Eighteen-year-old California native Gabe De Guzman started receiving national attention for his talent as a tween, becoming a Hall of Fame Junior Solo National Champion at the tender age of ten. In 2012, De Guzman received his big break as a dancer on Disney’s Shake it Up, which led him to book performances with Will Smith (at the Kids Choice Awards) and Carly Rose Sonenclar (at the X Factor finale). Five years later, after having joined popular web dance groups immaBEAST and Boy Squad, De Guzman was cast as a Mouseketeer on Disney’s Club Mickey Mouse, a spinoff of the 20th-century variety show The Mickey Mouse Club that starred Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears. Below, the dancer discusses the career-changing roles Disney bestowed upon him.

When did you first develop your passion for dance?

I first developed my passion for dance at age five, and it’s quite an interesting story as to how it occurred. I had asthma and was looking for a way to stay active indoors because trying out sports on the fields had me coming home sick every day. My sisters and parents persuaded me to try out dance, and thank goodness, I agreed.

What’s your favorite style of dance and why?

My favorite style is hip-hop because it makes me turn into a monster on the dance floor. Something about the vibes and energy brings out a character I wouldn’t consider as human.

What was your favorite part about being in the cast of Shake It Up?

Dancing on Shake It Up was so fun and one of the best jobs I’ve had. It was my favorite show, so I was stoked to go on set and do what I love to do. It was so much fun getting to hang out with the cast, and I even had some acting scenes in there!

What was the audition process like for Club Mickey Mouse?

Our audition for Club Mickey Mouse was unlike any other. They didn’t set any guidelines or instructions for the call. It was strictly just getting to know us, what we love to do, and what makes us unique.

Where were you and how did you react when you found out you were cast on Club Mickey Mouse?

I was sitting at home watching Disney Channel on my couch when my mom came bursting through the door to tell me the best news I’ve ever received. I was in complete shock because I’ve been a Disney kid since I was born, and to think I was now a part of the company was so insane.

Who are some of your favorite cast members and why?

I love the whole squad, but it was really cool being with Will [Simmons] and Leanne [Tessa]. Before CMM came along, those two were my best friends and still are to this day. The fact that we came to set every day, getting to hang out and just share our passions, made it that much better.

Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments you can share?

One great thing about this generation of Mickey Mouse Club is that we don’t just show the final product. We actually take you on the journey behind the scenes of writing our own songs, choreographing dance videos, the concepts of these projects...you name it. But some of my favorite behind-the-scenes moments were getting to work on stage at the Disney Studios where the original MMC was filmed and getting a surprise visit on set from the boss man himself: Mickey Mouse.

Do you find it difficult to live up to the legacy of the original Mickey Mouse Club?

It was honestly a little nerve-wracking at the start knowing I was stepping into the same shoes as legends such as Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and Ryan Gosling. But I knew that the only way I could live up to that legacy was being the best version of me that I could possibly be.

What are your future plans?

Living in Los Angeles, attending college, and continuing my life as a dancer, choreographer, and an entrepreneur.