South China Morning Post
By Andrew Sun
Russian figure skaters have a reputation for scoring well on artistic marks but falling short on technical merit. That's not the case with the Imperial Ice Stars show, The Sleeping Beauty on Ice.
This group of Russians, bolstered by a few performers from Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Germany, has created a rich and colourful show. But what's truly astonishing is the production has turned the Lyric Theatre into a mini ice rink. It's a technical feat that is hard to ignore as you watch up to 22 skaters gliding around a theatre stage.
As for the art, Sleeping Beauty on Ice amounts to an extreme-sports version of Tchaikovsky's ballet. Movements are faster, the jumps are higher and dancer's passes are more dangerous.
Cramped on the smaller surface, it's a different experience than a show on a full-size rink. There isn't the same fluidity, spedd or spatial elegance. However, in this set-up the performances are more initmate and energetic. Tightly bunched, it's often a dizzying kaleidoscope of spins and weaves.
Unlike Olympic competitions, don't expect too many triple axels or quadruple toe-loops. The emphasis is on artistic choreography. The story of the Sleeping Beauty, and the Prince who wakes her with a smooch, is interpreted with balletic flair.
That's not to say the show relies on plot. The audience is too caught up with the effortless skating to worry about storyline.
Full of motion and fairy-tale enchantment, it's a great show for children. Figure skating fans will delight in the glittering frilly costumes, ornate elaborate sets and endless twirls and spins.