Figure Skaters Glide Through Holiday Show

Skating to songs as sweet as "The Only Thing I Want For Christmas..." and as saucy as "Santa Baby," 30 figure skaters performed Tuesday at the the Iceland Holiday Recital and Celebration.

Most of the skaters performed solo on the ice rink at the Niles Park District facility, though some programs featured pairs or trios.

"They did great tonight. We upped our game, we pulled out the spotlights. I'm told it's a big success compared to last year. Our program is on the upswing," said Amy Forbes, who has been skating school director since March. She attended her first class at Iceland when she was eight years old and says she grew up at the rink.

Iceland's figure skating program has about 300 skaters registered, and those who performed chose to participate in the holiday show for fun, Forbes said. The spring show will be more formally structured, with different class levels performing.

Many of the skaters compete, including at the U.S. Figure Skating regional competitions.

"Two weekends ago, we had students competing at the ISI (Ice Skating Institute) Artistic Challenge," Forbes said. Although it was a national competition, it was held in Northbrook.

Iceland skaters who won events at the Artistic Challenge included Ashley McManus, Emily Murdach, Angelina Giuliano and McKenzie Libov. Iceland placed 11th overall of 25 teams.

Upcoming events at Iceland include:

• A five-week "Learn to Skate" mini-session, from Jan. 4-Feb. 5, for all levels.
• A $96 special on private lessons during winter break from school, Dec. 20 through Dec. 31.
• A family-oriented New Year's Eve public skate and celebration from 4-6 p.m. on Dec. 31.