Stars on Ice
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Stars on Ice is a touring figure skating show produced by IMG. It was originally conceived in 1986 as a vehicle for IMG client Scott Hamilton, who had been released from his contract with Ice Capades. Hamilton now has retired from regular touring with the show, but remains actively involved as a producer. Other skaters who have been long-time regulars with the show include Rosalynn Sumners, Kristi Yamaguchi, Brian Orser, and Kurt Browning.
Stars on Ice was originally conceived as an ice show for adults, without the skating Smurfs or Disney cartoon characters typical of other commercial ice shows of the period. Another concept that has carried through the show from the beginning is that of a small cast of elite skaters who perform together in ensembles as well as solo numbers. In 1991, the Canadian branch of the show, Canadian Stars on Ice, began.
The tour started on a shoestring budget, playing only a few dates in small-town arenas. 1986-1987 was Stars on Ice's first year. Its cast included Scott Hamilton, Dorothy Hamill, Toller Cranston, Rosalynn Sumners, Brian Pockar, Lea Ann Miller & Bill Fauver, and Lisa Carey & Christ Harrison. In 1992, IMG bought out the rival "Skating" tour from Bill Graham Presents and merged its resources with that of Stars on Ice. Among the acquisitions from the "Skating" tour was Sandra Bezic, who took over as choreographer and director of Stars on Ice for several years. In recent years, Christopher Dean has taken over choreography duties for the show.
Stars on Ice primarily tours in the United States and Canada, although shows have also been staged in locations in Europe and Japan. The 2006-2007 tour will be its 21st season.
[edit] References
- Hamilton, Scott (1999). Landing It, ISBN 1-57566-466-6.
