How to Create the Powerful Impact of Ice Shows

by | Oct 5, 2024 | Conversations

The Impact of Ice Shows

Are ice shows just something to do once the competition season is over? What is the impact on audiences of non-skaters? And what really goes into producing one of these events? I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Brad Vigorito—coach, choreographer, show producer, and former competitive skater—to discuss the unique influence of ice shows on both audiences and skaters alike.

The Art and Sport of Ice Shows

One of the first topics we explored was the duality of ice shows as both art and sport. According to Brad, ice shows have the power to expose the beauty of skating to new audiences. “It exposes our sport in a way that highlights not just the athleticism but the artistry,” Brad shared. “You see skaters performing their hearts out, not just for judges but for the joy of entertaining a crowd. It’s very different from competition.”

Unlike competitions, where the focus is on technical elements and scores, ice shows give skaters the freedom to express themselves artistically. Audiences are treated to a range of emotions—from comedic acts to powerful, emotional performances. And as Brad emphasized, “Judges are audience members too, but audiences pay to be entertained. They want to feel something.”

Finding Growth Through Shows

For skaters, ice shows provide a unique opportunity for growth. Brad explained that shows allow athletes to explore new styles, step out of their comfort zones, and experiment without the pressures of competition. “When I was competing, we had our season from May to January. After that, I always had shows lined up, and I used them as a way to test new music or choreography,” he said. “Some of my best programs started out as show performances.”

Brad encouraged skaters to take full advantage of these opportunities. “Don’t just see shows as a way to make money or fill time. Push yourself to try something different. You never know where it will lead.”

Social Media and Show Selection

As the conversation shifted toward how skaters are chosen for shows, Brad highlighted the importance of self-promotion in today’s digital age. “Social media has become a huge tool for skaters. You need to be your own advocate,” he explained. In his days as a skater, it was mostly up to coaches to promote their higher-level athletes, but now skaters can directly connect with producers and fans through platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Brad also touched on the criteria used for selecting skaters for some shows, such as the Frog Pond events in Boston, which he co-produces. “We use a black-and-white system based on competition results, but as a producer, I also want to see that the skaters take the show seriously. It’s my job and reputation on the line.”

The Impact of Ice Shows

The Magic of Performing Live

One of the most compelling parts of the interview was when Brad discussed the energy of performing live, particularly in outdoor settings like the Frog Pond. “There’s nothing like it,” he said. “I remember skating in outdoor shows, and it was snowing so heavily we could barely see each other. But looking up at the sky, performing under those conditions—it’s magical.”

However, outdoor performances come with their own set of challenges, from unpredictable weather to the pressure of performing after being off the ice for hours. Brad explained that in shows, skaters often don’t have the luxury of traditional warm-ups, and they need to be ready to perform in less-than-ideal conditions. “You don’t see skaters doing their hardest tricks in shows because they’ve been off the ice for hours. It’s about staying professional, keeping warm, and delivering an entertaining performance.”

The Challenges of Producing a Show

As a producer, Brad has seen firsthand how much work goes into creating a successful ice show. From structuring the program to dealing with unpredictable factors like weather or budget cuts, producing a show is no easy task. “You want to catch the audience’s attention at the beginning and end, with strong opening and closing numbers,” Brad explained. “But you also have to balance high-energy group performances with solo acts and ensure everyone skating feels valued.”

Brad also emphasized the importance of accessibility in choreography. “You want to create something that everyone can participate in, whether they’re a beginner or an advanced skater. Simple moves, when done well, can be incredibly powerful.”

The Future of Ice Shows

As our conversation came to a close, Brad reflected on the future of ice shows and the challenges they face, particularly in the post-pandemic world. Audience engagement has been difficult to regain, and issues like music copyrights have made it harder to livestream or share performances. “We’re so fortunate to have social media and YouTube, but it’s still harder every year to get the sport the exposure it deserves,” he said.

For Brad, the beauty of ice shows lies in their ability to make skating accessible and relatable to everyone, not just elite competitors. “Shows are the one place where audiences can connect with the skater, feel something, and be amazed. That’s why I’m passionate about keeping this tradition alive.”

Ice shows are more than just performances—they’re a platform for skaters to grow, for audiences to fall in love with the sport, and for the magic of skating to be shared with the world. As Brad Vigorito aptly put it, “It’s a feeling that goes beyond gold medals. It’s about creating moments that last a lifetime.”

How to pumpkin power your power pulls, it’s pumpkin spice season

by | Sep 21, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

Pumpkin Spice Snacks

Okay, pumpkin spice fans, you win! This post is a little more latte and a little less lutz, but you need to fuel those skating sessions right? Until now I have been resisting the urge to dive into fall flavors, especially with the beautiful weather we’ve been having here in the Northeast. But this week, I caved and went full-on pumpkin spice while planning some healthy snacks for the week ahead. I’m happy to report I found a couple of seasonal favorites!

First Find: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate

If you’re like me and need an afternoon pick-me-up but don’t want to overdo it with sugar and caffine, this product is a perfect. Enter: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate. I was skeptical at first—pumpkin spice can sometimes be overpowering—but this one strikes the perfect balance. Mixed with plant milk (I used almond milk for an extra boost of calcium and protein), it’s a deliciously smooth fall-flavored treat. A subtle hint of spice, no sugar crash, and no guilt!

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookie Recipe – Thanks, ChatGPT!

My second fall-inspired find actually came with a little help from AI! It’s not very often skaters have the opportunity to turn to technology for solutions but I thought this was a fun way to test out the power of artificial intelligence.   Previously I scrolled by an oatmeal and pumpkin cookie recipe on Instagram but couldn’t find it again when I was ready to bake. So, I asked ChatGPT, to create a healthy cookie receipe and gave it a few ingredients to use as a starting point.

These pumpkin oatmeal cookies are easy to whip up, nutritious, and made with whole ingredients like rolled oats and pumpkin puree. They’re sweetened with natural maple syrup or honey and can be customized with dark chocolate chips or raisins for extra flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 ½ cups rolled oats
  • ¼ cup (or less depending on your taste) maple syrup or honey 
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ cup dark chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
  • 1 egg (optional, for binding)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

Enjoy your healthy cookies!

Embrace the Pumpkin Spice Vibes

If you’ve been hesitant to jump on the pumpkin spice bandwagon as I was—these finds make it worth it.  The cold brew concentrate is a perfect afternoon pick-me-up, and the healthy pumpkin oatmeal cookies are a great snack to power you through the day. Let me know if you give either of these a try!

Is a Triple Axel Required? The Truth About Skating for Fun

by | Sep 14, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

Figure Skating Journey

Why is it that when you tell someone you figure skate, they immediately ask, “Can you skate backwards?” “Do you have a triple axel?” or “Are you going to the Olympics?” If you answer “no” to the last two, you’re often dismissed with, “Oh, so why do you skate?” It’s curious how being involved in a niche sport seems to demand expertise to justify your participation. Yet, if a friend told me they cycle, I wouldn’t ask, “Is your bike carbon fiber? Did you do a century ride (100 miles) this weekend? What’s your best finish in the Tour de France?”

Why does figure skating seem to require top-tier expertise and competitive success to be viewed as a valid pursuit? Here are my thoughts, and I’d love to hear yours.

The Fragments We See

First, only the highest levels of figure skating are shown to the general public. The skaters you see on TV are at the national or international level, and if you’re watching on a major network, you only see the top finishers—the top 1% of the one-percenters. This is quite different from sports like hockey, where you watch all teams, whether winning or losing in their divisions.

Hockey fans can follow their teams weekly during the season. Players have standout moments and times when they aren’t at their best, but that’s part of the bigger picture. In figure skating, only the top competitions get televised, and just a handful of skaters represent their countries internationally. As a result, you may only see an elite skater 3–4 times a season, magnifying the importance of each performance.

Big Jumps or Bust?

Unlike sports where outcomes are straightforward—like whether a puck enters the net or a sprinter finishes in a specific time—figure skating has a complex judging system. Currently, it often emphasizes technical difficulty, giving the impression that it’s “all about the jumps” or that judging is unfair. While figure skating has experienced judging controversies, the current IJS system strives to balance all elements in a program, including spins, jumps, footwork, and presentation.

Since jumps are the most visible element, commentators often focus on them, leaving some viewers puzzled by the rest of the program (such as footwork sequences or spins, which are anything but filler content) or why one skater outscored another. Non-jump elements rarely receive attention in competition broadcasts.

Perfection Isn’t a Goal

When athletes from other sports discuss their goals, they usually sound like: “I want to run a 6-minute mile” or “I’m focusing on defense.” You wouldn’t hear a baseball pitcher say their goal is to pitch a perfect game—it happens, but it’s extremely rare.

So, why do figure skaters feel pressured to achieve a specific score (something they can’t control, as different judging panels weigh deductions differently) or skate a “clean” program? While it seems reasonable, a clean program depends on how your elements are going during training, how you feel on the day, and whether the technical panel agrees with your version of “clean”—given they have slow-motion replays.

Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day

When we watch elite athletes, it’s easy to forget that their success took years of hard work and perseverance. Even when commentators make it seem like someone “burst onto the scene,” the reality is different. If you follow figure skating, you’ve likely heard of Nathan Chen, aka “The Quad King,” but he too started with basic moves and small jumps.

Malcolm Gladwell popularized the “10,000-hour rule” in his book Outliers, suggesting it takes around 10,000 hours of practice to master a skill. Let’s do some math: if you skated 10 hours a week for 20 years, you’d hit roughly 10,000 hours—enough to be considered an expert.

The Most Improved Swimmer Award

Remember this award from summer camp? One camper would start the summer scared to dive off the dock, but after weeks of hard work, they’d be rewarded with a trophy for their progress. If you were that kid, I bet you kept that trophy long after others were forgotten because it symbolized dedication and effort.

Why can’t we apply this mentality to figure skating? The focus could shift to achieving personal milestones—logging practice hours, mastering a specific jump, or performing your best at a competition—and letting the results fall as they may.

“Success in figure skating doesn’t have to be defined by podium finishes. It can be as simple as mastering a move you’ve practiced for weeks or simply enjoying time on the ice.”

So, if we replay the conversation from the beginning, it might go something like this:

Can you skate backwards? Yes.
Do you have a triple axel? No, but I’m working on my lutz.
Are you going to the Olympics? Unlikely, but I’m enjoying every moment of my skating journey.

Glitz and Glam: Expert Tips for Program Hair & Makeup

by | Sep 7, 2024 | Conversations

Figure skating hair & makeup

I recently sat down with Tori Bland of VLB Beauty—a hairstylist, makeup artist, show and film SFX artist—to discuss her take on creating program hair and makeup looks that last. Here’s what she had to say:

Tips for Mastering Program Hair & Makeup

When it comes to figure skating, the contrast between everyday makeup and competition makeup is as striking as the difference between a quiet rehearsal and a spotlighted stage show. Everyday makeup tends to be more natural and subtle, often just a touch of bronzer and mascara. But for competition, figure skaters need to go bold—our stage is large, and the lighting is harsh.

For inspiration, I often look to the pros at national and world championships. Skaters at this level often create a full character with their makeup and hair, reflecting the intensity and drama of their skating program. Think of it as a more theatrical, exaggerated version of everyday beauty.

Drawing Inspiration Beyond Skating

While top-level figure skating performances provide a wealth of inspiration, I also draw from theater, fashion, and even the character of the music being skated to. For instance, if a skater is performing to something classic like Gone with the Wind, you might see them sporting spiral curls reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara. Or, for something modern like a Star Wars-themed performance, space buns inspired by Princess Leia might be the an option.

Figure skating makeup

Hair Challenges: From Character to Mood

When it comes to hairstyles, the skater’s character, music, and mood all play a significant role in determining the right look. If the music is harsh and intense, a structured, elegant hairstyle might be appropriate, balancing sharpness with a touch of softness. But remember, figure skaters aren’t just walking down a runway—they’re spinning, jumping, and moving at high speeds. So, durability is key.

That’s why there’s typically a lot of product involved. Think hair gel, hairspray, and more hair gel—enough to make sure every strand stays in place, even in a level 4 spin. For particularly challenging hair types, like a thick, heavy, straight texture that resists curls or fine blonde hair that needs volume, specific techniques and products are crucial. Setting curls overnight, using volumizing powders, or even creating the illusion of fuller hair with makeup products designed for that purpose.

Makeup for the Rink: Balancing Colors and Lights

The rink is a unique stage—bright, fluorescent lights reflect off white ice, creating a tough environment for makeup. To combat this, skaters need makeup that won’t wash out or look too harsh. Color theory plays a big role here. For example, the rink’s lighting could make everything look yellow; therefore, purple makeup can help neutralize that and provide a striking contrast. This is why competition makeup often goes heavier than everyday looks, especially with blush, to add warmth and avoid looking washed out.

Figure skating hair styles

Makeup and Hair for Young Skaters

When it comes to children, simpler is better. A little eyeshadow, mascara, blush, and lip color can go a long way. Keep it fun and easy—using eye shadow sticks or fingers instead of brushes can make application a breeze. And when it comes to glitter, whether on the face or in the hair, the key is to ensure it stays put. Products like glitter gels or strong-hold setting sprays can help lock everything in place.

Making It Last: Products and Techniques

For long-lasting makeup, layering is essential. Start with a good base—like concealer all over the eyelid, which acts as a primer—and set everything with powder and setting spray. For competition-level durability, brands like Half Magic, known for their vibrant, performance-ready formulas, can make all the difference.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring a touch-up kit. Small, compact products are perfect for on-the-go fixes, especially between events. Remember, a well-prepared skater is a confident skater, and that confidence shows on the ice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes I see is the lack of effort in hair and makeup. Skaters who show up with just a ponytail and eyeliner miss out on the opportunity to enhance their presentation. Remember, figure skating is an artistic sport—how you look on the ice affects not only how you feel but also how you perform. A polished appearance boosts confidence, which in turn can improve your performance. And yes, judges do notice!

In the end, the effort you put into your hair and makeup is as much a part of your performance as the jumps and spins. So, take the time to perfect your look, and step onto the ice with the confidence that you’re going to slay it out there.

The Ultimate Guide to Adult Skate Camps: Advice & Observations

by | Aug 31, 2024 | Conversations

Road to Gold Skate Camp

Summer often brings back childhood memories of camp, but the fun doesn’t have to stop when you grow up! Adult skate camps are a fantastic way to relive the experience, offering opportunities to train intensively—even if just for a few days. Not only do you get to hone your skills, but you also get to connect with fellow adult skaters, learn from new coaches, and explore different aspects of the sport that you might not experience in your usual training routine.

I recently caught up with three campers who attended the Road to Gold, The Experience, and Lake Placid Adult Week camps. They shared their experiences, insights, and some helpful advice for anyone considering diving into an adult skate camp.

Have you been to an adult skate camp? Share your experience in the comments below!

Road to Gold

Meet our Camper:  Julie Bardon is an adult competitive skater at the master intermediate/novice level and she attended with the goal to work on her spins since she competed 6.0 as a child and the new IJS system adds a different emphasis on elements.

Location: This camp travels to many different areas and aims to serve smaller markets where it can be challenging for skaters to find top coaches.  Our skater attended the camp in Vail, CO which had a dedicated adult weekend.

Duration: 2 days with a welcome reception the night before

Structure: For this camp you have two options, you can build your own camp by choosing a la carte from an abundance of on and off ice classes each with a particular skill focus or you can work with camp coordinator to create a more traditional structure.

Coaches: Gracie Gold, Geoffry Varner, Max Aaron, Eddie Shipstad & James Hernandez to name a few

Julie’s Thoughts: The allure of this camp lies not just in its picturesque setting, but in its unique structure and top-notch coaching. One of the benefits of this camp is the variety of classes available, catering to all levels. From basic turns to double jumps, skaters can choose classes that challenge them without overwhelming them. Each class is categorized by skill level, ensuring that skaters can select sessions that align with their current abilities. For those looking to take their skills to the next level, there are even advanced sessions focusing on double jumps and spin combinations.

Despite Vail’s reputation as a luxury destination, the camp itself is surprisingly affordable, especially when you consider the quality of instruction. The biggest expenses tend to be travel and lodging, but even these can be mitigated. Many participants opt to stay in Airbnbs, sharing accommodations with fellow skaters. This not only cuts costs but also enhances the overall experience, allowing for bonding and shared meals.

The coaching staff is another highlight. With big names like Gracie Gold and Max Aaron, skaters have the opportunity to learn from the best. Max Aaron’s classes, in particular, stood out to Julie for his hands-on, personalized approach. Even in larger groups, Max managed to provide individual feedback, making sure each skater left with something valuable to work on.

Other unique features of the camp is the opportunity for video analysis, where skaters can watch themselves perform and receive detailed feedback from coaches and a mock competition that provided an opportunity to showcase programs and receive feedback from the coaching staff.

Julie’s Advice:  For those considering attending next year, a few tips: Sign up early—this camp is gaining popularity fast. Also, plan your travel carefully. With Vail’s high altitude and unpredictable weather, flight delays are common. If possible, take an extra day off work to allow for any unexpected changes in your itinerary. Finally, make the most of the social aspect of the camp. Staying with other skaters not only reduces costs but also makes the experience more enjoyable.

The Experience Adult Skate Camp

The Experience Camp

Meet our Camper:  Kim Gallaway is a competitive skater at the adult gold level. This was Kim’s first ever camp experience and she didn’t attend with ‘must have’ goals per say but rather really wanted to enjoy her time on the ice and fix her camel spin.

Location: This camp has a couple of locations including Cape Cod, MA and Palm Springs, CA. Kim attended the Cape Cod location.

Duration: 2.5 days with a welcome reception the night before

Structure: Each day follows a basic structure but allows for customization and private lessons.  The camp also had social activities and planned meals included.

Coaches: Gracie Gold, Randy Gardner, Nancy Kerrigan, Jeremy Abbott, Elin Schran to name a few

Kim’s Thoughts: Attending this camp was a heartwarming experience that exceeded all my expectations. Imagine being surrounded by like-minded adult skaters, regardless of skill level, coming together to share in the joy of skating. This camp wasn’t just about improving techniques; it was about creating connections, building confidence, and finding a supportive community.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and filled with positive energy, thanks in part to the wonderful coaches.  The camp kicked off with a cocktail reception, where we met the coaches and fellow skaters. This set the tone for the next few days—fun, friendly, and inclusive.

The structure of the camp was well-balanced with both on-ice and off-ice activities. We had dynamic warm-ups, ice flow sessions, and a variety of classes tailored to different skills, from basic edges to advanced jumps. One of the highlights was the group routines led by Randy, where we learned choreography similar to what you’d see on Stars on Ice. It was a blast working together to perfect these routines, and it truly felt like being part of a team.

Private lessons with the coaches were an incredible opportunity to get personalized tips and feedback.  Jeremy Abbott, for instance, helped me tremendously with my camel spin, offering insights that I’ve been trying to master for ages.

The social aspect of the camp was just as enriching as the skating. We had catered lunches with Q&A sessions, where the coaches shared personal stories and advice. In the evenings, we enjoyed dinners together and even had a bonfire on the beach, which was a perfect way to unwind and bond with the other campers.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the camp was the diversity in skill levels. There were skaters who hadn’t been on the ice in years, alongside others who had double jumps. But no matter where you fell on that spectrum, there was a place for you. The supportive environment ensured that everyone, from those who were just getting back into skating to those aiming to refine their technique, felt encouraged and valued.

Kim’s Advice:  For anyone considering The Experience camp, my advice is simple: just go for it. Don’t worry about whether you’re “good enough.” This camp is more about the experience, the camaraderie, and the joy of skating. It’s a place where you can reconnect with your love for the sport, make new friends, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Lake Placid Adult Skate Camp

Lake Placid Adult Skating Week

Meet our Camper: Alyssa Ardai is a competitive skater at the adult bronze level. This was her first camp experience, and she attended without specific goals—just the desire to enjoy the experience and connect with other adult skaters.

Location: The Olympic Center in Lake Placid, New York. This annual camp happens every August and hosts a week of adult classes.

Duration: The camp offers flexibility with 1, 3, or 5-day packages with an exhibition on Saturday that campers may participate in.

Structure: There is a flat fee to cover all ice time. Classes, both on and off-ice, are available for a small fee per class, making it easy to customize your experience.  Alyssa spent most of her days on the ice, starting around 9 a.m. and taking only brief breaks throughout the day. The structure allowed her to maximize time on the ice while still pacing herself to avoid burnout. It’s tempting to skate non-stop, but she found it important to take breaks and recharge, especially when sessions run as late as 7 p.m.

Coaches: Paul Wylie, Mimi Wacholder, Tracy Prussack Nicola, Karen Courtland Kelly, and Robin Miller, to name a few.

Alyssa’s Thoughts: If you’re an adult figure skater looking for a unique blend of intensive training, scenic surroundings, and camaraderie with fellow skaters, the Lake Placid Adult Skating Week is a must-try. The camp offered a variety of classes ranging from jumps and spins to edges and footwork. The smaller class sizes meant personalized attention and the chance to try new things, like spins I’d never attempted before.

One of the highlights was working with new coaches. While I was familiar with one coach going in, the variety of teaching styles and approaches was refreshing. Even when learning familiar techniques, hearing them explained differently made a big impact. I particularly enjoyed a class on edge work and jumps, where I picked up new tips for different entries.

There were also social activities like a curling event, which was a blast despite my total lack of experience. Additionally there was a group barbecue hosted by a long-time camp participant, which was a great chance to mingle outside of the rink. The sense of community is strong, and it’s easy to make connections with skaters of all levels.

The camp culminates in a show on Saturday, which is open to all levels. There’s no pressure, and it’s a fun way to wrap up the week. Participants ranged from beginners to those working on double jumps, but the atmosphere was supportive and inclusive. No matter your skill level, you can join in and perform in front of your fellow skaters.

Alyssa’s Advice: If you’re considering attending Lake Placid, go with an open mind and be ready to try new things. Don’t worry if a class seems above or below your level—the coaches are adaptable and will meet you where you are. And don’t forget to pack for the theme days if you’re into that; I felt a bit out of place in my PJs on theme day when others weren’t as dressed up!

Overall, the Lake Placid Adult Skating Camp gets a big thumbs up from me. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in skating, learn from talented coaches, and enjoy the stunning surroundings of Lake Placid. Whether you’re there to improve your skills or just to have fun, it’s a week well spent on the ice.