By Alison Decker
NASHVILLE, TN — Disney on Ice’s “Let’s Celebrate” returned to Nashville Thursday, September 22 through Sunday 25 featuring Frozen, The Lion King, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Toy Story 4, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Snow White, Mulan, Finding Dory and Pinocchio.
The cast of the ice-skating production had two weeks to learn their choreography and script before performing it for the very first time after a two-year hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are 50 characters to portray and 45 cast members, along with 15 to 20 additional staff and crew that help with the behind-the-scenes technical aspects such as; lights, sounds and music.
Trey Ehre, an ice-skater from Los Angeles, California, plays the character Hans from Frozen. Prince Hans of the Southern Isles is the main antagonist of Disney’s 2013 animated feature film. He is the youngest of thirteen sons, burdened with the inability to ascend his family’s throne in the Southern Isles. Desperate for power and recognition, Hans plots to instead rule Arendelle as king through means of marriage and regicide.
“He’s a great character to portray,” Ehre said. “The audience enjoys the show and reacts to the moments. It’s fantastic to see people light up and react different ways to the show.”
Trey Ehre first entered the industry playing ice hockey when he was 4 years old. He began ice skating as a means to improve his strength and agility when playing ice hockey at 8 years old. His notable awards include National Competitor, Sectional Bronze Medalist and Double Gold U.S. Figure Skating Test Level. He is a member of the Professional Skaters Association, U.S. Figure Skating and ProSkaters.
“I enjoy bringing entertainment to an audience. I enjoy the anticipation of a pending performance and the satisfaction when it goes well. The camaraderie of working together with a cast to put on a great show,” Ehre said.
Touring for 2021-2022 began last September and typically there is a month to one- and -a- half months to give the ice skaters time to refresh in-between ice-skating, traveling and performing. Last year, they started their North American tour in Florida before traveling to England. Roughly two to three weeks is dedicated to the schedule before a new tour so if new performers come in, they have time to learn the show and get comfortable with their role. January through May is a typical season length.
“Adults can enjoy the show too because so many Disney movies are represented in the show. Pinocchio came out many years ago and parents taking their kids to the show can enjoy their childhood favorites, as well. Everyone will have something to recognize and enjoy in this show as well as fantastic skating, special effects and performances,” Ehre said.
According to website, “Disney On Ice skaters have performed for more than 320 million guests throughout 68 countries in more than 545 cities and 40 languages since the show first opened in 1981.”
Up-to-date news and information about Disney of Ice shows can be found at disneyonice.com. The “Inside Disney” at tab offers behind-the-scenes news and videos also featured on their Instagram page.
The schedule for future shows listed and visitors can sign up to become a preferred guest to receive alerts on upcoming shows and special offers.