3rd Annual Young Artist's Showcase

Young Artist's Showcase is a competition for budding choreographers. I found out about the showcases and viewed some of the stellar performances on another skating blog that I follow. Here I'm posting two--as the British would say--"cracking" performances. One is choreographed and performed by British skater Mark Hanretty. The second is choreographed by Garrett Kling, performed by junior skater Madison Vinci. Do yourselves a favor and watch both of these stellar performances!

Job Application Inspiration: The marvelous Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao's 2003 World Freeskate to "Turandot"

How incredible is this program? Gives me chills every time!

Michelle Kwan's "Dante's Prayer" by Loreena McKennitt

In honor of finishing my 16-week student teaching placement and my last Master's of Education course last night, here is one of my favorite Michelle Kwan performance: "Dante's Prayer" by Loreena McKennitt. Here, Michelle skates "Dante's Prayer" after winning her second World Championship in 1998. This performance reminds me once again why I love Michelle's skating. It is honest, pure, beautiful, elegant, and heartfelt. As commentator Dick Button says, "When the simplest moves are done beautifully they become the most elegant." Enjoy!

Elizabeth Punsalan and Jerod Swallow's 1998 Olympic "Tango" Freeskate

This is one of my very favorite ice dance programs. Totally wonderful. Also totally underscored by the judges, but that's a conversation for another day. For now, let's celebrate the excellence of Elizabeth and Jerod's program. Enjoy!

Robert Wagenhoffer's "Crying" by Roy Orbison and K.D. Lang

I discovered this program on You Tube about a year ago. I delayed in posting it because I envisioned myself writing something profound that would match the genius of this skater and his performance, but the words never materialized. I realize now that I cannot wait for the right words to describe the value of this performer and his skating because no amount of time will ever help me to achieve that goal. The important thing is to post this video for everyone to appreciate and cherish. It is possible that this is one of the most beautiful fusions of art and sport that I have ever seen. I am struck by Robert's control of the blade, the fact that he makes every movement unique and fresh, every movement full of heart. Robert's lack of weakness and beauty of performance is astounding. I hope you enjoy this performance as much as I do.

Michelle Kwan's 2005 "Spartacus" Short Program

Always inspirational.

Brian Orser's 1984 Olympic Freeskate

Love this!!