The new season of Dancing with the Stars begins March 17.

In the meantime, a series of past stars of the show are touring the country. Among them is High School Musical star Monique Coleman, who is paired with professional Alec Mazo.

Here's what she had to say about the tour to TV Guide:

TVGuide.com: Why did you decide to go on tour?
Monique Coleman: Because I didn't get to do it last year. It's the holidays and there's not much going on. And because of the passion I have for dancing ever since doing the show.

Before she begins filming High School Musical 3, Monique Coleman is Dancing with the Stars again.

TVGuide.com: But you're not going to be dancing with Louis van Amstel, your partner on the show. You're going to be dancing with first-season champ Alec Mazo?
Coleman: Right. Louis is doing the choreography. Alec is definitely tough, but he's amazing at what he does. I can't wait to dance with him.

TVGuide.com: Why has the show meant so much to you?
Coleman: I feel like this is a really tough time in the industry and I feel fortunate to have been a part of two projects that have been hugely successful. If anything, going on tour is an opportunity to express some gratitude to my fans and to get to see them in person. I wouldn't have made it as far as I did if it weren't for people all over the country voting for little me.