Leading up to the nine-day Hit the Floor Tour across Canada, Brittany Raymond, best known for portraying Riley on The Next Step, sat down for an in‑depth chat about the journey ahead. The dancer and actor shared what excites her most about returning to the stage and recalled a memorable moment with a devoted fan.
The interviewer asks how it feels to meet fans face to face.
Fans spot Brittany on the street and their reactions are electric. Seeing their excitement in real time makes the moment feel personal and uplifting for her.
Asked which dance stands out most this season, Brittany says Stand Up is the standout because everyone participates and a long period of rehearsal has gone into it.
The routine shines because of the collaboration and the extensive preparation, promising a strong showcase on stage.
Describe the oddest fan encounter you have ever had.
In a mall moment, a fan recognized her, dropped her bags, and cried while her mother looked on in shock. Brittany felt a little nervous but stayed calm, posing for photos as the fan trembled with emotion.
What is the most exciting aspect of the tour?
Brittany is eager to perform with the group again and to greet fans from across Canada, savoring the chance to share the stage with them once more.
Does the family on tour act as a foster family when everyone is away from home?
The bond runs deep. After some time apart, the group slides back into strong friendships and the familiarity feels like a form of family on the road.
What was the best part about filming season 2?
Season two brought extra confidence as everyone carried years of experience, took a short break, and then rejoined the process. The on‑camera and off‑camera dynamics felt more comfortable, translating to stronger performances.
How has your character evolved since the show started?
Riley grows from leaning on others to discovering independence. With guidance from James, she gains self‑reliance, stops stressing over small details, and learns to enjoy life, making her own decisions and growing into a more autonomous person.
Is it hard to get into the serious moments like when Emily tells Riley they are no longer sisters?
It can be challenging, but preparation helps. The key is to stay present and let the other actors’ reactions guide the moment, so pre‑scene work and trust with co‑stars are essential.
How do you handle the giggles?
Staying focused and fully in the scene keeps distractions at bay and helps maintain the mood of the moment.
What would you like to happen for your character in upcoming seasons?
That’s a tough question. A regional win would be great, and seeing Riley fully become her own person while maturing into the woman she is growing up to be would be ideal.
Because it is improv, do you get a say?
It depends on the scene. A script and a defined scenario set the framework, but the writers decide what they want. The performers contribute by bringing their reactions within those boundaries.
What’s next for you? Any plans for fall?
Brittany plans to push deeper into acting, taking lessons with a private coach and meeting more casting directors while continuing to train in dance, which remains her true passion and lifelong connection to the stage.
Thank you, Brittany! Best of luck on the tour.
Readers can find HIT THE FLOOR TOUR details on the schedule, and they should remember to watch The Next Step, which airs Fridays at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Family Channel.