Cast Members Dance Their Way from Disneyland to Broadway

Two former Disneyland Resort Cast Members, Koh Mochizuki and Jesse Swimm, followed the beat from their days as performers at Disneyland Resort to “stepping in time” in the North American Tour of the musical “Mary Poppins,” presented by Disney and Cameron Mackintosh. The experience they gained at the Resort led them to “practically perfect” careers.

Swimm began his career at the Disneyland Resort in 1996 and went on to perform in various roles. He currently serves as an understudy for multiple roles in the musical, including the male lead, Bert.

“While at Disneyland, I was part of Animazement, which was the closest thing to a big-budget musical that I had been a part of,” Swimm said. “We had the opportunity to work with best-in-the-business show directors and choreographers who had worked in professional theater, which gave me invaluable experience and opportunity.”

Mochizuki, who first performed at Disneyland as part of the original cast of Fantasmic!, plays ensemble roles in his now third show with Disney Theatrical Productions. During his time as a Cast Member, he also appeared in Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade and the Christmas Fantasy Parade.

Many Disneyland Resort performers, including Eden Espinosa who starred in the musical “Wicked,” have gone on to perform in Broadway shows and other professional theater, making the Resort an ideal place for young entertainers to acquire experience.

Short Bios:

KOH MOCHIZUKI (Ensemble) is excited for his third production with Disney Theatricals after Aida (B’way) and Disney’s On the Record (Nat’l tour).  Regional: Carnival (Kennedy Center), Julie Taymor’s Grendel (Lincoln Center).  TV: The Today Show, Saturday Night Live.  Love to family and David.

JESSE SWIMM (Ensemble) is proud to be a part of Mary Poppins.  Tours: Cameron Mackintosh’s My Fair Lady, Guys and Dolls, West Side Story, Grease.  Proud member AEA.  Thanks The Mine.  Thanks Mom and Dad for all their support!!!  Much love to Robin.