By Karen Bloom
A host of new and old Disney friends including the beloved Princesses relive many beloved Disney moments in this spectacular production that pays to homage to a century of unforgettable Disney stories, beginning Tuesday.
Called ³Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic,² this fanfare production is described as a commemorative celebration. It features a sing-along score of the beloved Disney music, show stopping choreography, elaborate sets and beautiful costumes (147 in all). The kids will get to see most of their favorite Disney stars at this two hour show, which runs for six days, Jan. 16-21.
With Mickey and Minnie as their hosts, audiences enjoy vignettes of the many character¹s stories. This involves breathtaking pairs skating, moving solos and elaborate production numbers choreographed by Emmy award-winner Sarah Kawahara. Kawahara previously worked with skater Michelle Kwan and choreographed the
skating segment in the Opening Ceremonies at the 2002 Olympics.
³It¹s a show that offers people of all ages a chance to experience all those wonderful Disney moments,² Kawahara said. ³There¹s lots of high level skating of excellent caliber that brings together an international cast of skaters.²
One of the highlights is the showstopper ³It¹s a Small World,² based on the theme park attraction. This number features skaters representing 18 countries alongside motorized floats. ³It¹s one of those Œooh and aah¹ moments,² Kawahara said. With the twinkling lights, costumes, music and, of course, the skating this number enthralls the audience as it concludes the first act.
Another audience favorite is the precision line of genies, 24 in all, who are part of the Aladdin segment. Think Rockettes on ice. ³It¹s a pretty exciting moment,² said Kawahara.
This being a Disney show, you¹ll find many of the girls in the audience dressed up as their favorite Disney princesses. ³It always adds a cute, charming aspect to the show,² Kawahara noted. The girls in attendance also give an enthusiastic reception to the Mulan segment, another stand-out production number.
Complementing Kawahara¹s skate sequences are the memorable tunes that bring the wonderful memories of Disney to life on ice. The lavish set designs create the illusion that showcases Disney¹s extraordinary moments from both the beloved ³It¹s a Small World² and animated features such as The Lion King, Mulan, Pinocchio, and Aladdin.
Scenic Designer David Potts, who has worked on numerous Broadway productions, creates a taste of theater on ice. Skaters weave around and enliven the ³It¹s a Small World² sequence amidst sparkling floats that turn into a radiant light parade; a blanket of snow and an avalanche fall as Mulan battles the Huns; and a giant present is opened to reveal Buzz Lightyear as he¹s first introduced to that pull-string cowboy, Woody and his pal Jessie.
³The show is quite a magical, theatrical experience,² Kawahara said. ³It¹s something that the parents can enjoy as much as their kids.²
³Walt Disney¹s 100 Years of Magic²
Tuesday through Sunday, Jan. 16-21. Tickets: $15-$70 (rinkside). Available at Nassau Coliseum Box Office or through Ticketmaster at
(631) 888-9000. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale.
