Spectators wrapped themselves in blankets and filled the stands at the Shawville arena on Saturday morning for the Shawville Figure Skating Club’s annual holiday performance, this year titled “An Enchanted Christmas.”
Approximately 100 skaters of varying levels got to show off their skills to enthusiastic fans.
Teams as small as two and as large as 15 performed routines to different festive songs to celebrate the holiday season.
Performers included both seasoned figure skaters who had been with the club for more than 10 years, as well as young skaters participating in CanSkate, the national learn-to-skate program.
“Our CanSkate program would not be possible without all of the helpers,” said Shelley Heaphy, president of the Shawville Figure Skating Club, referring to the many more experienced skaters who help teach those just starting. “It’s nice that this is built in a way that teaches our younger generation the importance of volunteer work.”
Brayleigh Barr and McKenna Kluke performed a duet to Candy Cane Lane by Sia, dressed in sparkly red skirts.
Both have been skating for more than 10 years and also work with the CanSkate groups.
“The show is definitely the highlight,” Kluke said. “And getting to skate with my friends.”
They said that the CanSkate groups have only been working on their routine for two sessions and both were impressed with how much they learned.
“It impressed me how much they could learn from just a week practicing,” Barr said. “It was impressive to see them go out in front of a big crowd to show what they learned.”
Heaphy said that it’s great to see people find an activity to enjoy.
“I personally feel like the most important part is finding a sport or activity that brings you joy,” Heaphy said.
“When I see the skaters excited on that show morning, getting ready, I love that atmosphere because it’s rewarding to know that they’re truly happy and proud of their accomplishments.”
Heaphy hopes that for the next session, the club continues to grow, whether that be more people joining the executive or more skaters thriving.
“I hope that our coaches continue to be willing to give so much of their time to the club,” Heaphy said. “And I hope that children who love the sport continue to feel inspired by coming to skate.”
The holiday show marks the end of the first session for skaters this year and will be followed up by a spring show at the end of the second session.
