Monday, January 31, 2022

Elvis Stojko's "Techno Hip Hop" short program at the 1994 Olympics

Back in the winter of 1994, while Alexei Urmonov was wearing puffed sleeves and shaking his knees to classical Russian music, Elvis Stojko was skating in studded black leather to techno hip hop music, and I loved every minute of it! I bet these stuffy, traditional European judges had no clue how to respond to this. So refreshing that no matter what was expected of him in the very conventional, conservative world of figure skating, Elvis always played by his own rules and stayed true to who he is. Sit back and watch Elvis show you how a short program at the Olympics is done!

Master on Ice: Yuzuru Hanyu's Chopin Ballade No 1

Mind-blowing.

Jimmy Ma's "Turn Down for What" by DJ Snake/Lil Jon

Iconic figure skating.

Stéphane Lambiel & Deniss Vasiljevs: Chopin Nocturne C Minor op. 48, No 1

Teacher and student sharing the same ice. Two talented artists.

Thursday, January 6, 2022

Nancy Kerrigan's "Desperate Love" short program from the 1994 Olympics

Twenty eight years ago today in Detroit, Nancy Kerrigan was attacked at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. It's a dark day in figure skating history, but out of the ashes came a courageous and triumphant performance from Nancy Kerrigan at the 1994 Olympics, and an onslaught of media attention and interest in the sport that resulted in an explosion of figure skating competitions and shows on TV. This technical program is one of my favorites becuase it's one of my first memories of skating. The day after the techincal program, we had a snow day and I was home from school. I remember watching this program over and over. I'd never seen anything more elegant and beautiful.

Michelle Kwan's "East of Eden."

Yesterday, Michelle Kwan announced on social media that she gave birth to her first daughter, Kalista Belle. This was a total surprise, as the skating star had kept her pregnancy a complete secret! Congratulations to Michelle and her family! In honor of her good news, here's one of her Michelle's most magical performances ever: "East of Eden" at the 1998 World Pro Championships. Commentator Sandra Bezic said, "For Michelle it's not about the jumps, it's about the passion to skate! She translates the feeling of flight, I think, better than anyone."

Mao Asada's "Piano Concerto No.2" from the 2014 Sochi Olympics

This gives me chills every time. Mao has the heart of a champion.

"Edges of Spain" from 1993 Stars on Ice featuring Kristi Yamaguchi, Katarina Witt, Gordeeva & Grinkov, and Brian Orser.

Classic skating from the very best.