By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
Two months of putting in the hard work to learn and execute their routines all come to fruition for the Ridgetown Figure Skating Club next Tuesday.
The club’s 70th Annual Skaters Showcase will take the audience back in time as young skaters perform ‘Music Through the Eras,’ stirring up musical memories of decades past.
The show takes place on Tuesday, March 24, at the East Kent Memorial Arena – curtain time is 5:45 p.m. Admission is by donation, as all proceeds will assist the Ridgetown Figure Skating Club in continuing to offer its programs to the community.
All members of the club will perform either as solo skaters, in a duet, or in an ensemble.
“They’re so excited about performing for their families and friends,” said Deb Veccia, Program Director and Head Coach of the club.
Veccia said the skaters began rehearsing their numbers in early February.
“They can’t wait for next Tuesday,” she said.
While the coaches have been busy with on-ice training, an army of volunteers has been behind the scenes taking care of a variety of tasks, including making retro costumes for all the skaters to match their era of music.
“We have so many wonderful volunteers who have put in a lot of hours to make the show happen,” Veccia said. “It’s not a one-person show; it takes a lot of volunteer hours, between costumes, decorating, promotions, fundraising, that goes into the show.
“And we’ve had some amazing community sponsors,” Veccia added, as several local businesses, organizations and individuals have provided financial support.
And in conjunction with the club’s 70th anniversary, all former skaters, coaches, and board members are invited to return to the East Kent Arena to see the show, renew friendships, and relive their memories of the club as they enjoy it.
There will be special 70th anniversary treats in the lobby for everyone after the show.
The club will also take time to honour the memory of Jack Collins, a long-time volunteer and board member of the RFSC and Skate Canada judge.
