How Figure Skaters Can Prepare to Audition for Disney on Ice (2024)

Read on if you're interested in skating and performing in Disney On Ice to prepare to audition for the show.

About Disney on Ice

Disney on Ice is a touring ice show featuring figure skaters playing characters from Disney films. There are several different Disney On Ice productions and touring companies. The shows tour all over the world. Some people say that watching a Disney On Ice show is like taking a brief trip to Disneyland or Disney World.

Tour the World and Skate at the Same Time

Many young people begin thinking about college as their high school years come to a close, but some skaters decide that before, during, or after college, that they should take some time to use their skating skills professionally. Disney On Ice gives skaters that chance.

Qualifications

All skaters who audition for Disney On Ice must be of a very high caliber. Every skater in the ensemble is usually an understudy for a lead role in the show, so only the very best skaters are considered for Disney On Ice.

Disney On Ice's audition team is looking for the following:

  • Skaters that are at the junior/senior level.
  • Skaters with strong skating skills and who are especially good at edges and turns.
  • Performers with acting skills.
  • Team players.
  • High school graduates at least 17 years of age.

Skating Preparation

Disney On Ice is especially looking for figure skaters who have that "special something."

Certain skaters just love to perform and will thrive in Disney On Ice's environment. Skaters should participate and compete in artistic figure skating competitions and showcase events like National Showcase. Those experiences are a great way to gain the artistic experience needed before auditioning for an ice show.

No Height and Weight Requirements

Disney On Ice does not have specific height requirements, but a certain part may require a certain height. The show looks for attractive individuals who are fit and healthy looking.

Disney Especially Likes Skaters With Pair Skating Skills and Experience

Disney On Ice is especially looking for figure skaters with pair skating experience. Even if you do not have a partner, get some pair skating experience if possible before auditioning.

Audition Process

To begin the Disney On Ice audition process, skaters should first send in a portfolio which includes a resume, picture, and video.

The portfolio should be sent to:

Feld Entertainment
Ice Creative Casting
2001 US HWY 301
Palmetto FL 34221

E-Mail:Lisa ScuffellorJudy Thomas

The Resume — What to Include

Tell as much about yourself as possible in the resume. Share about why you skate, about family, your interests, your education, and your interests and hobbies outside of skating. Let the show get to know you. Be sure to include:

  • Full name
  • Figure skating accomplishments
  • Date of Birth
  • Address
  • Phone
  • Fax
  • Email
  • Height
  • Weight
  • Passport Information (if you have a passport)

The Video — What to Include

The video included in the skater's portfolio should be 3 to 6 minutes long. The skater should first introduce himself or herself. After the introduction, the video should show the skater doing jumps, spins, footwork, spirals, moves such as Bauers and spread eagles, and jump combinations. After showing individual elements, the skater can include performances from recent competitions, ice shows, or exhibitions.

What to Wear

In the video, skaters should wear standard figure skating clothes. Look nice and neat. Don't wear baggy clothes. Hair should be pulled back and be away from the face. Don't forget the makeup.

Don't Worry If You Are Not a Jumper

The video should show the highest level of jumps a skater can do consistently. If you are an ice dancer or a synchronized figure skater who does not jump, indicate that on your resume. Disney On Ice is interested in skaters from all the skating disciplines and backgrounds.

Personal Auditions

Most of the time, the Disney On Ice audition team can decide if a skater is qualified for the show based on their resume, photo, and video. If a personal audition is needed, an audition will be arranged when Disney On Ice comes near a skater's hometown. It is recommended that an applicant send in a portfolio six weeks before one of the Disney On Ice touring shows comes to a skater's area. That way, then there will be enough to time make in-person audition arrangements.

Information for Parents

Parents of figure skaters in Disney On Ice should know that their children will be traveling in a highly structured and supervised environment. Since the show's cast members represent Disney, it is expected that all skaters maintain a family-like and wholesome image on and off the ice.

Make Friends For Life

Being in a company like Disney On Ice is really like being in a big family since skaters are together so much and are away from home for so long. Those who have toured with Disney On Ice have made lifelong friends.

Traveling and Skating Is an Education in Itself

Figure skaters that are considering educational options before, during, or after the college years should consider that touring Disney On Ice is an educational opportunity and may be a chance of a lifetime. Most young people don't have a talent like a figure skating that can open doors like the door Disney On Ice has to offer.

There are only a certain amount of years when a skater is at the age and in the physical and mental condition to skate in a professional ice show. Skaters and their parents should take into account that the "window of opportunity" to skate in Disney On Ice will not come again. After a year or more of touring, an individual may be ready for college and be better prepared for life

How Figure Skaters Can Prepare to Audition for Disney on Ice (2024)

FAQs

How do you become a skater on Disney On Ice? ›

We do not require specific freestyle elements. On the video, please show the highest level of jumps that you do consistently. If you do not jump, please indicate this in your resume. We audition many skaters with varied skating backgrounds, be it freestyle, pair, ice dance, synchro, acrobatic or comedic.

Is it hard to get into Disney On Ice? ›

Qualifications. All skaters who audition for Disney On Ice must be of a very high caliber. Every skater in the ensemble is usually an understudy for a lead role in the show, so only the very best skaters are considered for Disney On Ice.

How much do skaters in Disney On Ice make? ›

How much does a Disney On Ice make? As of Jan 8, 2023, the average annual pay for the Disney On Ice jobs category in the United States is $47,407 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $22.79 an hour. This is the equivalent of $911/week or $3,950/month.

How many hours a day do ice skaters train? ›

In competitions, skaters must perform a certain set of movements. They need to perfect all the required moves for their routines. Skaters train for three to six hours every day.

How hard is it to be an ice skater? ›

Ice skating is difficult and takes years of practice. While you may feel overwhelmed at first, practice a few times a week. You'll eventually get the hang of figure skating. It's hard to judge your own technique as you cannot observe yourself.

What age is best for Disney On Ice? ›

What is the best age for Disney on Ice? Disney On Ice is suitable for all ages, although we recommend for ages 2 and up. All guests under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under the age of 2 can attend the show without a ticket if they sit on a parent or guardian's lap throughout the performance.

Should I wear a jacket to Disney On Ice? ›

Bring a Coat, Just in Case

The Disney On Ice website advises that “temperature in the arena is typically 10+ degrees cooler than outside.” When I caught Disney On Ice with my fam, I entered the arena prepared for icy-cold air, but the temperature inside was surprisingly comfortable.

What is the best place to sit for Disney On Ice? ›

Go Front Row or Stay Back

This probably goes without saying, but the best place to view Disney on Ice is from the front row. You don't have to worry about anything blocking your view, especially if you're with small children, and you'll be as close as possible to the performers.

Is ice skating a rich sport? ›

It's true in nearly every sport. Coaching fees, travel expenses, and physical therapy and athletic conditioning to keep the body operating at elite levels add up. But figure skating is among the priciest, with costs running more than $35,000 a year and as much as $50,000 annually by some estimates.

How do you strengthen your legs for ice skating? ›

Muscle activation series for figure skaters
  1. Single leg deadlift/balance.
  2. Jump squats or jump lunges or star jumps.
  3. Skipping.
  4. Rotation jumps.

Does figure skating pay well? ›

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $113,000 and as low as $14,000, the majority of Figure Skating salaries currently range between $30,000 (25th percentile) to $83,000 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $100,000 annually across the United States.

What should I prepare for ice skating? ›

We recommend you to wear a winter jacket or a few layers of clothing, and long pants to stay warm and prevent injuries. Gloves & socks are compulsory to keep yourself warmth and prevent cuts. Wear thick calf socks to prevent abrasion from the skate boots (ankle socks are not recommended).

Should I wear jeans or leggings for ice skating? ›

People make a mistake by wearing jeans to an ice rink. It isn't impossible to skate while wearing jeans, but since falls are highly likely, you want something that will dry quickly. Also, you want something that will not constrict your legs, so you can move more easily. Leggings or sweatpants would be a good option.

What should figure skaters eat? ›

Eat something simple (taste-wise) containing mostly carbs and protein, for example low-fat yogurt and fruit, hummus and pita or a small fruit smoothie. It's wise to steer clear of strong flavors and sea- sonings as these can be more difficult to digest and can cause indigestion on a nervous stomach.

How do I increase my flexibility for figure skating? ›

Pull your right knee to your chest, left leg extended on the floor. Focus on those two actions: pulling your right knee and stretching and extending your left leg, foot flexed. Hold for five seconds, then release. Repeat five times, then switch legs.

How are ice skaters so skinny? ›

Under pressure

Many gifted young skaters find themselves reaching the national or international level just as their body is naturally changing as they go through puberty. The pressure of competition, as well as from their coaches, can push them to deliberate starvation in an attempt to hold back biology.

What is the hardest skill in ice skating? ›

The Axel jump or Axel Paulsen jump, named after its inventor, Norwegian figure skater Axel Paulsen, is an edge jump performed in figure skating. It is the sport's oldest and most difficult jump, and the only basic jump in competition with a forward take-off, which makes it the easiest to identify.

Is figure skating hard on your body? ›

For all of figure skating's grace and glamour, spectators rarely see pain. Pulled hamstrings, stress fractures, battered spines and arthritic hips are among the ailments elite skaters face.

How many years does it take to get good at ice skating? ›

Generally speaking, you are looking at about the six month mark to a year after you start skating, before you get to do the complicated stuff. It depends how much aptitude you have for the sport and how often you practice. As a general rule though.

What should parents wear to Disney On Ice? ›

Wear Long Sleeves

Since the show is performed on ice, the arena can get a little chilly! It's helpful to bring a sweater or light jacket for each person in your family so no one gets cold during the show.

Is Disney On Ice worth the money? ›

For those that can't get enough Disney stuff, watching the Disney on Ice show when it comes to your hometown is absolutely worth it! My kids and I have loved watching prior Disney on Ice productions. And Dream Big was no exception, it was fantastic. The shows are an excellent value and awesome entertainment all around!

Do they sell shirts at Disney On Ice? ›

Here are some of the Disney On Ice merchandise options. You can purchase light up wands, souvenir cups, shirts, and even purchase special souvenir photos! Disney On Ice has three different souvenir photo packages to choose from, and they are located outside of seating section.

Can I bring a blanket to Disney on Ice? ›

Don't let your little ones shiver throughout this chilly show. Wear layers and bring a light jacket or a blanket to stay cozy when watching Disney on Ice with kids.

Can you bring water bottle to Disney on Ice? ›

"Guests are welcome to bring bottles, cups and mugs into the theme parks provided that they are not glass containers and they do not bring alcohol into the theme parks. You can check out the Walt Disney World Resort Park Rules for the complete list of prohibited items.

Can you put ice in baggie and bring into Disney? ›

However, ice in baggies as well as freezer gel packs are allowed.

How do you survive the heat at Disney? ›

Tips to Beat the Heat at Disney World
  1. Stay Hydrated. ...
  2. Take Frequent Breaks. ...
  3. Visit the Parks in the Mornings and Evenings. ...
  4. Eat Cool Snacks. ...
  5. Go on Water Rides, or Hang Out at Splash Pads. ...
  6. Swim at Your Resort's Pool or a Water Park. ...
  7. Seek Air Conditioning Whenever Possible.
Jun 21, 2022

Why can't adults dress up for Disney On Ice? ›

Disney does not allow park guests over the age of 14 to dress in costumes like princess dresses. It could detract from the overall park experience and kids may confuse guests for Disney's real characters.

Why does Disney not allow loose ice? ›

The main concern is the potential for guests to slip on the loose ice. Disney recommends using reusable ice packs. Also due to safety, dry ice is not permitted.

Why are there no black ice skaters? ›

'I was the only person of color at the rink'

Today, skaters, coaches, parents and administrators cite the high cost of the sport, racism and a lack of exposure as reasons why there still aren't more Black and brown skaters.

Do figure skaters get dizzy? ›

Do figure skaters get dizzy? Not so much, because they've learned how to minimize it. Although they occasionally tumble upon landing, figure skaters mostly spin through the air without losing their balance. That's because they have conditioned their bodies and brains to quash that dizzying feeling, experts say.

Is skating a hard sport? ›

It's a relentless, difficult cycle. While skating for four minutes straight and flinging your body into the air to do jump after jump and doing difficult footwork to get crucial points, you have to be present.

What muscles do figure skaters use the most? ›

Some researchers who have analyzed ice figure skating argued that the activity of some muscle groups, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings and gastrocnemius, as well as the activity of the gluteus maximus, is critical to the success of figure skating jumps (Aleshinsky et al., 1988; Poe et al., 1994; King, 2005).

What muscles make you skate faster? ›

Fully activating and strengthening glutes is perhaps the biggest key to improving your skating power and speed. Glutes are the most powerful muscle in your body and using them to their potential can have massive impacts on your performance in hockey and many other sports.

What muscles are used most in ice skating? ›

Muscular training

Ice skating works the abdominal and lower body area, including the hamstrings, calves, quadriceps, pelvic floor muscles, back muscles, and gluteus maximus. If you don't know where all those muscles are, you'll probably find out the day after a long afternoon on the ice!

How many times a week should I practice figure skating? ›

Recreational figure skaters should aim for at least 3 times per week on the ice, no less than 2. No more than one of these times should be on a public session.

How many days a week do figure skaters train? ›

They're the result of a strict and gruelling training regimen that starts in their formative years – for some as early as three. Because these athletes need enhanced flexibility, balance, coordination, power and endurance, skaters are required to train on and off the ice five to six days a week.

How many hours a week do you practice figure skating? ›

Ice skating is a skill that involves much practice. Figure skaters with Olympic dreams need to practice every day for at least three to four hours. Ballet and off-ice conditioning and training are also recommended.

How do you not get nervous before a figure skating competition? ›

Anxiety or worry often takes the form of butterflies in the stomach.
...
Simple deep breathing:
  1. Put your hand on your abdomen about 2 inches below your belly button.
  2. Take 7 slow deep breaths down to the area of your hand.
  3. Breathe in through your nose for 4 slow counts.
  4. Breathe out through your mouth for 7 slow counts.

How do I get in shape for ice skating? ›

Easy at home WORKOUT for Figure Skaters
  1. PENDULUM.
  2. LATERAL LUNGES.
  3. SWISS BALL KNEE CURLS.
  4. HAMSTRING CURLS.
  5. BALL TRANSFERS.
  6. ONE LEG DEADLIFT.
  7. ADDUCTOR SIDE PLANK.

Do you need strong legs for ice skating? ›

Skaters need to have strong arms and legs in order to execute the jumps and spins required in figure skating. Some figure skaters also use cross-training methods, such as swimming or biking, to help them build endurance and stay in shape during the off-season.

Should I wear leggings to ice skating? ›

Sweatpants or leggings are a great option for skating as they keep your whole leg covered and are also stretchy to allow for free-range movements. Wear thin socks, do not wear extra thick socks which you think will keep your feet warm.

What do beginner ice skaters need? ›

The basic equipment you require for figure skating are boots, blades and comfortable, warm clothing. As for all sports, you'll also need to plan for hydration and, if you are skating outdoors, don't forget your sun protection too.

Do ice skaters get paid? ›

The salaries of Figure Skaters in the US range from $19,910 to $187,200 , with a median salary of $44,680 . The middle 50% of Figure Skaters makes $28,400, with the top 75% making $187,200.

How many years does it take to become an ice skater? ›

Generally speaking, you are looking at about the six month mark to a year after you start skating, before you get to do the complicated stuff. It depends how much aptitude you have for the sport and how often you practice. As a general rule though.

How long does it take to become an ice skater? ›

If you're looking to be able to skate on your own recreationally, it can take 4-10 lessons to learn the very basic skills. If you decide to progress past the very basics, it can take quite a while.

How old do you have to be to skate for Disney On Ice? ›

All children two years and older must have a ticket. Children under two years old are admitted free provided they sit on a parent or guardian's lap. However, public event laws vary nationwide from county to county, and some arenas may require all patrons, regardless of age, to have a ticket.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Reed Wilderman

Last Updated:

Views: 5940

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (52 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Reed Wilderman

Birthday: 1992-06-14

Address: 998 Estell Village, Lake Oscarberg, SD 48713-6877

Phone: +21813267449721

Job: Technology Engineer

Hobby: Swimming, Do it yourself, Beekeeping, Lapidary, Cosplaying, Hiking, Graffiti

Introduction: My name is Reed Wilderman, I am a faithful, bright, lucky, adventurous, lively, rich, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.