This month, NYDC was lucky enough to score an exclusive interview with Brad Santer who plays Troy in Disney's
High School Musical: the Ice Tour! Here's what he had to say...
The Ice Tour
What were you doing before High School Musical?
Before joining Disney on Ice I was a competitive figure skater, representing Australia at various national and international competitions. I was performing in another Disney On Ice Show last year called
Princess Classics when I received a call from Judy Thomas, our Director of Talent for the company. She asked me if I was interested in auditioning for the role of Troy. I jumped at the opportunity and was flown from Dublin to Las Vegas to audition for High School Musical (HSM).
Were you a HSM fan before you got involved?
I had heard of HSM before but never truly understood how huge the phenomenon was until opening night; hearing the crowd's reaction to the show was amazing!
Can you identify with the character that you play?
Definitely! In HSM, Troy was torn between his new-found love for singing and his obligations and expectations that his school and teammates placed upon him. I had a similar experience at school, torn between rugby (which I loved) and skating which was my new-found passion. Just like Troy, my friends didn't understand my new love either.
What was the coolest thing about being involved with HSM?
It was truly inspirational working with a high-profile choreographer and producer! It made the rehearsal process so exciting working with such talented people. Combined with the on-ice expertise of choreographer Cindy Stewart and co-producers Nicole and Kenneth Feld, the rehearsal period in Lakeland, Florida was certainly something special — something I'll never forget!
What do you love most about ice skating?
Skating is such a dynamic, physically demanding sport as it is, and the performance aspect adds a whole different dimension which I love.
Home and away
What's it like getting paid to travel the world?
Travelling as part of my work can actually be quite frustrating at times. I hate living out of a suitcase for over 10 months of the year. However, I really enjoy the unique position that I'm in to experience so many different countries and cultures. I always try to visit home as often as I can.
What do you miss most about home when you are away?
My dog Tasha and my car … oh, and my family of course! I miss rugby too; I still love watching the Wallabies play and if I had to quit skating and choose another sport, I'd go back to rugby in a heartbeat!
Where do you hang out when you are home?
I spend a lot of time around Cockle Bay Wharf and Circular Quay. Downtown Sydney is such an amazing place — it is still my favourite city that I've been to.
Fun stuff
Who inspires you?
My parents. They have always been there for me and would do anything for me. I can only hope that I will be as good a parent when I have children as they have been to me.
What are your fave things in life?
Skating, music, cars and coffee. I'm a simple man!
What do you do for fun?
I really enjoy playing golf when I can find the time, but mostly hanging out with my friends, drinking lots of coffee and watching movies!
Do you think you are a good kisser?
You'd have to ask my girlfriend, Kristen.
Who is your secret crush?
If I told you it wouldn't be a secret.
Fave food?
Japanese food! Sushi, sashimi, udon — you name it and I'll eat it! My grandmother is Japanese so I grew up eating Japanese food.
Advice for NYDC members
Interested in a skating career?
Brad says: be prepared for a lot of hard work and commitment. It's not easy, but always remember why you're doing it and to enjoy yourself at the same time.
Interested in starring in a musical?
Brad says: I hope you can sing better than me!
Audition tips
- Do your homework
- Try to understand the character as much as you can
- Find a way to relate a part of your life with the character you audition for — that's what I did!