as the character Olivia in the episode Last Year's Model. Lusha made her film debut in the 2000 film A Father's Love, as Lisa, the lead who reminisces on her experiences with her father.

In 2001, she was handpicked from a pool of 2,800 hopefuls to portray the role of Carmen Lopez on the newly developed ABC sitcom, George Lopez. The show was executive produced by Academy Award winner Sandra Bullock and Bruce Helford.[19][20] After completing its 120th episode, the hit show reached global syndication, and established Lusha as a TV veteran by the age of 20.[21] Ethan Alter of Media Life Magazine praised Lusha's role, stating: " with the exception of Masiela Lusha, who manages to breathe life into her role." In addition, he felt "Lusha and Lopez share a nice chemistry, and their scenes together are easily the highlight of the show."[22] That following year, the George Lopez show won an Emmy and was established as the second-longest-running sitcom in television history to star a hispanic lead, after I Love Lucy. To this date, it continues to be Nick at Night's highest rated series and one of cable's best for an syndicated sitcom. Later in the series, it became known that Lusha was the only non-Hispanic in the cast. Despite this revelation, the Hispanic community accepted her portrayal of Carmen Lopez and embraced her as one of their own.[4] Lusha described her character as "possessing a wisdom, a naïveté, and an idealism all glued together by passion of the rawest form." Lusha also said that Carmen taught her more about boys and rebellion than most of her friends, and that she often envied her brash, passionate ways.[4] Lusha said she liked feeling sheltered as a teenager, compared to Carmen who she said "yearns to escape the confines of a family who doesn't understand her."[4] Lusha's character moved to Vermont to attend college prior to the end of season five. Although to this day Lusha has yet to reveal or confirm the reasons behind her departure, George Lopez stated in 2007 that due to "creative differences" her character was written off the show. In a later interview, Constance Marie, Lusha's TV mother, revealed that the series "could now return to its full-hispanic cast."[23]

Lusha won two consecutive Young Artists Awards for Best Leading Actress in a Comedy and Drama for her portrayal as Carmen. [24] While working on George Lopez, Lusha also voiced the energetic character of Nina for four years on the popular animated series Clifford's Puppy Days. The cast consisted of fellow Veteran actor, Henry Winkler.[25] Portraying the character of Nina introduced Lusha to children's entertainment, and in 2009, when Lusha wrote her first children's book, she credited her earlier experiences with the show. For her portrayal as Nina, Lusha received her third Young Artist Award nomination.[4]

International film roles and global recognition (2008–present)

Masiela Lusha arriving at the Warner Brothers Studios lot on October 2010.

In December 2009, to the delight of fans, Lusha joined the original cast of George Lopez for a televised reunion on Lopez Tonight. During the live reunion taping, when asked about her experiences on the show, Lusha said: "it is the show that keeps giving. Every year it offers something to society, and it offered something to each and every one of us. It brought us all together for a lifetime."[26]

Lusha has since guest starred as Mira on an episode of Law & Order: Criminal Intent.[3] At the suggestion of George Clooney, Lusha has also starred in the film Muertas (2008) in which she portrayed the determined and sensitive lead, Aracelli.[4] In the film, Lusha's dialogue was in Spanish, and although she did not speak a word of the language, she later said in an interview that she was "thrilled with the challenge."[4] Lusha also stated that to her, Muertas "is a love story reflecting on Araceli's dreams for a better life." She described her character's struggle by saying, "Araceli also understands that to dream is to defy, and to defy is to be captured and killed. Araceli's bravery is about her willingness to take that risk." Throughout filming Lusha reflected on her mother's own struggles and filmed Muertas as a "tribute to her integrity and strength." In the film, Lusha was said to have "glimmered with an innate aura of elegance and grace. She projected an iridescent portrayal of vulnerability and strength."[2][27]

Lusha with poet laureate, Ismail Kadare during a press conference for the film, Time of the Comet

Lusha also starred as Saint Agnes in the Albanian production of Time of the Comet (2008) based on the novel A Difficult Year by poet laureate and several-time Nobel Prize candidate, Ismail Kadare. Lusha later said that this was her first visit to her homeland in 17 years. Throughout the film, Lusha's dialogue was entirely in Albanian; even more, she needed to speak in a particular rural accent. In 2008, Albania's national newspaper, Illyria, reviewed the film, stating: "Lusha has given a memorable and powerful performance by expressing beautifully the inner conflicts of Agnes as well as her vulnerabilities to the core. Even the writer Ismail Kadare has appreciated her work." In the same article, Fatmir Koci, the film's director, said of finding their Agnes: "We searched across Albania for two years for our lead actress. We visited schools, everything. We needed an actress who had a purity about her, an innocence. As soon as we saw her performance on tape, we knew she was the one. There was no discussion about it." He added, "She was professional, always lifted our moods when filming became difficult, and we loved her. As soon as she entered the set, everyone stood straighter.[2] In the film, Lusha plays a catholic nun who falls in love with a Muslim rebel.[4] When describing her character, Lusha believed Agnes "symbolized a country brimming with souls who were searching for their roots and happiness during a time of political and social conflict." Lusha admitted that Time of the Comet held a special place in her heart because "in the end we are all searching for our home, that one place where we belong." When asked about her experiences working with different nationalities and cultures on set, Lusha said: "As actors, we dug so deep into our senses, our country's borders and cultures blurred into one pot of emotion, and we performed above the complexities of language and formality."[28] Since it's theatrical release, the movie has become the highest grossing film in Albanian history, re-airing in television networks in Germany, Austria, Kosovo, Italy, and France.[2]

Days after wrapping Time of the Comet, Lusha portrayed the role of the sword-wielding, vampire in disguise, Sharon in the Sony Pictures high-budget remake of the cult classic Blood: The Last Vampire alongside Jun Ji-Hyun. The film was co-produced by French company Pathé and Hong Kong company Edko. In 2009, the film premiered in Japan and and was released internationally by Sony Pictures.[7] In describing her martial arts sequences, Lusha credited her earlier training in the art of fencing and defined the nature of sword-fighting as a dance.[4]

In 2010, Lusha also starred in the film, Katie Malone. She portrayed the role of Ginger, a beautiful premed college student who is tormented by the ghost of a slave girl. The film's director, Carlos Ramos, Jr., said that "Masiela Lusha was a real pro. She really took this film to the next level."[29] One Tree Hill actor Stephen Colletti and Superman star Dean Cain also costarred in the movie. The film is slated to be released by American World Pictures in 2012.[30]

Relationship with fans

Masiela Lusha posing with a fan in 2010

Lusha maintains social media accounts and has updated on both Twitter and Facebook.[31][32] She also responds to public posts on her official website's message board where fans from around the world post questions, thoughts and even concerns about their own life issues in which she frequently answers. On one particular occasion, it was revealed that she had mailed boxes of clothes and supplies directly to a family who had made an earlier request for a back-to-school wardrobe on her website.[33] In other instances, fans have left messages on her message board, stating that they have named their newborn daughters after her. In responses to her fans, Lusha has expressed interest in connecting on a personal level.

Lusha has numerous times credited her fans' words of encouragement for her continued passion in acting, and at one point wrote that she considers acting to be a "selfless and noble profession when pursued with a pure heart."[33] However, despite Lusha's openness to communicate with her fans, she has numerous times refused to edit fans' poetical works and responded with the lines: "to critique such sincere thoughts and human expression contradicts the very essence of poetry" and "our nature as sensitive beings is far too complex to break apart, re-examine and reshape." In her messages, she encourages her fans to continue sharing poems, and honest opinions, in which she addresses in an open letter.[4]

In 2007 it became known that Lusha was not Hispanic despite portraying the lead role of Carmen Lopez on the George Lopez show for five years. The producers expressed concerns on how the public would react to the news; however, no issue was raised, and the Latin community accepted her portrayal of Carmen Lopez and embraced her as one of their own; and to this day, a part of the Latin community still insists that she is in fact Latina.[4] For her fans continued support and encouragement, Lusha wrote: "I continue to pursue new paths in my career in the hopes of inspiring you to build upon your natural talents. I write and act with you in mind."[4]

Humanitarian work and public service campaigns

Masiela Lusha greeting fans in 2010.

Lusha once famously stated in a televised 2009 interview: "If I cannot offer some relief to our world, if I cannot inspire our generation to join me, then I feel I am a complete waste of space. This constant fear of feeling irrelevant in our society has been the catalyst behind all my efforts and passions."[8] It is reported that Lusha's personal experiences in various countries inspires her passion for humanitarian work. Lusha's charitable work focuses on social issues such as children rights, culture and education. She is involved with various family-oriented charities, is an animal rights enthusiast and the patron of 1736 Family Crisis Center. Lusha is known to have spent her weekends at a local soup kitchen, serving meals to the homeless.[8]

Since 2007, as the Ambassador for Scholastic's Read for Life, Lusha is involved in national PSA commercials and continues to read to school children across America. Throughout her career, she promotes the value of appreciating the written word. As the national spokesperson for the Great American Bake Sale, a hunger-relief program, Lusha visits local towns throughout the United States and supports food drives in over 15 states to help battle childhood hunger.[8] For her role as a national spokesperson, Lusha promotes the importance of raising funds to help local communities.[8]

Lusha has stated numerous times that she would like her books to be used as tools for children to pursue their individual dreams and passions and has commented, when asked what she would be doing if she weren’t a celebrity, "I dreamed of being a teacher when I was younger. Teachers throughout my life have played a vital role in the development of my creativity, and as early as I can remember, I've always been inspired by the power of their work."[9] When describing her role as a young author, and youth ambassador promoting education, Lusha famously stated: "I feel it is our inherent duty as a humane society, above any intangible responsibility, to invest in our children’s potential, passion and confidence, because with every child labeled lost in this world, we lose a battle.".[9]

While filming in the Balkans in 2008, Lusha was made aware of the deprived conditions of local homeless children wandering the streets and begging for food. About her personal experiences meeting these children, Lusha said:

As I witnessed the heartbreaking conditions of orphans, some as young as five years old, lining the streets, I felt that these children were robbed of their human and inherent right to be loved, and receive the opportunities that society can provide.[8]

Lusha founded Children of the World Foundation, a 501(c)3 that offers food, shelter and education to families in deprived conditions. For Children of the World, she donated 10 acres (40,000 m2) of land for a community center focused on rehabilitating families in need.[8]

Cultural influence

Written works

Lusha's career and television influence has been explored in a number of books, most notably How to Become a Magnet to Hollywood Success by Michele Blood and Rock Riddle. Lusha has also been mentioned in Whiz Kids by Jesee K Mwaura; The Albanian Poets Almanac; The American Family on Television by Maria Brooks; Become a Magnet to Money: Through the Sea of Unlimited Consciousness by Bob Proctor; Contemporary Theater, Film and Television by Thomas Riggs; Albania - Webster's Speciality Crossword Puzzles; George Lopez: Latino King of Comedy by Lila Guzman and Rick Guzman, as well as George Lopez's own autobiography, Why You Crying?: My Long, Hard Look at Life, Love, and Laughter.

Personal life

Little is known of Lusha's personal life. During the filming of George Lopez, Lusha was privately schooled.[4] Lusha graduated from Burbank high school at the age of 15. That same year, Lusha attended Glendale College, in Southern California. She graduated with an AA degree and transferred to UCLA as a junior three years early. While at UCLA, Lusha majored in Creative Writing.[4][5] In 2007, Lusha founded the production company Illuminary Pictures and has since produced two films with the company.[34] In 2008, it was reported that Lusha was labeled a genius, but in a 2009 interview, Lusha dismissed the story as "absolutely untrue" and called it "misleading to future generations," because "any child imbued with a sense of purpose and self-worth can accomplish what I have, and even surpass me."[4]

Lusha currently resides in Los Angeles, California.[4]

Books

Poetry collections

  • Inner Thoughts (1999)
  • Drinking the Moon (2005)
  • The Call (2010)
  • Amore Celeste (2009)

Collected prose and novels

  • The Besa (2008)

Children's books

  • Boopity Boop! Writes Her First Poem (2010)
  • Boopity Boop! Goes To Hawaii (2010)

Filmography

Year Title Role Notes
1999 The James Bond Story Mary Lou
1999 Movie Surfers' Herself
2000 Father's Love Lisa
2001 Summoning Blonde Girl
2001 Lizzie McGuire Friend Episode: "Last Year's Model"
2002 Las muertas de Juarez Araceli
2002–2007 George Lopez Carmen Lopez 101 episodes
2003–2005 Clifford's Puppy Days Nina (voice) 46 episodes
2003 A Merry Mickey Celebration Herself
2004 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade Herself
2004 Cherry Bomb Kim
2004 TV Guide Close Up: Primetime Herself
2004 SoapTalk Herself
2005 Unscripted Herself
2005 Teen Nick Host
2006 Law & Order: Criminal Intent Mira Episode: "Blasters"
2006 Vivo Herself
2007 My Father's Eulogy Lisa
2007 Time of the Comet Saint Agnes
2009 Blood: The Last Vampire Sharon
2009 Ballad of Broken Angels: Harmony Rox
2009 Lopez Tonight Herself
2010 Kill Katie Malone Ginger
2010 Of Silence Annabelle Completed
2010 Signed in Blood Nadia In production
2010 Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story' Herself
2011 Tough Business' Grace
2011 The Science of Cool TBA Pre-production
Year Award Result Category Series
2003 Young Artist Award Won Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) – Leading Young Actress George Lopez
2004 Nominated Best Performance in a Voice-Over Role – Young Actress Clifford's Puppy Days
Won Best Performance in a TV Series (Comedy or Drama) – Leading Young Actress George Lopez

References

  1. ^ Fox News Channel Celebrity Birthdays. Accessed April 20, 2009.
  2. ^ a b c d Elmira Muja (November 21, 2008). "Masiela lusha, shqiptarja qe u zbulua ne Michigan nga agjenti prej Californie". Illyria (in Albanian). Tirana. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  3. ^ a b c Tanoposki, B. (April 14, 2007). "Shqiptarja e Hollivudit: Masiela Lusha vjen ne Tiane". Panorama (in Albanian). Tirana. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |trans_title= ignored (|trans-title= suggested) (help)
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y "Masiela Lusha". masielalusha.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  5. ^ a b c d Henerson, Samantha (October 30, 2006). "Masiela's Poetry Patterns". Scholastic Magazine. USA. pp. 4–5.
  6. ^ a b c "In Step With: Masiela Lusha". Parade Magazine. March 2, 2004.
  7. ^ a b c d e f "Masiela Lusha Biography (1985–)". filmreference.com. Retrieved September 2, 2009.
  8. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Masiela Lusha Foundation". Masiela Lusha Foundation. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  9. ^ a b c d e Rudolph, Joyce (October 27, 2010). "Sharing passion for poetry". Burbank Leader. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  10. ^ a b c "REEL Lady: Masiela Lusha « REEL Ladies". reelladies.wordpress.com. September 1, 2008. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  11. ^ a b c d Madden, Mekeisha (May 1, 2004). "Formal For One Night". The Detroit News. USA. p. Cover/Section D.
  12. ^ Lusha, Masiela (1997). "Inner Thoughts". G&D Publishing. {{cite news}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  13. ^ a b Poemhunter.com
  14. ^ a b c LaGuardia, Gina (October 2004). "Masiela's Musings". College Bound Teen. USA. p. 2.
  15. ^ a b Young Author Makes Her Mark in the World of Children’s Literature Tolucan Times
  16. ^ "Official Masiela Lusha Literary Works – Drinking the Moon". masielalusha.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  17. ^ A portion of the proceeds from all of our books go to support the authors charity.... Little Black Dog Publishing
  18. ^ "Masiela Lusha says". hollywoodsuccess.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  19. ^ Schneider, Michael (March 29, 2006). "Slayer of Stereotypes". Daily Variety. Hollywood. p. A1-A14.
  20. ^ http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20356896_430049,00.html
  21. ^ Garron, Barry (April 28, 2006). "Stand-Up Guise". The Hollywood Reporter. Hollywood. p. 13.
  22. ^ MediaLifeMagazine.com, 'George Lopez'. Accessed April 20, 2011.
  23. ^ Turner, Timothy (May 1, 2008). "Cast Reunited". The Detroit News. USA. p. Cover/Section C.
  24. ^ "25th Annual Young Artist Awards – Winners and Nominations". youngartistawards.org. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  25. ^ Terril, Joey (April 2004). "Tiger Beat Takes You Behind The Scenes: Masiela Lusha". Tiger Beat. Los Angeles. p. 66.
  26. ^ "George Lopez Sitcom Reunion December 15!". Lopez Tonight. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  27. ^ "Official Masiela Lusha Muertas". masielalusha.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  28. ^ "Official Masiela Lusha Time of the Comet". masielalusha.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  29. ^ "Katie Malone director interivew".
  30. ^ "Katie Malone director interview".
  31. ^ "Twitter.com Masiela Lusha (Masiela) on Twitter". Retrieved September 16, 2009.
  32. ^ "Facebook.com Masiela Lusha (Masiela) on Facebook". Retrieved September 16, 2009.
  33. ^ a b "Official Masiela Lusha Message Center". masielalusha.com. Retrieved June 1, 2011.
  34. ^ "Illuminary Pictures". Illuminary Pictures. January 4, 2008. Retrieved June 1, 2011.

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