Review: DISNEY ON ICE 100 YEARS OF WONDER at Osaka Jo Hall

"Disney on Ice," which has been delivering special moments that transcend generations and time, celebrates its 100th anniversary of the founding of The Walt Disney Company this year. Joining Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy on the magical journey by Magical Automobile are beloved Disney works like "Frozen," "Aladdin," "The Lion King," and "Moana."

Two friendly MCs dressed in the Disney style costumes appeared in the audience before the show stars. They interacted enthusiastically with children while walking around, engaging in call-and-response and clapping, warming up the entire venue. The opening, which began with “Mary Poppins” flying performance, was already packed with power. The use of streetlamp props for pole dancing and BMX bike performances generated high expectations for what kind of spectacle awaited next. The appearance of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse triggered cheers echoing throughout the venue. Being able to hear your hometown’s name said by Mickey was a unique touch that only Disney On Ice can deliver. It drew the audience into the world of Disney On Ice with cars gliding on the ice and fiery effects, creating thrilling moments even for adults.

As the “The Incredibles" and "Moana" segments concluded, a blizzard set the stage for "Frozen." A cylindrical screen suspended in the center of the rink descended, creating a translucent effect that caught my eye. The multiple aerial hoop performances captured snow controlled by Elsa during "Let It Go" were impressive enough to constitute a captivating this segment. Elsa even joined the aerial performance at the end, creating a continuous stream of surprises. The well-arranged music further enhanced the performances.

Accompanied by the iconic opening of "Circle of Life," Rafiki from "The Lion King" made an entrance. Monkeys hanging upside down from four vine-like ropes and animals gliding on the ice simulated the savannah. Simba and his childhood friend, Nala followed, dashing through the animal ensemble with acrobatic spins and jumps, perfectly capturing their mischievousness. A couple of flamingos appeared during "Hakuna Matata" at the front row of the arena, bridging the gap between the audience and the stage. While "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" emphasized gracefulness, the core number "He Lives in You" showcased the animals uniting to present their power.

The "Aladdin" segment based on its live-action film, prominently featured the cylindrical transparent screen. While synchronizing with the projected movie on the transparent screen descended onto the rink, Aladdin and other skaters performed "Friend Like Me" in the same choreography from the movie. As the song reached its finale, the transparent screen ascended, revealing Genie emerging from the center of the cylinder. Following that, "Prince Ali" played, prompting skaters clad in costumes reminiscent of the movie characters started to parade. The incorporation of aerial and line dance performances in a movie-like grand act garnered thunderous applause from the audience. In the pair performance of "A Whole New World," which featured flying acts by Jasmine gracefully soared through the air, was so enchanting as if I was watching aerial figure skating. 

Incorporating interactive elements such as balls being thrown into the audience, there are plenty of engaging experiences for children to enjoy, and for adults, there is a plethora of gripping moments in Disney On Ice. The term "skating show" couldn't encompass the extent of the acrobatic performances showcased. From the very beginning to the end, the show exuded a continuous grandeur, prompting thoughts of "Why is this so enjoyable to watch?" and inciting an immediate desire to see it again.

Photo Credit:[Disney characters and artwork ©Disney, Disney/Pixar characters ©Disney/Pixar]

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