Courage takes centre stage in the latest Disney on Ice show: Dream Big, which begins its 12-day run at the O2 Arena on December 22. Fortunately, courage is something the franchise’s heroes and heroines are in no short supply of. Prepare to feel thoroughly inspired by high-flying jumps, daring acrobatics and world-class figure skating as seven of Disney’s most adventurous leading characters whisk audiences through the tales of their bravest feats, writes Holly O’Mahony…1
The all-new production, produced by Feld Entertainment, sees several of Disney’s well-known stories brought to life side-by-side on the icy stage. Disney stalwarts Mickey and Minnie Mouse lead the procession of characters, bringing a sprinkling of nostalgia for older audience members.
Viewers also get to join the fearless Moana and the demigod Maui, on their quest to restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti; party like it’s Day of the Dead as Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco brings the festivities to the ice; watch Rapunzel, Cinderella and Belle as they discover how to make their own magic; travel to the wintry world of Arendelle with sisters Anna and Elsa; and witness Jasmine discovering a whole new world.
Figure skater Callum Leach, who plays Frozen’s loveable ice harvester Kristoff in the show, gives us a peek behind the scenes…
Holly O’Mahony: How did you come to be a skater-performer with Disney On Ice?
Callum Leach: I joined Disney On Ice in 2012 at the age of 19. I’ve previously toured with their shows 100 Years of Magic, Worlds of Enchantment, Let’s Celebrate, Worlds of Fantasy, Mickey and Friends and Dream Big.
HOM: Tell us about the current show. How does it differ from past Disney on Ice stories?
CL: The show has a lot of stories and characters, from Mickey and Minnie to princesses including Cinderella and Tiana. I portray the role of Kristoff thanks to the show having a great Frozen segment – everyone loves to sing along to ‘Let It Go’.
HOM: Putting Disney characters on ice skates has proved a winning formula. What do you think makes it so magical?
CL: It’s a unique chance for the audience to see Disney characters live on ice.
HOM: Be honest… how hard is it to skate gracefully in a giant costume?
CL: Honestly not that difficult! Practice makes perfect!
HOM: What do you love most about your job?
CL: Reactions on the audiences faces make performing worthwhile. I also love travelling and getting to visit a different city every week.
HOM: Lastly, what do you hope little audience members take away from seeing your latest show?
CL: I hope we give them the best Disney experience of their life!
Disney on Ice’s Dream Big is on at the O2 Arena, Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX. From December 22 – January 2, times vary.
Admission: £34 – £88.
www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/disney-on-ice-presents-dream-big
