N-ice work skating in Disney’s ice spectacular
The spectacular ice show Disney On Ice returns to Cardiff next week and one of the skaters just happens to be Welsh. We ask Kira Geil to tell us what audiences can expect...
Q: What age did you begin skating and why? A: I was 11 and it was watching legends Torvill and Dean in European and World Championships – I wanted to be like them.
Q: What is your earliest memory of watching Disney films while growing up in Port Talbot? A: My earliest Disney memory is watching The Rescuers. I was five years old at the time and I loved the thought of two mice going to rescue a young orphan girl from the evil and scary Madame Medusa.
My favourite Disney film has to be The Lion King – I love everything about it, from the story of a frightened cub to King of his Pride, to the music filled with African vibes, which captivates me every time. That first opening note from Circle of Life always brings tears of awe to my eyes.
I have a few favourite Disney characters but the ones that appeal most to me are Merida from Brave and Mulan. I like these characters because they are strong, independent young women. I love the fact that Merida stays true to herself and follows her heart and I love Mulan’s courage throughout her troubles and determination to continue to do what’s right regardless what’s heading her way.
Q. What characters do you play in the Disney On Ice show and what are the routines you perform? A: I’m an ensemble skater, which means I can be in any of the big production numbers at any time. It keeps me focused and alert as my track can be different every day.
Q: What do you think it is that makes the show so appealing to people of all ages? A: I think it’s a mix of it all – from the music which we all know and can sing along to, to the characters that you can see up close and in person and to the routines and tricks that we do on ice.
The children are fascinated to see their favourite characters live, the adults too! But I think adults are probably curious and impressed to see how we tell these stories on ice. Everyone has grown up with Disney – it’s something that passes through generations of family and it never seems to tire.
Q: Do you ever get nervous before a show and worry about falling on the ice? A: I still get a little nervous before shows but I think it’s healthy – it keeps me on my toes, or blades I should say. I don’t worry about falling on the ice, although it has happened to me. I was skating off from one of my routines and I didn’t look down – one of the kids at the show dropped their toy car on the ice and I ended up stepping on it. Of course, I was a total wipe out – there was no way to save that fall!
Q: Have you ever been to Disneyland Paris or in America and, if so, tell us some of the highlights for you? A: I’ve been extremely lucky – from touring with this company we have had shows in Paris, Anaheim – California and Florida so I have had the opportunity to go to all. My favourite park so far is Disney’s Animal Kingdom – I met Baloo and King Louis there! Overall the scenery is spectacular in Animal Kingdom and to see the Tree of Life actually come to life really is magical.
Q: What is the best and worst thing about living on the road? A: The best thing is meeting new people and seeing new places; worst thing is not being able to cook.
Q: While on tour, what is your favourite thing to do during your free time? A: Exploring the city I’m in or, if I know the place, then venturing out and seeing what the nearest city/ town/countryside has to offer.
Q: What are your tips for frequent travellers? A: Pack light! If you need to buy clothes, make sure they match the shoes that you already have!
Q: What items can’t you live without on the road? A: Camera and action camera. I need to have something to capture the best moments in time.
Q: What do you enjoy about performing?
A: I love being able to bring a smile to people’s faces. I love it when kids get involved and start to dance with us. Knowing that you have made someone’s day is an awesome feeling.
Q: What advice would you give to children who want to be a performer? A: Work hard and enjoy what you do.
Q: If you weren’t performing, what might you be doing for a living? A: Either coaching ice dance or being a fitness instructor.
■ Disney On Ice is at Motorpoint Arena Cardiff from Wednesday, April 25 to Sunday, April 29. Call 029 2022 4488 or visit www.disneyonice. com