programs

National Showcase Skater Guide

Skating under spotlights is only scary until you have done it and figured out how to make it work. Then, it's like skating in a new rink - not a problem unless you make it into one.

It's a lot like driving at night when oncoming cars shines headlights at you. But it's easier than that because spotlights are usually above your line of sight, not at eye level.

First, it takes a minute for your eyes to adjust so expect that. Don't ever look into the spotlights. Look under them and between them. Try to stay aware of the barriers; they will help you know where you are. Don't look at the ice either; you'll get reflected light.

• Delete any jumps you don't do with style and flow and confidence. You get no credit at all for jump difficulty in showcase, but errors lower marks.
• Skate and perform with energy! Weak performance gets weak marks.
• Look at and play to the audience and judges. Ignore them and they will be happy to ignore you.
• Exaggerate your gestures and the physical aspects of performance. You are a small creature in a large space, seen from a distance. Good luck and a great time to you!