Disney on Ice brings its 100 Years of Magic show to the MEN Arena

Oct 7 2010 Chester Chronicle

THE on-ice work of Emmy Award-winning and Olympic choreographer Sarah Kawahara takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through classic Disney stories in Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic.

Produced by Feld Entertainment, this show highlights Kawahara’s clever, innovative and evocative style, which ranges from romantic and playful to dramatic and heroic.

Kawahara, who won two Emmy Awards for the skating segments in the 2002 Winter Olympic Opening Ceremonies and Scott Hamilton: Upside Down, defines choreography for figure skating as “the fusion of music with interpretive movement and the technical elements of skating.

“It is more than just skating. You define what you want to say and how you want to say it.”

Growing up in Montreal, Canada, Kawahara expressed her creativity through piano, violin, ballet, jazz, drama and figure skating.

She feels it is vital to meld the basic components of costume, set, lights, music and skating so they come together seamlessly as a whole experience.

She is also keenly observant and nurturing when working with her impressive roster of international figure skaters.

“I really work off the talent of the individual skater to tap into the inner sense of who they are and their own body rhythms,” she explains.

“I blend what I have with their strengths and arrive at a new and different place for both of us.”

Kawahara is known for incorporating set pieces into her choreography. “I like to have skaters go in or through the props rather than just working in front of a set. It gives the production more dimension,” she explains.

Speaking about the broad spectrum of her art, Kawahara said: “It’s always interesting to try and create new shapes within the skating language. You can only do that through experimentation.

“You must grab and hold the attention of the audience – take them with you on a fantastic journey.”

Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years Of Magic is at the MEN Arena, Manchester, from October 13-17. Tickets are priced between £12.50–£34.50. Visit 0844 847 8000 or visit www.men-arena.com or www.disneyonice.co.uk.