Magical moments on ice: Stars align in an epic adventure

Another dose of Disney wonder awaits us as we usher in the holiday season. The latest Disney ice spectacle — aptly titled “Magic in the Stars” — arrives at UBS Arena on Nov. 15, to the delight of families who eagerly embrace every Disney moment.

Along with the always-welcome iconic characters and stories — classic and current favorites — this extravaganza is an all-new showcase full of surprises. Audiences will enjoy seeing the most characters ever gathered together on the ice: 54 in all.    

If that’s not enough to grab the attention of all you Disneyphiles, you’re in for a special treat. This extravaganza offers a glimpse of the characters from the Mouse House’s upcoming animated fantasy ”Wish,” scheduled to arrive on the big screen Nov. 22.

“It’s so exciting to be able to add this segment to our show,” director Adam Loosely says. “We’re incredibly excited that Disney has entrusted us with these characters prior to the film’s release. Our audiences are getting a sneak peak at Asha (the film’s teenage heroine). Her solo, performed to the ballad ‘This Wish,’ is just beautiful.”

The film, inspired by the classic wishing star, is an homage to Disney’s centennial anniversary year — as is this edition of Disney on Ice. Or as Loosely puts it: “We’re celebrating 100 years of wonder.”

Asha is joined, of course, by the many unforgettable characters all brought to life on ice in a captivating production that transports audiences to a world where imaginations soar and in true Disney spirit, “anything can happen if you just believe.” More than that, the stars certainly align in this fast-paced spectacle.

“We’re taking our audience up to the stars,” Loosely says.

Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Daisy start off this starry adventure — and even Pluto joins in. It all begins when the North Star shines brightly and descends upon Jiminy Cricket as he welcomes everyone and reminds audiences that the most fantastic, magical things can happen, and it all starts with a wish.

See Tiana, from “The Princess and the Frog,” as she strives to make her wish of opening a restaurant come true. Go along with Aladdin to discover the power of three wishes when he finds that magic lamp in the Cave of Wonders. Reminisce with beloved heroines Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Rapunzel as they remind us to never stop wishing and dreaming.

In another first (on ice), escape “Into the Unknown” with Elsa and Anna from “Frozen 2.” Also hit the road with Disney and Pixar’s Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater as they cruise on the ice to “Life is a Highway;” reconnect with Toy Story’s Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie, Rex and Hamm. Set sail with Moana on her canoe into the open ocean, to witness her encourage Te Kãāto “Know Who You Are” and transform into Te Fiti. And, yes, travel to the mountains of Colombia where the Madrigal family lives, unlock the magic in the family’s casita, and discover — yet again — why “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.”

In yet another special moment, watch as Raya, from “Raya and the Last Dragon,” ascends into the air, lifting the show to higher heights as the strong warrior performs an aerial acro-pole routine. 

As always, the skating brings a new dimension to the stories audiences know so well. Solos, pairs, fast-paced ensemble skating along with acrobatic routines, keep everyone in awe of what’s taking place on the ice.

“We have an incredible international cast that does it all,” Loosely says, “including fantastic tricks.”

He certainly knows his way around the ice. The former competitive skater (a member of the Canadian National Team) performed in seven productions over 12 years as a cast member. He relishes his role now helming the show.

“This transition has been so incredibly rewarding. I’m so grateful and proud of this production. It’s just so much fun,” Loosely says. “I’ve been working on it for a year, and it’s been a honor to work with such a talented team to bring it all to life. And to remind our audiences, you don’t need magical powers to be a hero. The real magic is you, and the brightest light shines inside of you.

“Every one of you is a star. So shine bright and let your stories light up the night sky!”