5 Questions with Aaron Azcona, who portrays "Young Emilio" in NCT's "On Your Feet!"

North Carolina Theatre's 2021-22 season has been full of stories about music, its power, and the people who inspire it. And, its latest entry, On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, is a great addition to the line-up.

The show runs through Sunday, August 14, and tickets are selling fast. But, luckily for us, we got to spend some time with one of the show's youngest and most adorable stars: North Carolina Theatre Conservatory student, Aaron Azcona, who portrays "Young Emilio." Here's what he had to tell us.

What is your favorite thing about being a part of this production?

Aaron is just one part of a star-studded cast, and he definitely knows it. He says his favorite part has been working "with such amazing cast members." And, with a cast that includes such legends as Broadway star Dhanny Burgos (Emilio) and Iliana Garcia (Gloria), it's easy to see why Aaron feels the way he does. He tells us that all of his castmates are "dedicated to their craft and sing beautifully."

What's it like working with your sibling?

One unique feature of Aaron's experience is that he's working right alongside his sister, Alondra Azcona, who plays "Young Gloria." Fortunately, Aaron hasn't experienced any sibling rivalry on set. Instead, he says, "It's fun working with my siblings because we have good chemistry. We all cheer each other on and help one another with hard choreography. We are also very proud of each other."

What have you learned from this experience?

Being involved in a major product is a grueling but giving experience, even for seasoned adults. But, despite his young age, Aaron is taking the experience in stride and learning about the importance of teamwork along the way.  His main takeaway? He says, "I have learned that if everyone puts in the same amount of effort, the show will turn out beautifully."  Judging by what we've seen on the NCT stage in the past, we have no doubt we'll see great teamwork, great effort, and great beauty with this production.

What is your favorite part of the show?

On Your Feet! is packed with incredible music and eye-catching choreography. In fact, there's so much to love that Aaron had a hard time picking just one favorite part. He praised the second act dance number for "Wrapped," citing that "the choreo is fun and you have to flow like the wind." He also loves the song "Reach" because of the beautiful harmony.

What's been the most fun thing about rehearsing for this production?

With all the hard work aside, we're happy to hear that Aaron is still having a blast onstage and in rehearsals. His absolute favorite part? He says he loves being "on stage with my mom and siblings. I will never forget this experience." Something tells us we won't either!

Our time with Aaron got us all amped to see the show, and you can too! Tickets are available here. Or, you can call the box office at (919) 831-6941 or email boxoffice@nctheatre.com.