Up Close & Personal with Luke Cassar, London-based Dancer/Actor/Singer for the Royal Caribbean

Luke Cassar has been a part popular Broadway production Mamma Mia, his first musical theatre gig.

1) As someone deeply entrenched in both the performing arts and fitness industries, how do you balance the demands of maintaining peak physical fitness with the rigorous schedule of rehearsals and performances, especially while onboard Royal Caribbean ships?

I plan my week in advance and maintain a program that helps me create a well-structured and balanced schedule, filled with time dedicated to both hard work and rest. Our jobs are truly demanding and require high energy when executed, which is why I work towards my fitness outside of performing to reflect the rigorous requirements that performing has on my stamina. I try to keep myself as sharp as possible by always challenging myself and making sure I maintain my growth and regime when onboard. 

2. With your extensive experience performing in popular Broadway productions like We Will Rock You, Saturday Night Fever, and Mamma Mia, how do you prepare mentally and physically for each new role or production?

Each show and role offers different and unique demands. These three shows are so diverse - some being more physically challenging, while others require more vocal attention. Being an understudy also requires more focus due to the uncertainty of each performance; you never know what track you might be in for each show. This keeps it all very exciting but also means that I have to be ready to perform at all times. My years of training have prepared me for performing in the professional world and has taught me on how to prepare for the various roles and productions I have been fortunate to take part in.
I like to break down each character, script, and song to it's core, to be able to make each learning step more personal and meaningful to my process. 

3. What role do healthy eating habits play in your daily routine, particularly when navigating the array of culinary options available onboard Royal Caribbean ships?

Our bodies are our biggest tool for our careers, so it is very important to fuel our bodies with healthy foods that provide us with the proper nutrition and adequate sustenance that is needed to perform in such high energy, vocally demanding, and fast-paced shows. I like to begin my show days with a workout to ensure that my body is warmed up and prepared for the rest of the day, then enjoy a healthy lunch before I take some time to rest before each show. I'll have a coffee or fresh juice and walk around the jogging track while either listening to a podcast, or going over any performance notes that I’ve been given. It is important to me during a contract to have three well-balanced meals a day and stay hydrated at all times. 

4. As a certified personal trainer, how do you incorporate your knowledge of fitness and exercise into your own performance regimen and that of your fellow cast members?

I am so thankful for the knowledge I’ve gained through personal training. On a daily basis, I encounter situations where dance and fitness come hand in hand. I have found that fellow cast members often ask me for advice regarding fitness or injury prevention and recovery. I also train cast members seeking more one-on-one fitness regimens outside our weekly dance and aerial classes. Throughout my years with Royal Caribbean, I have also grown a passion for the Aerial Arts, leading to my qualification in teaching which has aided my fitness knowledge and experience to coincide with my Performing Career.

5. How do you motivate yourself and others to stay disciplined with fitness goals amidst the excitement and distractions of life onboard a cruise ship?

The truth is, that it ultimately makes me feel better, which leads me to my commitment everyday. The release of endorphins is scientifically proven to provide excitement and happiness in one's life. Working out and focusing on my health has helped me stay on top of my performing career, enrich my personal life, and also explore future endeavors by focusing on the things that matter the most. Staying disciplined with my weekly plans while also balancing the social and traveling aspects of our exciting careers has helped me stay motivated. 

Motivating others and helping them reach their personal goals gives me great joy. When I feel my best, I can help others achieve theirs.

6. With the demanding physicality of live performances, how do you prevent injuries and ensure longevity in your career as a performer?

Although injuries can be unpredictable, I do my best to stay on top of the demands that a show requires from me as a performer by doing a proper thorough warm-up, and a cool down after shows to take precautionary steps towards injury prevention. I do think that my experience in the fitness world has given me the ability to identify the signs of a potential injury sooner on myself and help fellow cast members when necessary. 

7. Reflecting on your experiences with Royal Caribbean, how has performing onboard their ships influenced your perspective on health, fitness, and overall well-being?

Royal Caribbean has opened so many new doors for me, not only in the different types of shows that I've been able to perform in, but also allowing me to develop new skills both in leadership and obtaining physical skills like Aerial. As performers, we never know what our next gig may be or what it may look like, so being prepared and in peak physical condition has helped me guarantee the best opportunities and chances for my success. Life at sea- although sometimes challenging- has provided so many beneficial attributes such as fitness amenities, extensive food options, and world-wide travel opportunities.  

Luke can be reached on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LukeCassarPersonalTrainer/

About Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International is a cruise line brand founded in 1968 in Norway and is currently owned by Royal Caribbean Group. It is the world's second-largest cruise line by passenger count and the largest by revenue. As of January 2024, the line operates 28 ships and has three additional ships on order.

Royal Caribbean is known for its large and innovative ships, which often feature a variety of amenities and activities, such as rock climbing walls, zip lines, ice skating rinks, and water slides. The cruise line also offers a variety of dining options, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants.

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/