KayCee Stroh is best known for playing Martha Cox in the High School Musical movies. Yet, this "triple threat" not only has a new movie coming out, but has several other projects in the works. Despite her busy schedule, she took some time to sit down and answer some questions about what inspires her and what things she has learned that can help inspire Christian teens.
Q: When did you know you wanted to perform?
KayCee Stroh: That's ironic. I came home from dance class at 5 years old and my family was all sitting there. I confessed to them that it was my mission in life to be a triple threat. They said it was so cute. I think there are a few rare people in this world that know what they want to do so early.
Q: What advice do you have to others that want to follow their dreams?
KS: First of all, it's very easy to have dreams, but not take steps toward them. From a young age, you can either go with your friends to the mall or you can go to your dance class or acting class. Your hardest steps are the first ones. You have to dream big, but you have to take the steps. Make a list of your goals and the steps you have to take. Hold strong to whatever comes your way, and don't listen to whoever tells you you can't. A lot of times it's about imaginary earplugs.
Q: When you were in high school, what did you struggle with and how did you overcome it?
KS: The biggest thing with high school was the stupid cliques. I never really fit in. Which is very odd, because I was part of everything - drama club, cheerleading. The best advice I have for them is that it doesn't matter. It seems so big in the moment and who you're considered. Years later you see the people they hang out with and everyone's changed. Some of the nerdiest kids are brilliant, and my biggest thing is that it doesn't matter. I promise you.
Q: Moving on to your career, when you first got the part of Martha Cox, how did you react?
Well, when I finally got the part of Martha, I got the phone call while I was sitting in the car with my mom and sister. I said, "I got it. I got it." They had the jumping up and down moment, but I had initial shock. I think I was really in shock and overwhelmed - that kid in the candy store - when I realized that I really conquered. When I got on the set, I was really overwhelmed by all the big equipment and sets.
Q: Now that High School Musical is over, what memories will you cherish the most? What's been the best part of filming the movies?
Every day that I wake up I thank my lucky stars and thank my heavenly father for my chances. I have learned so much from the entertainment industry and my fellow actors, and I'm grateful that I'm taking so much away from it. The message from High School Musical is that it's great to be different and great to be myself. I am able to say, "This is what I am" and people can respect and love you.
Q: What projects do you have coming up?
Right now I am co-writing the music to put on an album. It's slow, but in the works. And I'm working on getting a dramatic role to show people I can do various types of acting. I can quirky and silly comedy, but I want to show myself as an actress. Ultimately, I would like to try some Broadway. Plus, I have a wedding coming up.
