A Theatrical Figure Skating Competition:
U.S. Figure Skating's National Showcase is a figure skating competition all about theatrical skating. The event gives opportunties for figure skaters to be artistic and creative.
Events and Categories:
The competition includes events for single skaters, duets, small ensembles and production numbers. Categories include light entertainment, dramatic entertainment, and improvisation.
Spotlights:
Singles, duets, and groups compete under spotlights.
History of Theatrical Skating:
Theatrical figure skating was first introduced in 1974 by long-time skater and judge Jack Curtis who was then a member of the Los Angeles Figure Skating Club. Shortly after that, Ice Skating Institute added similar events to their recreational competitions. The first official U.S. Figure Skating National Showcase event took place in 2004.
Creative Skating:
Some very creative skating is done at these competitions. Skaters of all ages enjoy dressing up in costumes and having fun on the ice. It is common to see many boys skating to Star Wars themes, girls dressed as queens, and skaters wearing bathing suits on the ice. Some skaters attach full size dolls with skates to themselves and skate with "a partner." Props are used.
Fun:
National Showcase events are all about fun and enjoying skating.
Participants:
Competitors of all ages participate in National Showcase. Skaters come from all over the world.
How to Qualify:
Single skaters who participate in National Showcase must qualify by placing in the top four at a theatrical or artistic figure skating competition during the previous year.
