Mickey Mouse, Minnie, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Mulan, Timon, Pumba and all of the beloved Disney princesses are skating into Chicago.
This year's Disney On Ice show celebrates "Walt Disney's 100 Years of Magic," featuring its largest cast of characters ever.
"This year's production is very unique. It isn't just a one-story theme. The show is a collection of the best moments of lots of stories," says Cory Obst, performance director for Disney on Ice.
"When you combine the great Disney stories, the wonderful music and the spectacular movement of ice skating, you truly have a magical experience."
Mickey and his pal Jiminy Cricket host the celebration.
The production is choreographed by Sarah Kawahara, who has worked with Olympic medalist and world champion Michelle Kwan and choreographed the skating segment in the Opening Ceremonies at the 2002 Olympics.
Visual sensations appear from start to finish. Broadway scenic designer David Potts has created floats and more than 100 scenic elements. The infamous Monstro, the whale from Pinocchio, also makes an appearance. The 36-foot-long creature is 12 feet wide and has a series of 14 custom-made arches that allow it to slither across the ice floor. Geppetto's Workshop comes to life with 20 animated toys on the shelves. In the "It's a Small World" segment, motorized floats represent Asia, Europe, Russia, Africa and Central America. The floats are adorned with more than 33 intricately detailed moving dolls and turn into a moving parade of light.
By Sara Fiedelholtz
