Interview with HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL's Tobias Turley

Troy Bolton is such an iconic character, particularly for audiences who grew up with the films. What was it like stepping into a character that people know so well and how did you approach making the role your own?

It was kind of daunting at first, because it is such an iconic role and I really wanted to do it justice. I have put in some of the classic Troy mannerisms, and kept his boyish charm, with lots of my own ideas so it’s definitely not a carbon copy. This character came quite naturally to me, I was a very sporty kid and have always loved performing as well so growing up I did feel like a little Troy Bolton.

How much did you revisit Zac Efron's performance when preparing for the role?

Very little if I'm honest, I watched the movie once a couple months before starting rehearsals and then came up with my own interpretation, based on how my version of Troy would react and behave.

What’s been your favourite thing about playing Troy? Is there a particular moment in his story that you relate to personally?

It’s hard to choose a singular moment, he has so many amazing bits within the show. Doing ‘Getcha Head In The Game’ is always a highlight for me.

This production offers a new take on a story people know so well. What do you think will surprise audiences most about seeing High School Musical reimagined for the stage and what are you most excited for them to experience?

I think the grandeur of our production is what will surprise people the most. It really is full out in every way possible. Audiences are absolutely loving what a spectacle this show is.

The production puts audiences closer to the action through its immersive staging. Does that change how you perform, particularly during the basketball sequences and larger ensemble numbers?

Yes, it really does. Generally in a proscenium arch theatre you only have to think about performing out towards the audience, however in our theatre we have nearly 300 people sat on stage. Lots of moments throughout the show are carefully directed so no matter where you are sat, you get a great viewing experience.

What’s been your favourite musical number to perform in the show?

Like I mentioned earlier, ‘Getcha Head In The Game’ is so much fun. The choreography with the basketballs is so exciting and the audiences absolutely love that song. ‘Status Quo’ is also another brilliant one. Every single member of our cast is on stage dancing their hearts out. It’s awesome to be a part of.

Winning Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream gave you a very public introduction to musical theatre audiences. How has your experience of the industry changed since then?

Winning the TV show changed my life entirely, it has given me this platform which I am so grateful for. I have connected with so many wonderful people and I have been able to do so many things that I never dreamed possible. It is still very surreal to me and a day doesn’t pass where I am not grateful for all of that.

Having played Sky in Mamma Mia!, what have you learned from that experience that you've been able to bring to Troy?

Mamma Mia taught me so much, it helped me hone my leading man qualities, and taught me how to develop chemistry with a costar. That has been really helpful for this production.

Just for fun, if you could play any other character in High School Musical, who would you want to play?

I think it would be hilarious to play Miss Darbus, she is such a iconic character and she has so many funny moments throughout the show.

High School Musical is running until 3 January 2027. Check out our review round-up for High School Musical to see what critics think of the show.

High School Musical Tickets