Review: Disney on Ice - Passport to Adventure at Birmingham NIA
Sparkles, strobe lights and lots of squealing. It can only mean one thing – the Disney on Ice troupe has come skating into Birmingham for its annual showdown at the NIA.
This year's show, The Passport to Adventure, is based around four journeys told through the eyes of Minnie, Mickey, Donald and Daisy as they travel to the magical worlds of The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Lilo & Stitch before finally stopping off in London for Peter Pan.
Every little prince and princess in the crowd squealed with joy as Simba, Nala, Ariel and Flounder burst into the ice rink, with each move perfectly choreographed accompanied by some great Disney classics such as Circle of Life and Under the Sea. Even the adults couldn't resist a spot of chair dancing as Elvis songs ushered in the Lilo & Stitch routine.
But it was the final instalment that left children gasping in awe as Peter Pan and co flew through the air accompanied by fairy dust, fireworks and dry ice. The characters made full use of the stage, spinning and twisting in the air as they acted out the classic children's tale.
Producer Kenneth Feld and his team did a wonderful job of recreating the magic of Disney, particularly the lighting and costumes. From the terrifying moment that sea demon Ursula emerged into the arena in a cloud of smoke, to the Edwardian costumes in Peter Pan on a backdrop of London Bridge, each setting perfectly tailored to the story. And the team of skaters must be credited for their athleticism in keeping up with the fast-paced nature of the show.
However, in trying to maintain a high-tempo atmosphere the show lacked any intimacy with its audience. The main characters did very little to engage with the young crowd who were literally screaming for attention. And rather than speaking into a mic, the skaters lip-synched to voiceovers which detracted from the ambience that you get from a live show.
Tickets range from £14 to £37 per person, and if you factor in food and drinks then you will make light work of £100. But this is an annual event, and is a truly spellbinding experience for children and adults alike.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable show and worth the money – I'm just left with one problem – Christmas has a lot to live up to this year if it is to emulate the magic of Disney on Ice.
The show runs until Sunday, November 4
By Melissa Coombs
