By:Karen Bloom
The Disney On Ice folks have combined some of their most popular films - Disney's Lilo & Stitch, The Little Mermaid, 101 Dalmations, and Peter Pan - into what is described as "an action packed tour of the imagination to four exciting destinations." Micky and Minnie are the tour guides for this special trip. "It's an extraordinary show, an adventure through imagination and a family vacation all rolled into one," said producer Kenneth Feld. "You really get a sense you are traveling right alongside Mickey, Minnie and their friends. At the end, without ever leaving your seat, you feel like you've toured London, taken a dip in the sea and enjoyed a Hawaiian luau."Each scene brings the story an "unusual," new location, including a London cityscape and a colorful tropical island. Audiences experience the madcap mischief of Peter Pan's Lost Boys, an upbeat hula with Lilo and friends, and a reggae-spiced romp led by The Little Mermaid's Sebastian."Not only is this show a journey to many Disney destinations, it is a journey of emotions," declared director Jerry Bilik. "From the high-flying, daring adventures of Peter Pan to the antics of Sebastian, from the warmth of 101 Dalmation puppies to the relationship between Lilo and Stitch, you'll experience excitement, humor, friendship, and much more."Bililk, who has been involved with the Disney on Ice shows, since 1979, brings together an international team of award-winning skaters, high energy choreography and a musical score featuring a virtual "rock concert" of hits that have appeal for all ages. The show combines familiar, beloved tunes from Peter Pan, The Little Mermaid and 101 Dalmations, with new ones from Lilo and Stitch, along with some feel-good classic rock 'n roll everyone will recognize.The music sets the tone for the varieddestination of this traveling adventure. Each has its own mood, enhanced by the late Academy Award-winning scenic designer Robert L. Smith. The foggy London skyline that can be seen from the Darling children's window soon changes to a mysterious forest where Peter Pan and the Lost Boys live in their treehouse, while Lilo and Stitch cavort surfside surrounded by tropical sunlight and foliage. The skating truly shines in this particular show. The unconventional mix of music inspired choreographer Cindy Stuart to incorporate original moves, like a boisterous pirate line dance and a fanned-out precision number for Pongo and Perdita's giant dalmation litter. There's also classic skating elements in a surf duet, Cruella De Vil's slithery solo and Prince Eric and Ariel's pas de deux.All these elements blend together for perfomance that should enthrall the skating lovers of all ages. "This show is fresh and appealing to the audience, because it's all new," said Stuart. It has a great balance of music, energy, fun, and familiar faces. It's great all around."
Disney On Ice Presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey
Tuesday through Sunday, Jan. 18-23. Tickets: $15-$60 (rinkside). Available at Nassau Coliseum Box Office or through Ticketmaster (631) 888-9000. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale.
