An ice follies-type show substituting rollers for blades came to Lorain Dec. 17 and 18, and delighted the more than 150 attendees.
For the 14th consecutive year, Lorain Skate World, 4953 W. Erie Ave. in Lorain, presented its Holiday on Wheels spectacular.
According to coach Mary Nendza, there were 22 acts featuring 42 performers in the show.
The youngest performer was aged 4, while the eldest performer was 77.
The show featured several USA Roller Sports gold medalists and the current gold medal winning team from the Pan-American USARS competition.
“It all started when we wanted to do something a little different for the competitors,” Nendza explained. “With all the competitions and competitiveness and regimented practices, this was an opportunity for all the competitors to just have some fun and put on a great show.
“And, they really do love it. You can see all their hard work they’ve put in, and it’s really a fun, amazing show to watch.”
Nendez said the show was planned several months in advance, putting together choreography and a variety of dance numbers, soloists, pairs, kids and, of course, stunts.
“It takes a lot of coordination to put the show together,” she said. “We make all the costumes and the props and the scenery, so a lot really goes into putting on a fantastic show.
“And, it’s all holiday-themed with snowmen and angels and Christmas songs and carols, so it’s a wonderful experience for the audience. The music is great; the dancing and the stunts are great. If you like figure skating or the ice follies, it’s pretty much the same thing – just with roller skates.”
