It's been 90 years since Steamboat Willie introduced Mickey Mouse to the world, and on Wednesday some of Canberra's young figure skaters had the chance to learn the Disney on Ice piece created for the momentous anniversary.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With Disney On Ice celebrates Mickey and Friends set to hit the AIS Arena next month, two of the show's star performers were in Canberra early to host a workshop with ACT Ice Skating Association students, teaching them part of the show's opening number, before having a meet and greet with the big man himself, Mickey Mouse.
"This part I really enjoy because I get to share my love of figure skating and bring everyone's favourite characters to town as well, so it's a joy because the kids are having fun," performer Grant Marron said.
"Not only are they learning new skills but they get to meet some of their favourite characters."
Marron has been part of the Disney on Ice tour for 10 years, and this tour will take on the role of Li Shang, from Mulan, while fellow workshop host Anna Bradshaw will bring to life Rapunzel from Tangled.
It's the first time in more than a decade that Disney on Ice has come to Canberra, and this year brings a brand new show celebrating 90 years of Mickey Mouse, as well as other family favourites including characters from Frozen, Finding Dory and for the first time, Moana.
The production is one of nine Disney on Ice shows currently touring the world. Each hosts 80-100 cast and crew members, and is completely self-sufficient.
"We carry our own ice, we carry our own props, our stage, our set," tour coordinator Hollie Marron said.
"And all of that has to go through customs, especially when coming to Australia. When we finished our leg in Indonesia, we actually have three-four weeks before we open in Australia and that's just so we can get the set in.
"The tip of the iceberg really is the production. There's weeks and weeks of build, and years of preproduction.
"But ... I see the screams and shouts for Mickey when he comes out and it makes it all worth while."
Disney On Ice celebrates Mickey & Friends will be at AIS Arena from June 19-23 and has just announced another show on June 20.