Disney Star
Before their highly anticipated dance class, Disney stars Kylie Cantrall and Ruby Rose Turner, who star in "Descendants: The Rise of Red," shared their excitement with us. Outside Millennium Dance Complex in Studio City, California, a diverse group of kids and teens, decked out in baggy pants and colorful athleisure, eagerly awaited the session.
Approximately 150 participants, spanning from 5-year-olds to adults in their 30s, including myself, had signed up for an exclusive dance experience with the stars of the new Disney movie, which premiered on Disney+ on July 12.
Ahead of the class, a glance at the studio's Instagram reassured me that my attire—loose black pants with red stripes, a red tank sports bra, and sneakers—would suffice. It had been years since I last attended a professional dance class, let alone at such an iconic Los Angeles studio.
As a handful of reporters and I waited in the complex's hall, we pumped each other up. What we expected to be a press-only event turned out to be a special class open to aspiring dancers, professionals, and fans alike. Disney Channel movies are renowned for their catchy soundtracks and infectious choreography, with songs like “We’re All In This Together” and franchises like "The Cheetah Girls" inspiring generations.
Instead of watching from home, I found myself learning from the pros, an opportunity to live out a teenage dream in a more physically demanding way than anticipated.
Despite having taken dance classes in the past, picking up choreography wasn’t my forte.
However, as Kylie Cantrall and Ruby Rose Turner reassured me, perfection wasn’t the goal; enjoying the experience was. It was a moment that brought back memories of my Disney Channel-loving tween years.
Preparing for "Descendants"
Before entering the vibrant red studio adorned with mirrors, I spoke with Kylie Cantrall and Ruby Rose Turner about their roles in "Rise of Red."
Their infectious enthusiasm filled the space as they reminisced about their early days training at Millennium. Sitting cross-legged on the studio's floor, they exuded a camaraderie honed through years of friendship and shared dreams.
“We grew up taking classes at the original Millennium in North Hollywood, and this brings back so many memories for me and Ruby,” said Cantrall, who plays Red, the daughter of the Queen of Hearts. “Dance brought us together, and now teaching this choreography from the movie to these kids—it feels surreal.”
“And to be sharing this with our fans,” Turner added, completing Cantrall's thought, “It’s truly incredible!”
In "Descendants: The Rise of Red," a new generation of stars takes center stage. When the Queen of Hearts initiates a rebellion in Auradon, rebellious Red and Cinderella's daughter Chloe (Malia Baker) travel back in time to alter history and prevent her rise to power. They uncover a teenage Queen of Hearts, Bridget, portrayed by Turner, whose origins reveal a stark contrast to her villainous future.
Brandy revisits her role from the 1997 "Cinderella," now alongside Paolo Montalban as King Charming.
Securing roles like Red and Bridget has been a lifelong dream for Cantrall and Turner, both of whom started dancing at a young age.
“The ‘Descendants’ fanbase is incredibly loyal,” noted Cantrall, reflecting on the franchise's popularity. “We’re excited to bring our own twist to this new chapter, blending familiar elements with fresh characters like Bridget - it’s what makes this film so special.”
Their preparation for "Descendants" involved an intensive month-long boot camp, Turner revealed, which included rigorous dance rehearsals and even sword training for Cantrall.
“For us, combining dance and singing in a project like this feels like the culmination of years of hard work,” Cantrall shared, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
Turner nodded in agreement, adding with a smile, “Absolutely! It’s a dream job.”
With their background in dance and performance, Cantrall and Turner embraced the opportunity to merge their skills in a project that celebrates both old and new aspects of the beloved "Descendants" series.
Know more details: TODAY
