Disney on Ice - A Family Outing
WRITTEN BY
Janna Nadler
Who can resist Mickey and the gang? Disney just seems to get it right when it comes to family outings and entertainment; that’s why we were so excited to head down to the Rogers Centre for Disney on Ice presents Mickey and Minnie’s Magical Journey.
My husband, who has a slight obsession for all things Disney, was looking forward to taking in the music and waving hello to the Characters (yes, he actually waved). I was looking forward to the figure skating and family-time. The kids were looking forward to the ice cream and cotton candy. Don’t get me wrong, they were really excited for the show – in conjunction with the snacks.
We arrived early and settled into our seats. Familiar music played in the background: Mary Poppins, The Little Mermaid. My daughter began reading the program (my son had gone with my husband to get – surprise – snacks). I checked my blackberry for e-mails (yes, I’m one of those moms); checked on the baby, who we’d left behind at grandma’s; consulted my play-date agenda for the winter-break… the lights went down and the show began.
Jackpot.
The seats in front of us were occupied by small children and we had a clear view of the stage.
I am five feet tall. Let me tell you that small luxuries, such as this, matter.
Rats.
The kid in front of me has one of those light-up, swirling, noisy, hand-held, costs-a-fortune-impulse-buys (available for purchase both out by the concessions and on either side of the stage). All around us, Disney items were available for purchase and consumption: taste, touch, hear, see, and smell. We were immersed. But, this is to be expected, I think.
Four Disney musicals – The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Lilo and Stitch and Peter Pan – are woven into one interconnected show. The storylines are condensed, but retain the essential moments and, most importantly, our favourite songs.
I’m not trying to be sappy here, but the best ice dancing occurred during the love songs (“Can you feel the love tonight,” “Kiss the Girl”). I must give credit, though, to the 15-20 monkeys at the beginning who really just stole the show from Mickey et.al. Perhaps, though, monkeys are naturally better figure skaters than mice?
My daughter was amazed at how “flexible” the dancers were. She also wondered why Mickey “makes all those hand motions” when he talks.
The variety of sets, props, and costumes were particularly impressive. Ariel looked longingly at Prince Eric on the upper-stage; Tinkerbell and Peter Pan (suspended from the ceiling) “flew” over the stage; small fireworks punctuated the storyline; a huge inflatable crocodile finally ate Captain Hook.
My children liked the bubbles released into the air during “Under the Sea.”
For Disney enthusiasts, the show was “classic” Disney. We even clapped for Tinkerbell (you know, to show her we “believe”). There were numerous familiar references to Disney storylines, characters, and songs. It wasn’t exactly “fresh,” but it was pleasantly nostalgic.
My children said they liked the funny parts the best.
Yes, Disney still does slapstick humour; and, yes, children still get a “kick” out of it (pun intended; you can all groan now). Goofy keeps falling on the ice and dropping his suitcases. Captain Hook kicks Smee and calls him silly names.
My favourite part? I really did love having some special family time. I was happy to give my children these special treats – an outing, a show, sticky-messy junk food…
The moment I was most impressed by Disney? That would be when I found a small, packaged wet-nap at the bottom of that bag of cotton candy.
Double-jackpot.
Disney On Ice presents Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey is taking audiences on a fun-filled tour to four exciting destinations filled with favorite Disney friends at the Rogers Centre in Toronto from December 25, 2010 to January 2, 2011. You can save $5 dollars on the upcoming show by using the promo code BLOG. This offer is not valid on Rinkside, Front Row or VIP seats. Some restrictions may apply. Tickets can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.ca or by calling 416-870-8000. Learn more at www.rogerscentre.com or at www.disneyonice.com.
Tags: 2010, 2011, children's theatre, disney on ice, family outing, Janna Nadler, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, review, Rogers Centre, Toronto, winter break
