The magazine recently stopped by the set of Family Channel’s The Next Step to see what happens behind the scenes. The cast and crew juggle busy schedules, especially in the summer when new episodes are filmed. For the dancers, summer begins with learning routines in the first weeks and rehearsing whenever they aren’t shooting. The team aims to complete about one and a half episodes per day.
The Next Step has a reality show vibe, yet most lines come from improv. Actors are briefed on what should happen in the scene and then they craft their lines on the spot. Many cast members are still in school, and younger performers like Victoria Baldesarra have a parent on set to supervise. Lunch breaks are shared among everyone, filled with laughter and conversation before returning to work for the rest of the day. The episodes often end with talking heads where characters reflect on their feelings. A workday can stretch to thirteen hours, keeping the set lively and busy.
A round of quick conversations with several cast members, including Alexandra Beaton, Victoria Baldesarra, Isaac Lupien and Brittany Raymond, offered a glimpse into life on set and what fans can expect as season one nears its close.
How long have you been dancing? Alexandra Beaton notes that she began dancing in high school, mainly focusing on acting. Victoria Baldesarra says she started when she was three years old. Isaac Lupien recalls his first stage appearance at eleven months old, with both parents running a dance studio. Bree Wasylenko says she has been dancing for twenty years. Lamar Johnson remembers starting at nine, joining a talent show crew with his best friend and winning first place. Trevor Tordjman reveals that dance runs in his family, as his mother owns a studio.
How did you get involved with The Next Step? Alexandra explains that she was discovered by an agent in Toronto and went through the audition circuit. Brittany describes how her dance teacher was contacted by the casting director and brought dancers to the show, which was unknown at the time; she was nervous but soon realized she loved acting. Bree recalls being one of the last three contenders for Miss Kate and getting the role by being the one who could set the pace. Lamar says he took a break from dancing, then returned to dance after re-engaging with acting, feeling grateful that the show rekindled his passion.
How do you relate to your character? Victoria says she and Michelle feel very real on screen. Alexandra notes that Emily is challenging, and she can be stubborn, which many people understand. Isaac says his character Eldon, though goofy, shares traits with him, especially his love for long hours of dance videos online. Brennan Clost says Daniel is deeply passionate and tries to stay away from unnecessary drama. Lamar relates to West as an extroverted goofball at times, balancing serious and funny sides.
What’s been the biggest challenge? Victoria highlights the difficulty of serious scenes, especially when the vibe off camera is not how the characters behave. Brittany says staying on top of her character in every scene matters because the schedule often is out of order. Brennan cites improv as a challenge due to a perfectionist streak. Jennifer Pappas, who plays Chloe, admits acting is new to her and the emotional demands can be hard. Lamar notes matching the team’s dancing and catching up with technical training can be tough for him.
What is it like working on set? Brittany describes a calm, relaxed environment where the cast is close. Alexandra emphasizes a friendly culture with no prima donnas. Victoria adds that they are real friends, sharing small spaces rather than big trailers, and they hang out together. Bree enjoys moments in the green room and video village while observing the filming like a fly on the wall.
What do you do in your free time outside The Next Step? Brittany says she likes shopping and Netflix. Alexandra enjoys books, yoga, and time with friends. Brennan spends summers at a friend’s barn with horses and cats. Bree keeps busy with more dance and other TV work, and she teaches dance. Jennifer likes shopping as well.
What’s your favorite show besides The Next Step? Victoria picks The Lizzie McGuire Show, Isaac opts for Dragon Ball Z, Brennan loves The Vampire Diaries, Samantha Grecchi mentions Hannah Montana and Wizards of Waverly Place, Bree recalls Recess, and Jennifer mentions Degrassi as a favorite.
What do friends and family think about the show? Isaac shares that he expected jokes from friends, but they ended up liking it and a friend unexpectedly called to say so. Samantha says she has younger siblings who think she is the coolest big sister because they see her as Hannah Montana. Bree notes her mom loves the show because her character is positive. Lamar adds that his family is supportive, especially his mother who often visits set, and friends keep him grounded and humble.
What can fans expect from the end of season one? Alexandra says viewers will learn more about Emily and the reasons behind her sharp persona, hinting that the character may come across as more nuanced. Brennan expects more involvement from the guys in the drama and more featured dancing. Victoria describes the journey as emotional and moving. The Next Step continues to air on Family Channel with new episodes planned for the fall season, and a recap special featuring Riley keeps fans engaged on the schedule.
The Next Step continues on Family Channel with new adventures and performances on screen.