Stars on Ice 2022 only had one show in Calgary it’s back (with Kurt Browning’s last tour!) on May 14, 2023.
May 20, 2022
Blades flashing, snow flying, and huge smiles on everyone’s faces — this was the 2022 Stars on Ice! The music was upbeat, the skaters were energetic, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement because it was a night to celebrate that entertainment was back. Maybe you were there because you enjoy a night out or you love skating. Maybe you’re a dedicated Kurt Browning fan or you’re hooked on the unique style of Elladj Baldé, the Canadian skater who has become an internet sensation by opening the world of skating to a wider audience.
Maybe you were there for all of those reasons!
Energy, flash, and fun!
Stars on Ice checked all the boxes last Saturday night, bringing high-calibre entertainment to the enthusiastic crowd with an unparalleled blend of athleticism, skill, and artistry. To be honest, I am an easy sell for this show. I’ve been hooked on this icy sport, patiently tracing my figures and falling on jumps in a cold small-town rink, for most of my life. But even those in our party who weren’t partial to figure skating loved the evening, as this was skating for the love of it, for the joy of the moment.
Elladj Baldé and his infectious energy
Skills by Kirsten Moore-Towers and Michael Marinaro
Jeffrey Buttle, a cast member and three-time Canadian champion who is also the tour’s director and choreographer, said before the tour began, “The skaters are incredibly excited to be back on the ice back in front of a live crowd … It’s going to be a great tour, the theme this year is ‘Journey’.”
The always smiling Keegan Messing
Backflippin’ fun with Keegan Messing and Elladj Baldé
And what a journey it was, filled with the energy of performers thrilled to be back in the spotlight. It was playful, moving, and even made you gasp at times. (With multiple cast members who do a backflip, there was backflipping all over the place!) A varied selection of music that kept us interested and engaged, with choices from Send in the Clowns and What a Wonderful World to hard rock and modern R&B, the show culminated in a delightful medley of Elton John hits for the final group number, complete with resplendent costumes.
This year’s cast included Kurt Browning, Elvis Stojko, Kaetlyn Osmond, Jeffrey Buttle, and Kaitlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje. From the 2022 Olympics, came Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier, Kirsten Moore-Towers and Michael Marinaro, and Keegan Messing. And we couldn’t forget the consummate entertainer, Elladj Baldé! The cast was rounded out by American Alissa Czisny and Japanese skater Satoko Miyahara.
The many looks of Kurt Browning
The flying women of Stars on Ice: Kaetlyn Osmond and Satoko Miyahara
The group numbers were completely engaging, whether a few of the skaters were on the ice together or the whole ensemble was executing a well-choreographed number. From the sparkle and lights to the excitement and energy, it was another show to remember from Stars on Ice!
Stars on Ice will be back in 2023 for another spectacular tour.
The author would like to thank Stars on Ice for hosting her at this event. All opinions are her own.
Photos by Charity Quick
