On The Road: Philippe Arroyo
This week's edition of On The Road features the third and final member of Aladdin's sidekick squad, Philippe Arroyo! Philippe is a native Floridian and gratulated from Carnegie Mellon University with a BFA in musical theatre. You might recognize him from his time on the Into the Woods national tour. Currently, Philippe is playing Omar on the first national tour of Disney's award winning musical, Aladdin! Make sure to check him out when Aladdin's magic carpet lands in your city!
How long have you been a performer?
I’ve been a performer since elementary school! I told my mother that I wanted to be a Disney Channel actor, so she threw me in some theatre camps so I could get some “training.”
What was the first show you ever saw that changed your life?
For my 16th birthday a friend of mine took me to see Jersey Boys. After the show I became obsessed. To this day, I still listen to the album more than anything else. That show is a huge part of why I became an actor.
Who is the coolest celebrity you’ve ever met at work?
I really liked meeting Melissa McCarthy. She looked me dead in the eyes after the show and said, “great job” and I thought... you probably say that to everyone, but thank you.
What has been your most memorable moment on tour so far?
I think the first day of rehearsal. We were all so excited to be there and read the script together for the first time as a cast!
Do you have any special rituals or moments that happen backstage before or during the show each night?
We don’t do it every night, but sometimes before a show Zach Bencal (Babkak), Jed Feder (Kassim), Clinton Greenspan (Aladdin), and myself will huddle in a circle, put our hands together and say, “Street rats on three!” I think it really brings us together!
What is your favorite thing about your job?
My favorite thing is that I get to do what I love for a living; Performing! On top of that, I get the opportunity to visit some pretty incredible cities.
Pictured with fellow cast members Zach Bencal and Jed Feder.
What is the most challenging part of being an actor on tour?
I think being away from your friends and family can be tough. Especially during the holidays. That’s why I’m grateful to have this tour family!
What is your favorite number to perform in your show?
High Adventure. I get to feel like Inigo Montoya from The Princess Bride.
What is your favorite part about telling this story every night?
Hearing the audience react to the magic. I remember how awestruck I was when I saw Aladdin for the first time. I’m just glad to be a part of that magic.
What advice would you give to a young person who wants to pursue a career in the arts?
A big part of having career in the arts in keeping yourself motivated. That’s also the hardest part for me. If you’re having trouble staying motivated just remember that action inspires motivation, and the motivation inspires more action. So start with something small, and I promise you you’ll feel the impulse to keep going further!
FUN FACTS:
What was the first Broadway show you ever saw?
Beauty and the Beast.
What is your favorite Broadway show you've ever seen?
Jersey Boys.
What is your favorite costume in Aladdin?
I love the Genie’s costume. It has so many different shades of blue that come out so beautifully.
What is your favorite costume you've ever worn?
The blue marketplace costume I wear for the majority of Aladdin.
What is your favorite fun fact about Aladdin?
So I’m a huge Star Wars nerd, so when I heard that the Cave of Wonders set has the same gold finish as C-3PO, I almost lost it!
Images by Samuel Greenhill
Cincinatti, Ohio
