For the first time since 2019, the Midland Figure Skating Club will host an ice show production, “Encore! Stage and Screen,” at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14 at the Midland Civic Arena.
More than 40 skaters from across the Great Lakes Bay Region ranging in age from 4 to adult, representing skill levels from beginner through U.S. Figure Skating gold test level along with state high school champions and regional and sectional finalists will take part in the show.
“While we offer multiple performance opportunities for our skaters throughout the year, the spring ice show always generates the most excitement,” show director Teri Haag said. “It’s a full production and the skaters really love performing under the spotlights and in front of a big crowd.”
As the show grows in popularity, MFSC is expanding its capabilities to keep pace and provide a professional-like experience for all involved. Toward that end, the club purchased four spotlights with a grant of $4,156 from the Hemlock Semiconductor donor-Advised fund. The grant was made in response to the club’s “Light Up MFSC!” request.
“Performing under spotlight provides a special experience for skaters and spectators alike, but rental lights can be cost prohibitive; up to $2,000 for a single show,” MFSC President Duane Boswell noted. “Thanks to the generosity of the Hemlock Semiconductor Donor-Advised Fund, we were able to purchase our own that we can use in shows for years to come.”
Since the club puts on summer and holiday exhibitions as well as the spring production, the lights are sure to see plenty of use.
Skaters are already hard at work practicing their routines for the show. The performances are set to music from popular films and musicals ranging from Disney to James Bond. The show features individual numbers as well as group routines, capped by a finale showcasing the entire cast.