The magical world of the Madrigal family is skating into Massachusetts this December as Disney On Ice presents Frozen and Encanto at the Agganis Arena. Running from December 19 through December 29 in Boston, this production features world-class ice skating and aerial acrobatics that bring two award-winning films to life. Audiences will join Mirabel on her quest to save her enchanted casita and see the beloved sisters Anna and Elsa in a race to bring back summer to Arendelle. The show continues in Hartford from January 15-18, Rockford, IL, from January 29-February 1, Baltimore, MD, from February 5-8, and continues around the Midwest and East Coast through March (you can find tickets for all dates here).
Bringing Animated Favorites to the Ice
The transition from screen to rink requires a deep commitment to character study. Skater Sophie Thomas, who portrays Dolores from Encanto, emphasizes the importance of staying true to the source material to meet fans’ high expectations.
“For me, something that really helps with getting into character is watching the movies,” said Thomas. “In the show, I portray the role of Dolores in the Encanto segment, and when preparing for the role, I watched Encanto multiple times to better understand Dolores’ mannerisms, facial expressions, and movements. I then applied that on the ice, which really helped bring the character to life.”
The Professionalism of Touring Performance
While competitive skating focuses on technical scores, performing in a touring show like Disney On Ice requires a different set of disciplines. Performers must balance their athletic abilities with the creative demands of a massive traveling production.
“There is a lot of hard work and discipline involved in both competitive and professional skating,” Thomas said. “I think the biggest difference between the two is that competitive skating focuses heavily on the perfect execution of technical skills such as jumps and spins, and achieving a high score. Professional skating, on the other hand, focuses more on creativity, exciting and eye-catching tricks, skating with props and costumes, and engaging with the audience.”
The logistics of moving a show of this scale across the country are handled by an extensive support network that remains out of the public eye.
“The audience sees the amazing show on the ice, but there is also a whole team of people who are constantly working behind the scenes who make sure everything runs smoothly,” said Thomas. “We have an extremely dedicated crew, performance director, wardrobe team, tour coordinators, and many others who handle details that the audience doesn’t always get to see. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to put on such an incredible show.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
For many children, this performance serves as an introduction to both professional theater and figure skating. The show’s immersive nature creates a unique connection between the skaters and the fans in the stands.
“I think the show is so special because it allows the audience to escape reality and become immersed in the magic and stories of their favourite Disney movies,” Thomas noted. “Something really memorable that I see almost every show is that during the finale, almost every child in the audience is standing up and dancing along with us. It’s amazing to see that the joy and excitement we feel while performing is influencing and inspiring the audience as well.”
The energy peaks during the introduction of the Madrigal family, a moment that captures Colombia’s vibrant spirit.
“My favourite scene to perform in the show would have to be “Family Madrigal,” which is one of the very first scenes in the Encanto segment of the show,” said Thomas. “I love performing this scene because it is so lively, with vibrant colors, energetic music, and excitement from the audience. It feels like a giant party every time we perform it, so I can’t help but feel joy and enthusiasm while skating!”
Get tickets here!
