Angela Maxwell, the 2008 U.S. junior silver medalist and 2007 U.S. novice champion, ran through her short program for an enthusiastic crowd at the Abe Stark Skating Rink in Coney Island, New York on December 27. The audience was there to show their support for Coney Island Ice Theatre, a relatively new children's organization created by former professional skater Valery Levine. Valery also enlisted the help of perennial children's volunteer Oksana Baiul to lend support to her program. Oksana headlined the event with a skate to Swan Lake. (At right, Oksana Baiul and Angela Maxwell after their skate)
According to Valery,
I started the organization originally wanting to do a skating theatre project with Coney Island USA, the people who do the Mermaid Parade every year in Coney Island. David Gratt, their manager, took a big interest in it and it began there. We wanted to do something at the local rink with the community and the kids. As a skater and choreographer I always preferred show skating over competitive skating because there are no creative restrictions. I also wanted to work with both kids and professionals in performances, so it all evolved out of those interests.
What a great idea for kids who have an interest in performing and skating! I'll be checking back with them as the season progresses.
(Photo below, Oksana Baiul and Angela Maxwell with children from the Coney Island Ice Theatre)
Congratulations girls!!! You have both got so much to be proud of. How refreshing to see two such energetic and dedicated young women.
Posted by: Lynne | January 06, 2009 at 12:54 PM