PREVIEW: STARS ON ICE AT ROGERS ARENA – MAY 18, 2023

It will be an evening to remember. The Canadian finale of Stars On Ice returns to a familiar venue in Rogers Arena on May 18, and it will mark Kurt Browning’s final date on the tour – albeit on home soil, as Browning will be joining the U.S. portion shortly after to complete his swan song. The most consistent performer on the Canadian tour, he is leaving behind an unmatched legacy.  

Returning in 2022 after a pandemic hiatus, the tour continues to be a force in the figure skating world. Among this year’s cast, fans will be elated to see reigning World Champions Madison Chock & Evan Bates, Belgium’s Loena Hendrickx, and the recently retired, always charismatic Keegan Messing. And that’s only a sample of the talent on tap!

Elvis Stojko will be joined by fellow Canadian icon Patrick Chan, who is returning to the tour for the first time in four years. Chan, known for his artistry and elegance on ice, will be rivaled (only in the friendly kind, of course) by American Jason Brown. In April, Brown captained Team USA to gold at the World Team Trophy in Japan. Doing their part to capture the team title, Alexa Knierim & Brandon Frazier had a pair of first place skates to end their spectacular season. 

The graceful Piper Gilles & Paul Poirier, a favourite of ours’ to capture, and two-time national champion Madeline Schizas will round out the Canadian contingent. Returning from last year’s tour, two-time U.S. Champion Alissa Czisny, and four-time Japanese Champion Satoko Miyahara.  

After perusing social media, we know there will be programs to “To Build a Home” (The Cinematic Orchestra), The Backstreet Boys, “Brand New” (Ben Rector) and Journey’s “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”

We are always impressed by the slick and emotive choreography that showcases the skaters’ skills, in jumps, lifts, energy or speed, likely a combination of the qualities that make these skaters elite. Both individual and ensemble routines will fill the ice, and we can’t wait to see the programs live, with crowd interaction as a given!

The tour offers discounts for seniors, CAA members, Entertainment Books holders, groups of 10+ and family/kids (12 and under with the purchase of one full-priced adult ticket). It’s the perfect opportunity for an outing with friends, family and community groups! 

For further information and promotions details, visit their official website and purchase your tickets through Ticketmaster.

Written by The Permanent Rain Press