Disney On Ice: 100 Years of Magic, Genting Arena, Birmingham - review

My best friend of twenty years has religiously seen Disney On Ice sporting her favourite pair of Mickey ears, so I had high expectations for the show as we skipped into the Genting Arena surrounded by pint-sized princes and princesses.

The cast took to the stage in vibrant red and white gym gear and started their warm up exercise, with everyone around me jumping to attention to copy the moves - Disney on Ice doesn't just attract new fans, it has a base of hardcore Disney fanatics that know the show inside and out.

Once pumped, the crowd were ready to woop and holler as Mickey and Minnie mouse started processions - helping the lovable Donald Duck and Goofy make their very own movie.

The show took the audience on a journey through some of the most enchanting moments of Disney history, told through the unbelievable strength and stamina of figurative skating.

Most of the show I sat there thinking "it can't get any better than this, surely?" and I was surprised once more with blazing fireworks, stunning props and intricate costumes that brought the animated tales to life.

I watched Pinnochio become a real boy and ignite the room in blazing light, I sat on the edge of my seat as Marlin searched for Nemo accompanied by a gigantic animatronic version of sea turtle Crush and I felt my eyes sparkle as I watched my favourite Disney prince and princess couples glide effortlessly across the ice in a romantic waltz.

The first half of the show mainly focused on hit Disney films Beauty and the Beast and Frozen - telling their stories with intricately choreographed dance to their popular songs.

Frozen exceeded all of my expectations with daredevil stunts, fake snow littering the rink and props appearing as if magic had actually become a reality in this room.

The interval could not end quick enough so that I could delve into the second half - and my inner child burst into hysterics as my favourite Disney film Mulan took the stage by storm in a song and dance spectacular.

Ice skating met martial arts and a Chinese New Year parade before the beloved Toy Story characters took over for a simple, heart-warming dance to You've Got A Friend In Me.

My sides split as a line of more than twenty genies took to the stage in spooky symmetry to tell the story of Aladdin, providing a bizarre and hilarious spectacle as the multiple genies rolled and flipped across the ice with ease.

The Lion King and the Circle Of Life provided the perfect finale for the show - people of all ages and backgrounds had gathered in one room to celebrate the magic that is Disney with a spectacular atmosphere.

It is easy to see why Disney is the most beloved film franchise of the past 100 years, whether in film or donning ice skates Disney manages to create a charming and mystical spectacular that captures the hearts and imaginations of all those involved.

By Becci Stanley