Is Performing on Ice the Same as Theatre?

Christina and Mark Performing to Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" (Photo by David Paterson)

Christina and Mark Performing to Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" (Photo by David Paterson)

People go to the theatre to see a play to be entertained. It may be a love of the arts or maybe a relaxing night out that inspires a trip to the theatre. There are many reasons to attend the theatre.

People also go to an on-ice performance to be entertained. Again it could be a relaxing night out or love of on-ice performances. However, it could be a love of sports as well that inspires a trip to an ice event.

I’ve performed both on the stage and on the ice. I was first an on-ice performer, and that made performing on stage an easy transition and very enjoyable, too. 

Here are 5 similarities that performing on the ice and performing on the stage have in common.

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March 10, 2011

Top Tip for Skating Performances and Competitions

Christina Chitwood and Mark Hanretty having fun performing to “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” from The Swing Kids at the 2009 European Championships. (Photo by Liz Chastney)

Christina Chitwood and Mark Hanretty having fun performing to “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön” from The Swing Kids at the 2009 European Championships. (Photo by Liz Chastney)

Competing and performing can be a nerve-racking experience. It can also be a wonderful and enjoyable experience. How you approach the competition can make all the difference in the world.

From my experiences at many different kinds of ice skating competitions from national championships to international senior B competitions to the European and World Championships, there is one thing I always used to perform my best.

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January 20, 2011

Performing under Pressure

During the next two months in preparation for the State Games in March, I’ll be talking about how to perform your best in competition. I always say that competing should be for fun. Regardless of the placement, you need to enjoy the experience. Skating your best should be more rewarding than a trophy or first place finish.

But, I understand it’s always nice to receive an award for a job well done! An article from Sports Coach talks about performing under pressure and where pressure comes from. You can use the information not only for competition, but also in other life events that bring pressure.

January 13, 2011