If Semyon Kazantsev were to have an online dating profile he could rightfully type "Prince Charming" as his occupation. It's true: for the past five years, the Russian ice skater has played the romantic part with "Disney On Ice: 100 Years Of Magic."
Disney on Ice comes to the the Fiserv Forum Feb. 14-17. Tickets are still available here.
OnMilwaukee recently chatted with Kazantsev and asked him seven questions about his personal and professional life.
OnMilwaukee: How old were you when you started skating?
Semyon Kazantsev: I started skating when I was 4 years old. My father was a master pair skater and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I competed on the national level in Russia for a while before I started performing in shows.
What do you like most about your role as Prince Charming?
He is a royal character and one of the main characters of a classic story that so many people know and love.
How many hours a week do you practice ice skating?
Right now, even when touring, we practice six or more hours a day. We have to stay in very good shape. When I was competing, I practiced even more. I also have to lift weights and eat very healthy so I am physically strong and able to do everything my part requires: jumps, lifts and so on.
Have you ever been injured on the ice?
I have. People might not think this about ice dancing, but it’s a dangerous sport. I have had many injuries. Once I broke my nose during a triple twist. It was terrible.
What are your dreams for the future?
Someday I would like to try a different part with Disney On Ice. I think it would be very interesting. And maybe when I’m older – I’m only 24 – I would like to be a director of a show and coach others.
Do you have time for hobbies in your rigorous practice and work life?
I do. It’s very common on tour for us to take time for hobbies. I like to play guitar and read books. I really like cooking, which is something I can’t really do on the road, but I do when I am home.
Do you get homesick?
Oh, yes. I miss the usual stuff: food, friends and of course family. But I am having a lot of fun with this show.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
