The Cool and Crazy World of Ice Follies

Ice Follies: A Journey into the Spectacular Performance on Ice

If you're a fan of ice skating, then the words "Ice Follies" are probably already familiar to you. But for those who are not in the know, let me fill you in. Ice Follies was a touring ice show that featured a mix of figure skating, comedy, and music. It was known for its elaborate costumes, dazzling choreography, and high-energy performances that took place on ice. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of Ice Follies and take a closer look at what made it such a beloved entertainment phenomenon.

History of Ice Follies

Ice Follies began in 1936 when Eddie Shipstad, Roy Shipstad, and Oscar Johnson formed a partnership and created the Shipstad and Johnson Ice Follies. The trio had a passion for both ice skating and showmanship, and they saw an opportunity to combine the two in a unique way. Their first show was a success, and soon they were traveling around the country, performing in arenas and stadiums from coast to coast.

Over the years, Ice Follies evolved and grew in popularity. Skaters like Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill, and Michelle Kwan became household names thanks to their performances in Ice Follies shows. The show also spawned imitators and competitors, including Holiday on Ice and Disney on Ice, but none could quite capture the magic of the original.

Costumes and Choreography

One of the things that set Ice Follies apart from other ice shows was its elaborate costumes and choreography. The skaters wore outfits that were often colorful, sparkly, and over-the-top, designed to catch the eye and add to the spectacle of the show. The choreography was also carefully crafted to showcase the skaters' talents while also entertaining the audience.

Examples of Costumes and Choreography

For example, one famous routine from Ice Follies involved a group of skaters dressed as clowns. They would skate around the rink, performing tricks and stunts while wearing oversized shoes, red noses, and brightly colored outfits. Another routine featured skaters dressed in futuristic silver costumes, skating to a pung electronic beat and performing acrobatic moves that seemed to defy gravity.

Music and Comedy

In addition to the skating itself, Ice Follies shows were known for their music and comedy. The shows typically included a mix of popular songs, classical pieces, and original music that was composed specifically for the show. There were also comedic interludes, often featuring clowns or other characters, that added a lighthearted touch to the proceedings.

Examples of Music and Comedy

One classic routine from Ice Follies involved a pair of skaters dressed as sailors, performing to the tune of "Anchors Aweigh." They would skate around the rink, jumping over each other and doing flips, all while maintaining perfect synchronicity with the music. Another routine featured a group of skaters dressed as penguins, waddling around the ice to the sound of Benny Goodman's "Sing, Sing, Sing."

Why Ice Follies Was So Popular

There are many reasons why Ice Follies was so beloved by audiences. For one thing, it offered a unique blend of athleticism, artistry, and entertainment that was hard to find anywhere else. The skaters in Ice Follies were not just athletes, they were performers who could captivate an audience with their grace, skill, and showmanship.

Another reason why Ice Follies was so popular was its accessibility. Unlike other ice shows that were often held in expensive arenas or theaters, Ice Follies would often perform in smaller venues like high school gyms and community centers. This made it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to see the show and enjoy the experience.

Legacy of Ice Follies

Although Ice Follies officially ended its run in 1995, its legacy lives on to this day. The show inspired countless young skaters and helped to popularize figure skating as a sport and an art form. Many of the skaters who performed in Ice Follies went on to have successful careers in both skating and entertainment, and the show itself remains a beloved part of American pop culture history.

FAQs about Ice Follies

1. What happened to Ice Follies?

Ice Follies officially ended its run in 1995 after nearly 60 years of touring. However, its influence can still be seen today in the many ice shows and competitions that continue to showcase the talents of figure skaters around the world.

2. Who were some famous skaters who performed in Ice Follies?

Over the years, Ice Follies featured a wide range of talented skaters, including Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill, Michelle Kwan, and Scott Hamilton, among many others.

3. Did Ice Follies ever perform outside of the United States?

Yes, Ice Follies toured internationally and performed in countries like Canada, Japan, and Mexico.

4. Is there any way to watch old performances from Ice Follies?

While recordings of Ice Follies performances are rare, some clips can be found online or in archives. There are also several documentaries and books that explore the history of the show.

5. What was the most popular routine from Ice Follies?

It's hard to say which routine was the most popular, as there were so many memorable performances over the years. However, one routine that is often cited as a fan favorite is the "Toyland Ballet," which featured skaters dressed as toys and performing to Tchaikovsky's "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy."

The End

That's a wrap on our exploration of Ice Follies! From its early beginnings as a small touring show to its status as an entertainment phenomenon, Ice Follies left a lasting impact on the world of figure skating and performance. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering the show for the first time, we hope this blog post has given you a taste of the magic and excitement that made Ice Follies such a beloved part of American culture.