Annie - Fant-ice-tic

The Quesnel Figure Skating Club closed out their season last Saturday with a presentation of Annie on Ice.

More than 40 skaters took to the ice with big smiles on their faces, some waving to the crowd of family and friends, as they performed their interpretation of the hit Broadway musical Annie.

Choreographed by coach Jo-Ann Nadalin, the 55-minute show did a wonderful job showcasing the talent of local figure skaters, including Olivia Marleau in the lead role.

“I was a bit nervous, but it was really fun,” Marleau said.

“I liked the choreography and the routines.”

The club spent the last two weeks practicing for the two shows on Saturday, which gave performers plenty of opportunity to learn the lyrics to the songs, or not.

“You could sing-along, or say coconuts and pineapples,” Marleau said.

Learning the lyrics was not what proccupied Marleau as she skated with a big grin on her face, nor was it the jumps she had performed, rather it was the potential of a wardrobe malfunction.

“I was worried my wig would come off,” she said tugging at the edges of her wig.

Other than making sure the kids are ready on cue, which in some cases required quick changes, Nadalin said the only tricky part is matching the skater to the role.

“This is an optional activity for the kids,” Nadalin said.

“So I don’t know who will participate until later.”

To make sure roles are matched with skill, Nadalin said she uses test scores, commitment and personality.

Nadalin, who began preparations for the show last summer, was pleased with the performance.

“I think the kids did great,” Nadalin said.

“Especially considering they only had two weeks to practice, to learn their lines and get into their characters.

“They brought them further to life than I thought they ever would.”