It's almost carnival time for the 100 Mile House Figure Skating Club and the skaters couldn't be more excited about presenting the show they're calling, The Magic Toy Box.
It runs on March 3 at the South Cariboo Rec. Centre and promises to be packed full of great costumes, upbeat music, skilled skating and over-the-top props, but there's another very special something that people won't want to miss.
The club has been fortunate enough to book Jeremy Ten, current Canadian national senior bronze medallist, to be their featured guest skater. He'll be performing two solo skates, with one in each half of the program. On the Friday prior to carnival, he'll hold a skating clinic for club members.
Club president Jen Plewes says Ten is the "wow factor" in the ice show this year.
"There are no words to describe our excitement for having him. The younger girls in the club can't wait, and for some, it will be the chance of a lifetime."
The Magic Toy Box features close to 55 of the club's own members who range in age from five years old to late teens. There are 23 separate numbers on the program, including group performances, duets and solos. All have their own fabulous costumes and lively music that club coaches have carefully chosen. On ice, expect to see the Potato Head gang, Strawberry Shortcake, Transformers, all kinds of superheroes, Barbies and Webkinz, to name a few.
Danyelle Howard, the artistically talented daughter of club coach LaVern Howard, has taken on the huge job of creating props. LaVern and husband, Jerry, are also pitching in.
Plewes says the props are big, bright and unbelievable and a notch above what they've been used to in recent years. They'll also be going all out with the lighting.
"We really want people to leave thinking that the show was awesome."
Throughout the show, in the lobby, the club will be selling flowers, skating trinkets and keepsake programs.
There is maximum seating for 600 in the arena and Plewes is recommending that people get their tickets in advance at Pharmasave, Donex and 100 Mile Sport Shop. They will also be available at the door and the price at all locations is $10 for adults; $5 for youth aged five to 18 years and children four and under get in free of charge.
Show time is 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m.
