It…is…time…to meet two exceptional performers at Disneyland Paris! Before Alexandre Carter and Jean-Yves Amusan were sharing the stage as vocalists in The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands, they were brothers growing up and honing their talents singing in their family’s gospel group.
“It was through a friend who was already working on The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands show that I came to audition for Disneyland Paris,” said Alexandre. “She took the time to call me to convince me to audition as a singer to play the role of Simba. Being a graphic designer at the time, I took the day off to come and take these auditions. I drove from Lille to Paris and a few days later I got a call that changed my life!”
Once Alexandre began his contract performing in the show, it wasn’t long before Jean-Yves found himself at an audition as well.
“I have always been a fan of Disney since I was little, and I love the place given to music in the Disney universe,” said Jean-Yves. “So, I took my courage in both hands and applied. Of course, my brother also had something to do with it because he was already a singer in the show. I went to see him in the show and said to myself ‘I want to do that.’ I was so proud of him.”
Before a new cast of performers makes their debut in the show, they have an extensive rehearsal process to get comfortable in their roles and bond as a team. “I think that's where the magic for the cast begins,” said Alexandre.
“We have a very intense month of rehearsal where we work on the scores and choreography. During this month, we strengthen our team cohesion and we get to know each other,” said Jean-Yves.
Then after becoming integrated with the dance coaches, acrobats, dancers, percussionists, dressers, management and technical teams, it’s time to perform for thousands of eager guests.
“Just before the show starts, when everyone gathers on the side of the stage and we all wish each other a good show - that’s where we exchange energies, this is where unity really takes its meaning I think,” said Alexandre.
In his role performing as Rafiki, Jean-Yves loves launching the show with Circle of Life. “Something happens when we hear the voiceover ‘IT IS TIME’ that starts the show. We know that we must give our best for the public and we all share our energy, that gives us courage. The energy is magnificent. I always get chills when I hear the first notes.”
The start of the show is also a highlight for Alexandre in his role portraying Simba’s journey beginning as a young prince.
“Those who know me, know that I don't play that part, I'm just me! I am a fairly jovial person and I love to laugh, jump everywhere, tease my comrades, and of course sing. So, this part of the show allows me to put all this playfulness in the service of the character without real effort I must admit,” said Alexandre.
Now with hundreds of performances behind him and many more to look forward to in the future, Jean-Yves reflects on the home he has found on stage at Disneyland Paris.
“Disney was clearly a place for me where I wanted to work because this company is full of opportunities and dreams,” said Jean-Yves. “To tell you the truth, my work environment is really a place where, as an artist, I feel truly fulfilled. There is such kindness, we are made to feel comfortable, and we are taken care of. The teams really listen to us.”
Similarly, after over three years with the company, Alexandre is still happy to have taken the leap and attended his first Disney audition.
“I chose Disney because it is an incredible place, one of my favorite films as a child was The Lion King, so when I saw the show and heard the songs from the show, I had to try my luck. And today after four seasons it’s still a huge source of pride to me to be a part of it,” said Alexandre.
For anyone considering a career performing with Disney, Alexandre shared this advice:
“I would tell them to be themselves and take the plunge, and even if it doesn't work out first time don't give up and try again because if you are talented, whatever your field, I think that Disney will have a place for you and will be able to put this talent to deliver the magic.”
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