Dougie: Gday Steven, so not long now before you head Down Under to star in the latest version of Down Under the Kilt; Reel Men Do Dance! How you feeling about the trip?

Steven MacRae: I’m getting very excited about the trip. I’ve never been to Australia before. It has always been right up at the top of my list of places in the world I would most like to visit. Reel Men Do Dance is looking to be a great show and I could not be happier to be a part of it.

DM: I was lucky to meet you in Las Vegas back in 2006 when we were honoured alongside many of the great Male highland dancers. Reel Men Do Dance brings together many of those dancers who were honoured, have you ever danced in such a group?

SM: The male Highland dancer luncheon in Las Vegas three years ago was probably my proudest non-competitive moment. It was an honor being included with some of the best dancers, past and present. As far as Reel Men Do Dance, I’ve never danced with such an impressive group of guys on the same stage. I’ve gotten to know most of these guys pretty well over the years and it will be pretty cool coming together as a team for this show.

DM: What's it like to train with the Collins brothers and with legendary teacher Angus McKenzie?

SM: It has been an honor and a privilege working with Angus for the past five and a half years. He really brings a lot of energy and support to his classes. Dancing with Cameron and Vincent in the studio is an added bonus. They are both very strong, powerful dancers. The three of us are always trying to out hicut or out leap each other. It brings an extra boost to class, and often improves our dancing.

DM: And you first started with your mum, and I believe your sister also dances; it's definitely in the family then?

SM: Yes, Highland dancing is a big thing in my family. I owe a lot to my mom, Robin (Hegge) MacRae. I don’t remember it, but apparently she gave me my first lesson when I was two years old. Without her continued support I don’t think I would still be dancing now (twenty years later). My plan is to be involved in Highland for the rest of my life, as both a teacher and possibly a judge. I have two younger sisters, Shannon (19) and Alyssa (15), who no longer compete, but were successful Premier dancers when they did. I also have three cousins that danced: Kendra (Kostrash) Roettjer, Kelsey Hegge, and Kari Hegge. Kendra was a 9-time rep at the U.S.I.R., and is still very active in the U.S. Highland community.

DM: Is Mum planning to see the show?

SM: Unfortunately, my mom will not be making the trip “Down Under”, but I’m sure she will be the first to order the DVD.

DM: She must be so proud to see the many, many achievements in your long career - what stands out for you as a highlight?

SM:I am always setting personal goals for myself. When I was 11 years old, an old perpetual trophy was found and set to be awarded to the top male dancer of the year for our area. I was in second all year until the last competition when I pulled ahead and won. I have won it many times since then, but will always remember that first time. Other goals I’ve accomplished have been qualifying for my first USIR at age 19, winning my first Championship at age 20, and my first placements in Scottish Championships at 21.

DM: And you must have been inspired along the way - who's been your greatest inspiration?

SM: I have definitely been inspired by my teachers Robin MacRae and Angus MacKenzie. Those are no-brainers. From a dancing standpoint there are a few I would name. My cousin Kendra Kostresh was always at the top in the Northwestern United States. Watching her since I was little, she really gave me something to strive for. The first male dancer I saw dance live that really sticks out in my mind is Peter Archibald. I also got to compete against Colleen Rintamaki in 2005 when she won her 10th and final World Championship. I’m sure she inspires everyone!

DM: So to the show, without giving away too much, what's planned for your piece?

SM: In choreography competition there are always guidelines and restrictions. In this situation I will be able to do more of what I want, without the strict rules getting in the way. I really don’t want to give away any hints, but I can tell you I am very excited about it.

DM: Are you nervous thinking about how many people in the dancing world will be seeing your performance?

SM: I didn’t really think about it much until now. I’m a little nervous, but more excited than anything. It should be a lot of fun.

DM: And I have to ask on behalf of all your young male fans - any words of advice?

SM: Keep dancing! You will thank yourself in the end. I had my doubts early on, but am glad I kept at it. It’s a great way to stay active and in shape. I’ve met a lot of my best friends through Highland dancing. It’s a bonus that about 99% of the other dancers are girls. :-) The number of guys in Highland is growing though, and it’s a pretty cool group of guys to be in.

DM: Finally Steven, you've got a big few months coming up with the United States Inter-Regional Championships in Nashville, then onto Australia for Down Under the Kilt; Reel Men Do Dance - what's on the cards after that?

SM: After Australia I’m going home for about a week and a half. Them I’m off to Scotland for three weeks of competition, finishing my season with the Worlds at Cowal. I remember a few years ago you competed in Championships in Scotland, Australia, Canada, and the U.S. I’m going to get to do that this year. I’m very excited about it.

DM: Well thanks so much for your time, can't wait to see you in July.

SM: Thank you! I’m looking forward to it.