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>> A NEW DISNEY ON ICE PRODUCTION HAS COLORFUL THRILLS TINKER BELL AND MICKEY ARE COMING TO VIRGINIA

September 25, 2008 12:16 am

by Collette Caprara

for the free lance-star

The scene is a literal land of ice when the magic begins to happen. Bit by bit, a cadre of fairies sparks the color and life of spring, revealing their secret role in the transformation of the seasons.

While it seems like an imaginary realm, this is a world that families can see and experience firsthand as Walt Disney's "Worlds of Fantasy" nationwide tour comes to the Patriot Center this weekend.

The "fairy tale" segment provides a sneak peek of the highly-anticipated Tinker Bell movie that will debut in theaters in late October.

"This is Tinker Bell before she ever knows Peter Pan, and, for the first time, we will hear her talk!" said Lynn Sommer, who skates in a number of roles throughout the production.

"It's amazing to see the little girls in the audiences, dressed up as fairies and staring in awe at the real Tinker Bell!"

While the glimpse into Pixie Hollow is sure to delight the girls in the audience, boys will be thrilled to see life-sized versions of Disney/Pixar "Cars" characters spinning and careening across the ice. With state-of-the-art animatronics, the cars' personalities beam as their eyes and mouths move with their antics.

In addition to these two first-time productions, the show will also present all-time favorites and classic characters. Fantasy realms will include the majestic deep-sea environs of "The Little Mermaid" and her friends and the bright and pulsating world of "The Lion King" jungle.

And, of course, Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy will be gliding across the ice to greet their fans.

As a special feature for the Worlds of Fantasy, ticket-holders for all performances are invited to a free Disney Princess pre-show exhibit. The display will feature ball gowns and mementos from beloved princess stories in settings that provide plenty of photo opportunities for families.

The production, featuring dazzling costumes and exciting music, entails the efforts of a talented team, including world -class skaters and a set designer, choreographer and lighting designer who have all received Emmy Awards.

As the show evolved and took shape, even performers were enthralled to see the final product.

"It was so interesting and rewarding to see the show develop," Sommer said. "During rehearsals we were doing pieces from here and there. When we finally did our first run-through with everything put together, I was just blown away. The kids will love it--I can guarantee that!"

Collette Caprara is a local artist and freelance writer.