Jump On A Magic Carpet Ride with Aladdin as Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder is skating into Singapore from 9 to 17 March 2024 at Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Nelson Sanchez since the young age of 10, grew to love everything about skating and has never looked back. Today, he is known for the iconic role of Aladdin and is one of the Disney On Ice cast members who plays a key role in creating an unforgettable experience for audiences all around the world.
Nelson’s adventure with skating blossomed when his mother took him to his first skating show. Nelson’s mother realised his love for the sport, brought him his first pair of skates that lead him to start on his journey in creating unforgettable moments for families around the world. To date, his mother stayed as his biggest role model as she keeps encouraging and inspiring him to have a positive mindset, be strong and continue to spread happiness to people around him.
Our editorial team had the opportunity to interview Nelson Sanchez where he shared more about his inspiring story on how his mother’s belief in him lit his path to success, ultimately leading to his role as the iconic Aladdin in Disney On Ice, how he felt when his parents watched him on Disney On Ice for the first time. Nelson also shared valuable advice for young dreamers pursuing unconventional paths and offered insights into how parents can support their children in reaching their full potential. Continue reading to discover more about Nelson’s captivating story.
Interview with Nelson Sanchez, who portrays the iconic character Aladdin in Disney On Ice
1. Can you share with us the moment you fell in love with skating and how it has shaped your life since then?
Nelson Sanchez: I fell in love with skating after seeing my first ice skating during my first Canadian winter after moving there from the Dominican Republic. My mom took me to watch one of her friends perform in an ice skating show and I loved everything about it. Shortly after my mom bought me my first pair of skates. That moment shaped my life into what it is today and now I get to travel the world and do what I love.
2. Your mother played a pivotal role in nurturing your love for skating. Could you elaborate on how her belief in you has influenced your approach to life and your career in skating that led you to the iconic role of Aladdin in Disney On Ice?
Nelson Sanchez: As cheesy as it sounds, my biggest role model is my mom. She has a very big heart and always tries to spread happiness and love wherever she goes. No matter what she always has a positive attitude and stays strong! Her wisdom and love for me plays a huge part in how I approach life and I believe this has opened lots of opportunities for me such as portraying my favourite Disney character Aladdin.
3. Taking us back to your first skating show, can you describe the emotions and thoughts you had during that experience that sparked your passion for the sport?
Nelson Sanchez: I’ve always known my love for the sport came from performing and watching the audience enjoy the show, so when I stepped on to the ice for the first time, I immediately felt the energy of the audience, my smile got ten times bigger, and it felt like I found my purpose. I remember calling my mom on FaceTime after my first performance, and with happy tears in my eyes I told her how grateful I was for all the money and time she had invested in my skating career because it all led up to that moment.
4. Aladdin is an iconic character loved by many. How does it feel to portray such a beloved character on the Disney On Ice stage, and what challenges and joys come with the role?
Nelson Sanchez: I try to always bring my best to the ice and bring special moments to families all over the world. Being a Disney On Ice skater is very rewarding even with the challenge of being away from my family. I am very family oriented and sometimes get home sick; however, I know my family is proud of me. They know that I am doing what I love, which also makes them happy! I’m very grateful we live in a time where it’s easy to stay connected.
5. As a cast member of Disney On Ice, you contribute to creating magical moments for families. Can you share a memorable experience or interaction with the audience that stood out to you?
Nelson Sanchez: As a Disney On Ice performer I have had the opportunity to portray other memorable characters including Woody from Toy Story. There was one particular show where I portrayed Woody and during the show I happen to look out into the audience and see a little boy dressed as Woody in a wheelchair. I remember getting off the ice and giving him a hug and his whole face lit up. As I turned away I caught a glimpse his mom with tears in her eyes. After the show the little boy’s mother contacted Disney On Ice to express her gratitude and share that the little boy was very sick. She said she had never seen him so happy, filled with joy, and the moment is a memory their family will never forget. Memories like these remind me just how important my job is. Disney magic can truly impact lives in a beautiful way and I’m lucky enough to share it with audiences all around the world.
6. When your parents watched you perform on Disney On Ice for the first time, what were the emotions and reactions you observed from them, and how did that moment impact you?
Nelson Sanchez: The first time I performed in front of my parents with Disney On Ice really touched my heart. Seeing their smiles and the pride on their faces is one of my favourite memories.
7. Pursuing unconventional dreams can be challenging. What advice do you have for kids who aspire to follow their passion, even if it’s outside of traditional expectations?
Nelson Sanchez: NEVER STOP DREAMING! Growing up as a male figure skater I was always told that skating would never get me anywhere, but I always dreamed and worked hard for what I wanted. Because I never stopped dreaming and believed in my myself, today I can say I have travelled all over the world doing what I love.
8. In your journey, what has been the most rewarding aspect of being Aladdin in Disney On Ice, and how do you hope to inspire the audience, especially the younger ones?
Nelson Sanchez: The smiles and joy that come from the audience are the most rewarding aspect of portraying Aladdin. It makes me so happy to know we bring special moments to audiences all across the globe.
9. For parents who want to support their children in pursuing their dreams, what tips or suggestions do you have based on your own experiences and with your mother’s support?
Nelson Sanchez: My mother played a very important part in my skating career. She was always supportive and never pressured me to do anything I did not want. Her primary concern was that I had fun and enjoyed myself.
Based on my experiences, I’d say the best support any parent can give their kids would be to show up and love them even when they fail. Failing is an important part in achieving your goals and I remember all the times that I felt like I failed. During those times my mom would look at me, tell me how proud she was of me, and that no matter what happens if I was having fun then I already achieved true success.
10. Lastly, what would you like to say to our readers who are looking forward to watching Disney On Ice and your performance as Aladdin?
Nelson Sanchez: When you come to see Disney On Ice you can truly disconnect from your day to day life, leave all the stress behind, and experience the magic of Disney with your family. Remember to just have fun, sing along, dance, and truly enjoy the beautiful memories that your family will create.
Catch Nelson Sanchez as Aladdin and be transported to a whole new world together with all the beloved Disney characters coming to live on the ice. Come and join in the fun at Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder from 9 to 17 March 2024 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium as they glide, twirl, and spin their way into your hearts. Find out more and get your tickets now at https://ticketmaster.sg/activity/detail/24_doi2024
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