Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder is the latest offering transporting Melbournians into a world of enchantment and nostalgia. Staged on one of the coldest and darkest days of the year, the excitement on the faces of thousands of children entering Rod Laver Arena was palpable.
The story arc centred around the capture and rescue of Peter Pan’s Tinkerbell, igniting younger imaginations with a sense of adventure. While the narrative was somewhat thin, its simplicity ensured the focus remained on the enchanting characters and their thrilling escapades, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish.
Essentially an icy greatest hits show, the set list was carefully crafted to showcase a variety of Disney favourites, old and new. Golden oldies such as "Be Our Guest" from Beauty and the Beast and "Andy's Room" from Toy Story no doubt hit the demographic of many parents in the audience. The modern classic Moana was subject to a mini retelling (starring Sarah Dalton), with a beautiful sequence including hits "How Far I'll Go," "You're Welcome," "I Am Moana," and "Know Who You Are."
Frozen’s icy magic (starring Ryan Santee, Marina Bolam and Kirstie Nelson) enchanted with “Frozen Heart”, featured creative prop and ramp work from the Ice Harvesters, upstaging the iconic "Let It Go."
In addition to world-class ice skating, the audience were treated to exhilarating aerial performances. Coco’s vibrant "Un Poco Loco" Act 1 finale featured skillful acrobats soaring atop sway poles (think Eurovision 2019’s Zero Gravity).
Visually, the production was a feast for the eyes, with elaborate costumes and a gorgeous lighting and projecting design capturing the essence of each Disney story.
In a world where the cost of living seems to rise faster than a magic carpet, it would remiss not to warn families of some eye-wateringly expensive merchandise. Be assured that there is enough magic onstage providing many more memories for children than an overpriced bubble wand!
Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder celebrated the timeless allure of Disney, with a spectacle to inspire audiences of all ages.
Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder tours Australia in June-July 2023. Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au/disneyonice
Images supplied by Feld Entertainment