Going to an ice show is always a thrill. Here are some ideas to help you enjoy special skating performances to their fullest.
Choosing a Show
There are several touring companies that might be coming to an area near you. Stars on Ice, Champions on Ice, and Disney on Ice are probably familiar names. Others, such as Holiday on Ice, Soul Spectacular on Ice, Divas on Ice, and the Ice Theatre of New York, should be experienced first-hand as well.
Getting Tickets
Keep your eyes open for television and magazine advertisements from local entertainment venues. Check sales outlets like ticketmaster.com for prices and locations where your favorite skaters will be appearing. Purchase tickets early for best seating choices. If a better seat is only a few dollars more, it probably will be worth it.
What to Wear
While there is usually no set dress code for attending these events, looking great will make your experience even more special. Out of respect for the performers and other audience members, it's perfectly reasonable to flaunt your night-on-the-town by donning attire that is both classy and comfortable. Go for a look that is fashionably tasteful and sophisticated yet practical for walking across a vast parking lot and climbing flights of arena stairs.
Before You Go
You and your loved ones can appreciate a show more if you understand what you are about to see. Time permitting, do some research to find out about the performers who will be there, the choreographer or artistic director, and the music. If you are seeing a show based on a play such as [i]The Nutcracker[/i] or [i]Romeo and Juliet[/i], or a movie like [b]Finding Nemo[/b], try to read or watch it ahead of time. This will help you follow the storyline as it is transposed on the ice.
At the Arena
Arrive early so that heavy traffic and full parking lots don't add stress to your evening. Create an environment that will allow your experience to be relaxing, entertaining, and inspirational. Find your seat early, and take in the atmosphere. Keep a lookout for skating stars peeking out from backstage or visiting with VIPs at rink level. Take this time to read the program notes and get to know the skaters by their pictures, bios and quotes.
Watch, Listen, Anticipate
Remember to observe proper etiquette by observing silence during the show, not using cell phones or cameras of any kind during the performance, and entering or exiting only between acts. If sitting still for long periods of time is not your strong suit, do something physical before you go to the show. This is a great tip if you will be attending with children, as fidgeting tends to bother people seated around you. Also, use intermission wisely as a time to stretch and use the restroom.
Music and Movements
When the house lights go down and the spotlight hits the ice, concentrate on the scenery, the music and the skaters' movements. Ask yourself how the movements relate to the music, and how they combine to enhance the mood or further the plot. Allow the lighting and costumes to complete the illusion. You'll leave the performance entertained, amazed, and anxious to share about your experience.
