AS “Disney on Ice Presents 100 Years of Wonder” glides into SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, it provides the audience with a throwback to animated movie classics, phenomenal skating skills, tons of sing-a-longs and smiles on faces.
Ongoing until Jan. 7, 2024, the show celebrates Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. For this year’s production, Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy take viewers on an adventure through the Disney universe, journeying to some of our favorite worlds – a realm where courage, adventure and heartfelt stories intertwine.
There’s nothing more entertaining than watching empowered Disney Princesses along with favorites from other Disney delights explore the depths, heights and horizons of their dreams by fearlessly embracing the unknown to create their own “happily ever after”.
Audiences can venture out on the high seas with Moana and Maui, in a voyage of true determination and self-discovery. They can also join sisters Anna and Elsa along with Olaf and Kristoff as they brave the unexpected terrain of the North Mountain and overcome the fear that has taken hold of the kingdom.
Watch Ariel yearn to explore life above the waves and be inspired by her will to risk it all for curiosity, the thrill of adventure and true love. You can also get enthralled by Lumiere as he leads a culinary cabaret of magnificent proportions, and along with a cast of cutlery and serviettes, invites Belle to be their guest in the enchanted castle. Lastly, you can’t miss Cinderella’s dreams taking shape when her hard work and kindness land her amid a royal ball.
At the same time, the characters and audience are collectively on a mission to rescue poor Tinkerbell who had her wand stolen and has been locked in a lantern by Captain Hook’s pirates from “Peter Pan”.
The only way to save her? Solve the clues by collecting magical items to fill the magic meter – from Aladdin’s lamp, the magic rose from “Beauty and the Beast” to even Miguel’s guitar in “Coco”. Every little thing leads to a new segment that exceeds the previous one. It’s magical, immersive, exciting and inspires beaming smiles of all ages across the venue.
Iconic tales
After an opening number which consists of trampoline tricks and an introduction to Mickey’s Crew, spectators are then taken on an adventure. First up on the magic sphere is “Beauty and the Beast”. Meet Belle in her blue and white village dress, gliding into the scene and joined by an enchanted talking antique wooden clock and golden candelabra, also known as Cogsworth and Lumière.
Sure enough, the audience will be entertained by a rousing performance of “Be Our Guest”, complete with dancing giant cutlery and serviettes. The most extraordinary part? The aerial acrobatics consisting of seven people including Belle twirling from the ceiling.
Be reunited with your favorite characters from “Toy Story” such as Rex, Ham, Bo Peep, Jessie,Woodyand Buzz Lightyear.The team requested the help of Sarge and his tiny green soldiers to remove a ball (naturally in the design of Pixar’s iconic ball) from a certain spot so the toys could get back into their box before Andy came back.
The “Toy Story” segment is entertaining and funny. It is super fun to watch them try to fulfill their mission while running amuck.
Seeing Moana glide on her boat and meet a giant magical stingray, much like the movie, makes for a heartwarming moment. Maui joining Moana to perform “You’re Welcome” transforms the entire ice stage into a massive close-up of Maui’s magical and moving tattoos.
During Moana’s segment conclusion, the ice is made to look like a moving ocean thanks to the power of projection, which becomes even more breathtaking when it changes and the ground appears to split, making a perfect path for Moana to restore the heart of Te Fiti.
The final segment before the interval features “Coco”. This part displays the cast in gorgeous Mexican cultural styled outfits with a modern twist – UV lighting makes them glow. There are even two sway pole aerialists who swing about above some of the audience, which is both impressive and mesmerizing.
After a short recess, get ready to continue the mission. Upon a treasure chest and in full view in the middle of the ice rink sits a gold lamp. Touching this lamp would reveal none other than Genie, who is joined by Aladdin in singing “You Ain’t Never Had a Friend Like Me”. This is followed by an on-ice dance duet by Aladdin and Jasmine. Patrons watch in awe as they perform various difficult tricks on the ice.
If Sebastian performing “Under the Sea” with colorful sea creatures isn’t enough to floor you, seeing Eric and Arieldoing a romantic “sky dance” is enough to leave you speechless.
“Frozen” is the perfect finale with Kristoff, Anna, Olaf, and of course, Elsa. Having the ice workers from “Frozen” perform “The Frozen Heart” just like the movie is a delight to witness. Seeing them move in unison while cutting up the ice is great to watch. Its music is catchy yet powerful in its own way, and so are the performances in this production. And don’t worry, they don’t really cut up the ice.
While “Let it Go” goads fans to sing along to it, snowflakes which appear whenever Elsa waves her hands is breathtaking. The cast sliding down from high places and jumping over obstacles in giant leaps and somersaults is awe-inspiring.
Enchanting performances
“Disney on Ice” has been captivating audiences worldwide with its enchanting performances for several decades. Its “100 Years of Wonder” is a remarkable tribute to the timeless stories and characters that have shaped the Disney legacy. This magical show takes spectators through a century of Disney’s unparalleled storytelling, combining ice skating, dazzling costumes and breathtaking performances to create an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.
The production celebrates the rich history of Disney animation, taking spectators on a captivating journey through the most beloved tales of the past century. From Disney classics such as “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “Cinderella” to modern favorites like “Frozen”, “Moana” and Disney and Pixar’s “Coco”, the show brings to life the magic and wonder of these iconic stories.
The show’s strength lies in its incredible cutting-edge ice-skating performances. Talented figure skaters bring the beloved Disney characters to life through their graceful movements and impressive routines. Audiences are treated to breathtaking spins, jumps and lifts as the skaters glide across the ice, effortlessly recreating the magic of Disney movies.
The show’s elaborate costumes and stunning set designs add an extra layer of enchantment to the performance. Every detail, from the shimmering gowns of Disney princesses to the intricate outfits of beloved characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse and Buzz Lightyear, is meticulously crafted to transport the audience into the Disney universe.
The vibrant colors, innovative lighting and dazzling special effects, alluring lights and beautifully designed sets create a visually stunning spectacle that immerses spectators in the magic of Disney.
Audiences are sure to be transported to a world of imagination where heroes of every kind seek to fulfill their dreams.
No Disney experience would be complete without its iconic music, and “Disney on Ice Presents 100 Years of Wonder” is no exception. Audiences are treated to unforgettable musical moments as they sing along to their favorite Disney songs, performed live during the show. From “Let It Go” from “Frozen” to “Under the Sea” from “The Little Mermaid”, the familiar melodies bring back cherished memories while creating new ones.
The show is a celebration that transcends generations. It allows children to experience the magic of Disney firsthand while providing a nostalgic journey for adults who grew up with these timeless tales. The show’s universal appeal ensures that everyone in the family can enjoy the enchantment of “Disney on Ice” together.
The performance is a mesmerizing production that brings together the beloved characters, stories and songs that have captured the hearts of millions worldwide. It is a celebration of the enduring magic of Disney that continues to captivate audiences, reminding us why these stories have remained beloved for a century.
