Download Theatre On Ice - US Figure Skating

Theatre On Ice
Part 1: 2012 Theatre On Ice
Guidelines and Rules
Part 2: 2012 Theatre On Ice
Competition Rules
Part 3: How to Form a Team
PART 1
GUIDELINES AND RULES
1. DEFINITION
Theatre On Ice is a creation using all aspects of figure skating, incorporating a theme,
emotion or story, enhanced by music. It is a PACKAGE that includes five dimensions:

 Theme

 Music/Sound

 Choreography/Skating movements

 Performance/The rapport between the skaters and/or sub-groups of skaters

 Costuming, Props and/or scenery
The quality of the Theatre On Ice performance requires that the music, theme and
choreography be consistent with one another and that they give the feeling of harmony
and balance. Additionally no one aspect on the performance should be redundant. The
goal is to transcend the literal and to create emotion. Theatre On Ice must be adapted to
the specific dynamic of figure skating: quality of gliding and edges, speed, ease, and
amplitude of movements. It must also look for the proper treatment of groups, and for a
good variety in the use of the different elements of skating. The quality of edge, speed,
ease and flow of movement should enhance the performance and there should be a
balanced incorporation of groups. The performance should be an ORIGINAL work or an
INTERPRETATION using a unique style. The choreography should be able to “stand
alone” and the music, costumes, and scenery should be used to enhance the over-all
performance. There is no limit to the number of free skating, ice dancing, pair or
synchronized skating elements used in the routine; however, judges will have to
evaluate the congruity of all elements used to the chosen theme and music. Any
imbalance of any one element will be reflected in the marking. Likewise, any over use of
highlighting (skater(s) performing solo elements without connection to story, theme,
music and other skaters for the purpose of increasing the technical mark) will result in a
deduction of .1 on the technical score.
Theatre On Ice consists of two programs the Free Skate and the Choreographic
Exercise, which is similar to a short program in singles skating. These two events are
judged separately. All levels will be judged on both programs for a combined score at the
Theatre On Ice NATIONAL competition and Nation’s Cup.
2. RULES
A. MEMBERSHIP
All members of a Theatre On Ice team must be members of U.S. Figure Skating either
through a member club or as an individual member of US Figure Skating. In addition,
each team must be registered with US Figure Skating as a Theatre On Ice team (see
U.S. Figure Skating rulebook MR 12.00). Teams without a Theatre On Ice membership
and/or who have members who are not U.S. Figure Skating member will not be
permitted to compete in U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned Theatre On Ice events or events
hosted by foreign federations. Applications to register your team with U.S. Figure
Skating are available from U.S. Figure Skating Headquarters, Membership Department.
Please note that U.S. Figure Skating membership is from July 1st - June 30th of
the following year.
B. NUMBER OF SKATERS ON A TEAM
A Theatre On Ice team may have no fewer than eight (8) members all of whom must
skate at some point during the number. A team may have an unlimited number of
alternates but no more than 30 may skate in a competition. Preliminary level teams are
limited to a maximum of twenty (20) skaters on a team. Open teams are limited to a
maximum of fifteen (15) skaters on a team.
C. CATEGORIES
There are six levels of Theatre On Ice teams in the United States, Senior, Junior,
Novice, Adult, Preliminary and Open. For U.S. Figure Skating teams (competing both
domestically and internationally) these are based on U.S. Figure Skating moves in the
field tests and the Juvenile or Adult Gold free skate test. A skater’s test level is
determined by their test level on December 1st. (See team level requirements below).
Although the roster of a team, and therefore, the level of a team may change, the test
level of any given skater does not change through the season. A team may not skate in
more than one division at the same competition (i.e. an adult team may not also skate in
the novice, junior or senior division at the same competition). Teams whose roster and
therefore team level changes throughout the season may enter different competitions at
different levels as long as they meet the level requirement for that competition as defined
by the competition’s announcement cut-off date. For the “International/ National Theatre
On Ice” Competitions, teams may not “skate up” a level but must enter the division that
reflects their team’s level as of the cutoff date for entries. For other U.S.
nonqualifying competitions, the ability to “skate up” is the decision of the chief referee, in
consult with the local organizing committee and must be stated in the announcement.
LATEST DATE FOR TESTING – Theatre On Ice categories have been defined
according to the level of tests team members have reached. In order to ease each
team’s preparation, the definition of which category a team belongs to should not be
dependent on the tests as defined by a maximum test level, the category a team
belongs to will be defined by the December 1st test level of the skaters. For categories,
which are defined by a minimum test level, the category must be reached 30 days
prior to the close of entries for the National/International THEATRE ON ICE
competition.
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Senior 100% of the team must have passed the Preliminary or Adult Pre-Bronze
Moves in the Field Test. More than 50% of the team must have passed the
Juvenile or Adult Gold FS Test or higher No age limits.
Junior - 100% of the team must have passed the Preliminary or Adult PreBronze Moves in the Field Test. No more than 50% of the team may have
passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold FS Test or higher. No age limits
Novice - 100% of the team must have passed the Pre-Preliminary Moves in the
Field Test. 80% of the team must be under age 15 as of December 1st of the
competition year. No skater may have passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold FS test.
No skater may have reached age 19 as of December 1st of the competition year.
Preliminary – 100% of the team must have mastered the skills of the Basic Skills
Free Skate 1 badge test and may not have passed any test higher than Pre-
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Preliminary MIF test. Age requirement as of the preceding December 1st: Skaters
must be 17 years of age or under. All skaters must be full members of US Figure
Skating. A team coach will be required to sign a waiver stating his/her skaters
have mastered the required elements on each competition application. Teams
consist of a minimum of 8 skaters and a maximum of 20 skaters. Choreographic
Exercise duration is 2 minutes plus or minus 10 seconds. Free Skate duration is
2 minutes and 30 seconds plus or minus 10 seconds. Costumes may be worn for
the Free Skate, but props and scenery are not allowed.
Adult - 100% of the team must have reached the age of 18 years as of the
December 1st preceding the competition. In addition, 100% of the team must
have passed at least one U.S. Figure Skating test (other than a Basic Skills
badge). This may include an adult or standard MIF, individual dance test
(passing the entire dance category not required), freestyle, or pairs.
Open - 100% of the team must have passed at least one U.S. Figure Skating
test (other than a Basic Skills badge). This may include an adult or standard MIF,
individual dance test (passing the entire dance category not required), freestyle,
or pairs. Teams consist of a minimum of 8 skaters and a maximum of 15
skaters. There is no age limit. This level does not qualify for Nation’s Cup.
Basic Skills – Please refer to the Basic Skills manual for more information on
this level.
Other skating federations also divide their teams into novice, junior and senior but have
their own rules governing what constitutes these levels. When a foreign team enters a
U.S. event, the level will be determined based on their federation’s requirements. U.S.
teams must adhere to U.S. Figure Skating requirements when entering a Theatre On Ice
event hosted by another federation. The hosting federation may impose additional
requirements. Contact National Theatre On Ice chair before entering another
federation’s competition.
SPECIAL NOTE TO NON-US TEAMS: A letter from the team’s federation or local club
verifying their eligibility to compete (under the rules of the federation) must be sent along
with application forms. No club or competition should accept a foreign team unless they
have met the requirements set forth by U.S. Figure Skating.
D. COMPETITIONS
At present, all Theatre On Ice competitions held under the jurisdiction of U.S. Figure
Skating are non-qualifying competitions. The Theatrical Skating Committee, whose
oversight currently covers Theatre On Ice in U.S. Figure Skating, will assist a member
club in sponsoring an “International Theatre On Ice Competition” that will be open to
Theatre On Ice teams from other skating federations. The “International Theatre On Ice”
competition is suggested to be held late June or early July of each year. Other
competitions are encouraged to host Theatre On Ice events, and to invite foreign teams,
but may not use the name “International or National Theatre On Ice Competition.” When
there are 18 or fewer entries in an event, qualifying rounds will not be held. The
qualifying rounds will consist of the Free Skate only. (see Part 2 of this guidebook for
complete rules for Theatre On Ice Competitions.
CROSSOVERS
 No Crossovers are permitted in any division.
ROSTERS
 The same skaters must skate both CE and Free Skate in combined events.
Senior
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements
 Maximum Test qualifications as of December 1st
 Minimum Test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for
Nationals
 More than 50% of the team must have passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold FS
Test
 100% must have must have passed the Preliminary or Adult Pre-Bronze MIF
test
 No age restrictions
Program Duration
 CE 2:30 +/- 10 seconds
 Free Skate 6:00 +/- 15 seconds
Junior
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements
 Maximum Test qualifications as of December 1st
 Minimum Test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for
Nationals
 No more than 50% of the team may have passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold
FS test
 100% must have must have passed the Preliminary or Adult Pre-Bronze MIF
test
 No age restrictions
Program Duration
 CE 2:30 +/- 10 seconds
 Free Skate 6:00 +/- 15 seconds
Novice
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements
 Test qualifications as of December 1st
 Minimum Test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for
Nationals
 100% must have must have passed the Pre-preliminary MIF test
 No one on the team may have passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold FS test.
 80% of the team must be under age 15 as of December 1st of the
 competition year
 No skater may have reached age 19 as of December 1st of the competition
year.
Program Duration
 CE 2:30 +/- 10 seconds
 Free Skate 5:00 +/- 15 seconds
Adult
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements
 Minimum Test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for
Nationals
 100% of the team must have passed at least one US Figure Skating MIF,
 Freestyle, Dance or Pairs test (not including Basic Skills)
 Requirements as of the preceding December 1st: Skaters who are 18 years of
age or older.
Program Duration
 CE 2:30 +/- 10 seconds
 Free Skate 6:00 +/- 15 seconds
Preliminary
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements

Maximum Test qualifications as of December 1st
 Minimum of 8- maximum of 20 skaters
 100% of the team must have mastered the skills of the Basic Skills Free Skate 1
test and may not have passed any test higher than Pre-Preliminary MIF test.
 Age requirement as of December 1st of the preceding year: Skaters must be 17
years of age or under.
Program Duration

CE 2:00 +/- 10 seconds

Free Skate 2:30+/- 10 seconds
Open
Test, Team Size and Age Requirements
 Test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for Nationals
 100% of the team must have passed at least one US Figure Skating MIF,
 Freestyle, Dance or Pairs test (not including Basic Skills)
 No age restrictions
Program Duration

CE 2:30 +/- 10 seconds

Free Skate 5:00 +/- 15 seconds
F. FREE SKATE
 The Free Skate performance should be original, and express a theme, emotion
or story.
 Vocal music is allowed.
 Teams may use costumes, props and scenery to help tell their stories. (See
competition section in this guidebook for more information on props and scenery)
 There is no limit to the number of jumps allowed in a program. However, jumps
must have a meaning in relation to the theme and should not be gratuitous. Solo,
pair, dance or synchronized elements also must have meaning within the theme.
 Skaters are permitted to leave the visible portion of the ice such as behind a
curtain or piece of scenery, but must remain on the ice surface itself during the
number. All participants must wear their skates on the ice at all times. Skaters
cannot remain behind the scenery, curtain or props for the entire performance.
 Before the music is started the team must take a stationary position on the ice
and a skater must give a hand signal.
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






The team MUST provide a written description of the performance. The
description should be no more than 50 words in length and MUST be provided
to the competition local organizing committee in the local language.
An audio description of the program (or other verbal text) may be part of the
CD/tape and precede the commencement of the program. The audio reading
should not exceed 30 seconds. (See competition section in this guidebook for
more information on audio descriptions.) A 0.1 deduction will be taken.
Coaches may not direct, prompt, or otherwise communicate with the skaters
during the performance.
If the tempo or quality of the music is deficient, no restart may be made if a team
member fails to inform the referee within 30 seconds after the start. No restarts of
the whole program are allowed, except for deficient music.
No substitution of personnel will be permitted once the program has started.
However, registered team alternates may be substituted if the referee stops the
teams program due to injury or equipment problems.
All scenery and props must be present on the ice during the 2 minute warm up
and remain on the ice for the duration of the program. No scenery or props may
be handed to a skater by coaches, parents or spectators during the
performance.
LENGTH OF PERFORMANCES
a. Senior FS: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
b. Junior FS: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
c. Novice FS: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
d. Adult FS: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
e. Preliminary FS : 2 minutes 30 seconds plus or minus 10 seconds
f. Open FS: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
FREE SKATE JUDGING
Two marks, each between 0 and 6 (given in increments of 0.1 units), will be awarded.
1. Technique of Performance
The following criteria must be considered by the judges when awarding this mark:
a. Utilization of the ice, utilization of space, and the organization of formations
b. Quality of movements including body positions.
c. Quality of ensembles and rapport between the skaters themselves and groups
of skaters.
d. Overall strength of the skaters on the team as a whole.**
** For d (above) when marking the “overall strength of the skaters on the team as a
whole” judges must consider turns, footwork, spirals, jumps, spins, lifts, and dance
elements included in the performance. Such evaluation must consider the quality of
edge, flow, speed and its variation, carriage, and variety of elements incorporated. An
imbalance of any one type of element will be reflected in this mark.
2. Artistic Mark
The following criteria must be considered by the judges when awarding this mark:
a. Originality and creativity of the performance as a whole as well as its ability to
be interpreted by observers.
b. Establishment of a presence by the skaters individually as well as the intensity
and impact of the performance as a whole.
c. Creation of a universe taking into account the choreography and its execution.
d. Theatricality of the performance
Use of scenery is not a requirement but if scenery is used it should enhance and not
detract from the performance.
Deduction in technical mark for technical elements
Deduction
Highlighting
Falls
Costume/Hair/MakeUp (CE)
Time over/under
Scenery set
time violation
up
Step Rule
Debris on Ice
(bobby pins, pieces
of scenery, etc)
Scenery/Props
Taken By
0.1
Judges
0.1 per skater
Judges
0.2
Referee
0.1 per 10 sec
Referee
0.1 per 10
seconds
Referee
0.1
Referee
0.1
Referee
0.2
Referee
For each
violation
Entering/Exiting Ice
Time
0.1
Referee
See Page 6
CE: Theatrical Make-up,
Hair accessories, incorrect
hair style, costumes with
decoration or cut outs.
2
minutes
from
announcement of team,
2
minutes
for
scenery
removal at conclusion of
program
Skaters may not step off the
ice when moving scenery on
or off.
Prop people may not step on
the ice when moving scenery
on or off.
Over size requirements for
scenery, trampolines or other
devices
used
to
assist
skaters jumping into the air,
use of smoke, fire, liquids,
live animals, feathers or other
substances which may harm
the ice surface.
Coaching from the
Sideline
Audio Description
longer than 30
seconds
0.1
Referee
0.1
Referee
Coaching, prompting or
directing from coach during
performance
G. CHOREOGRAPHIC EXERCISE
Choreographic Exercise is based on three elements:
1. Theme
2. Choreographic process
3. Type of gesture or movement
 The duration of the CE for Open, Novice, Junior, Senior and Adult levels is 2
minutes 30 seconds - plus or minus 10 seconds.
 The duration of the CE for Preliminary level is 2 minutes – plus or minus 10
seconds.
 No scenery or props are allowed.
 Natural or minimal make-up is required. No theatrical make up which can be
seen from the stands. Hair must be worn pulled back or in a bun and secured
with plain barrettes.
 No bobby pins are allowed. No hair fasteners that may slip/fall out are allowed.
No extra hair accessories may be worn. (Plain hairnets are allowed if wearing
buns) All team members must wear the same or similar hair styles. No theatrical
make up or decorative hair style is permitted. No decorative jewelry. A 0.2
deduction will be taken for each violation.
 All team members must wear all plain black-including legs (black tights or pants
for ladies, black pants for men) and long sleeves on arms. No cutouts,
decorations or other embellishments are permitted. Dance skirts are not allowed,
however regular length skating skirts and dresses are allowed with black tights.
No accessories are permitted such as headbands, decorated scrunchies, etc. A
0.1 deduction will be taken for each violation.
 All costumes must be the same. (With the exception of men wearing black pants
if ladies are wearing skirts with black tights.)
 The focus must be on the three elements described above
 Before the music is started the team must take a stationary position on the ice
and a skater must give a hand signal.
 Music must be used and is the choice of the team (vocals are permitted as they
are with the Free Skate).
 Warm-up period is one minute with a 30-second warning.
 Coaches may not direct, prompt, or otherwise communicate with the skaters
during the performance.
 If the tempo or quality of the music is deficient, no restart may be made if a team
member fails to inform the referee within 30 seconds after the start. No restarts of
the whole program are allowed, except for deficient music.
 No substitution of personnel will be permitted once the program has started.
However, registered team alternates may be substituted if the referee stops the
teams program due to injury or equipment problems.
2012
Theme: Conflict
Choreographic Process: Diminution (diməˈn(y)o͞ oSHən) / Diminish
Body Movement: Release
CHOREOGRAPHIC EXERCISE JUDGING
CHOREOGRAPHIC MARK
1. Clarity of the prescribed theme
2. Clarity of the prescribed choreographic process
3. Clarity of the prescribed gesture (movement)
4. Interpretation of sound/music to support the intent of the program.
TECHNICAL MARK
1. Mastery of gliding and quality of edges
2. Speed, variety and amplitude of steps and turns, jumps, rotations and attitudes
3. Quality of execution of movement: body hold and placement
4. Consistency of the 3 choreographic elements with music and theme
In the case of a tie, the choreographic mark will determine the higher placement.
A planned program sheet for the Choreographic Exercise will be provided with the
announcements for National Theatre On Ice competitions.
Deduction in technical mark for technical elements
Highlighting
0.1
Falls
0.1
skater
Costume/Hair/Make-Up
(CE)
0.2
Time over/under
0.1 per 10 Referee
sec
Debris on
pins, etc)
Ice
Judges
See Page 6
per Judges
Referee
(bobby 0.1
Referee
Entering/Exiting Ice Time 0.1
Referee
Coaching
from
the 0.1
Sideline
Audio Description longer 0.1
30 seconds
Referee
Referee
CE: Theatrical Make-up, Hair
accessories, incorrect hair style,
costumes with decoration or cut
outs.
Coaching, prompting or directing
from coach during performance
PART 2
COMPETITION RULES
1. COMPETITIONS
At present, all Theatre On Ice competitions held under the jurisdiction of U.S. Figure
Skating are non -qualifying competitions. The Program Development Committee, whose
oversight currently covers Theatre On Ice in U.S. Figure Skating, will assist a member
club in sponsoring an “International Theatre On Ice Competition” that will be open to
Theatre On Ice teams from other skating federations. It is suggested that the
“International Theatre On Ice” competition be held at the end of June or the beginning of
July of each year. Other competitions are encouraged to host Theatre On Ice events,
and to invite foreign teams, but may not use the name “International or National Theatre
On Ice Competition.” The National Theatre On Ice Competition will combine the
Choreographic Exercise and the Free Skate. Once the official practice ice has begun at
Nation’s Cup or Theatre On Ice National’s, no team is permitted to practice at another
rink with the exception of the official or unofficial practice ice provided by the LOC.
A. CROSS-OVER RULE

NO CROSSOVERS ARE ALLOWED AT ANY LEVEL
B. OFFICIAL PRACTICE
 A team is not required to attend their official practice; however, if a team doesn’t
skate their official practice the times of subsequent practices do not change.
There are no refunds for teams choosing not to use their official practice time.
C. CURTAIN
 Curtains will be optional. It must be stated in both the Nation's Cup and
National announcement if there will be a curtain and the location of the
curtain if a curtain is used. The announcement must also include a diagram of
the rink showing the location of the curtain, judges, entrance, exit and prop door
and if photos will be taken after the performance.
 The curtain may be placed either along one end of the rink or across the middle
of the ice surface.
 The exact placement of the curtain must be stated in the announcement with the
curtain’s dimensions and distance from the barriers.
 If placed along the end of the rink, it should extend the width of the rink and if
placed along the middle of the rink it should extend from blue line to blue line and
placed five (5) feet from the boards.
 Curtains may either be the “hanging type" or made of moveable panels.
 No curtain is needed for other non-qualifying competitions.
 If a curtain is used at a non-qualifying competitions, the above criteria must be
used.
 There is no set height for the curtain.
D. COSTUMES
 Costuming and make-up for Free Skate programs should enhance the feeling
created by the performance, and reflect the meaning of the story or theme.
 Costumes must always be in accordance with U.S. Figure Skating rules.
 Ornaments and hair accessories must be secure. 0.1 deduction will be taken.
 No bobby-pins, feathers, or anything else that may fall to the ice and be


hazardous to the skaters are allowed. 0.1 deduction will be taken
Costumes for Choreographic Exercise are listed in the choreographic
exercise section.
E. SCENERY/PROPS
Scenery may be used in the Free Skate ONLY. The use of scenery and/or props is not
mandatory.
 Scenery may not be more than 7 feet 6 inches in height (2.3 meters).
 All scenery will be portable and not require any mechanical means for
transportation (i.e. forklift, etc) its movement will be the responsibility of the team.
 For insurance reasons no propulsion devices will be permitted. This includes
items such as cannons as well as trampolines.
 All scenery must be placed on the ice by the Members of the Team’s Prop Crew.
 Members of the Team’s Prop Crew may NOT set foot on the ice. A 0.1 deduction
will be taken.
 Once the scenery is assembled, it must fit in a 10 foot by 10 foot square area in
the designated storage area of the competition.
 The use of smoke, fire, liquids, live animals, feathers or any substance that may
harm the ice surface and/or skaters is not permitted.
 No mirrors or glass of any kind is allowed on the ice.
 Props may be placed on the ice at the designated prop door by the Team’s Prop
Crew, skaters must pick up props from this position.
 Skaters may not step off the ice. 0.2 deduction will be taken
 TRAMPOLINES OR OTHER SUCH APPARATUS USED TO ASSIST
SKATERS JUMPING INTO THE AIR IS NOT PERMITTED. A 0.2 deduction will
be taken
 Skaters will have two-minutes from the time the team is announced to set-up any
scenery and get in their starting position. Skaters may use any or all of this two
minute period to warm-up. A 0.1 deduction will be taken. The ice-referee will
monitor the set-up of any scenery and report any violations of the time allotment
to the event referee. A 0.1 deduction will be taken
 All skaters must take the ice at the same time and be ready for the start of the 2
minute warm-up/set-up and all skaters must remain on the ice for the duration of
the program. Skaters may appear and disappear behind scenery or props, but
may not leave the ice until the completion of the program. Skaters cannot
remain behind the scenery, curtain or props for the entire performance.
 An announcement will be made after 1 minute has elapsed. Another
announcement will be made when 30-seconds are remaining. At the 2 minute
mark, an announcement is made that set up time is over. Set up must be
complete and skaters must be in their starting position before the 2 minute
announcement is made. A 0.1 deduction will be taken for every 10 seconds.
SCENERY BREAK DOWN
 At the completion of the performance, and after the team has taken their bows,
teams will be permitted two-minutes to remove all scenery. When removing the
props from the ice the Skaters may not step off the ice. A 0.2 deduction will be
taken. Members of the Team’s Prop Crew may NOT set foot on the ice. A 0.1
deduction will be taken.
 The ice referee will determine if all objects have been appropriately removed and
will report any violation to the event referee.


Failure to remove all objects to the satisfaction of the ice or event referee by the
two-minute mark will result in a 0.1 deduction from each mark.
There will be no timing announcements during the breakdown period.
F. TIMING
Timing will begin with the first purposeful movement of any member of the Theatre On
Ice team. For performances that are over or under the time allotment standard time
deductions will apply as per U.S. Figure Skating rule 3526 (former, SSR 15.00). Timing
will cease when the last skater comes to a complete stop.
 If skaters begin movement during the reading of the performance description,
then timing will begin at that point.
 Upon taking their position on the ice, a member of the team should raise and
lower either their right or left arm to signify that the team is ready to begin their
performance. This movement does not count as the “purposeful movement”
noted above.
 Verbal Introduction- May be up to 30 seconds and must be recorded on the
CD/tape. This introduction is not included in the timing of the program unless a
team member begins moving during the verbal introduction. This also applies to
the Choreographic Exercise. A 0.1 deduction will be taken.
 LENGTH OF FREE SKATE PERFORMANCES*
a. Senior FS : 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
b. Junior FS : 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
c. Novice FS: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
d. Adult FS: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds
e. Preliminary FS : 2 minutes 30 seconds plus or minus 10 seconds
f. Open FS: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds

LENGTH OF CHOREOGRAPHIC EXERCISE PERFORMANCES
a. Senior, Junior, Novice Open and Adult : 2 minutes 30 seconds plus or minus
10 seconds
b. Preliminary: 2 minutes plus or minus 10 seconds.
G. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
A. Written description – The official competition program should contain a written
description of the performance, which must be provided by the team at the time of
application to the competition as part of the competition announcement. The description
may not be more that 50 words in length and must be provided to the local organizing
committee of the competition in the local language.
B. Audio description -An audio description of the program (or other verbal text) may be
part of the CD/tape and precede the commencement of the program. This applies to
both the Free Skate and the Choreographic Exercise.
 The CD/tape will not be started until after the team has taken their position and
given a hand signal that they are ready to begin.
 If the team does not wish the audio description to be included in the timing of the
performance, the entire team must remain still during the audio description.
 If the team is moving/skating during the audio description this will Be included the
total time allotment for their performance.
 The audio reading should not exceed 30 seconds. A 0.1 deduction will be
taken.
 Descriptions will not be read by announcers, therefore, teams wishing to have an
audio description read must have one recorded on the tape/CD.
H. LIGHTING
 Standard rink lighting is to be used for all events.
 No spotlights or special lighting is permitted.
I. SANCTION
 The announcement must be approved and a sanction awarded before a nonqualifying competition may be publicized or held.
 If Theatre On Ice is included in an open Free Skate Competition, no additional
sanction is required. However, the guidelines for Theatre on Ice must be
followed.
 The sanctions for the June International and National Theatre On Ice
competitions should be submitted directly to the U.S. Figure Skating
Competitions Chair with a copy to the National Vice Chair of Theatre On Ice
J. INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
 No Theatre On Ice Team should enter a Theatre On Ice competition outside of
the United States without permission from the national vice chair of Theatre on
Ice and the chair of Theatrical Skating.
 No team will be given permission to travel internationally unless they hold a
current U.S. Figure Skating Team Membership and all members of the team are
registered with U.S. Figure Skating.
 Any team receiving an invitation directly from another country or federation
inviting them to attend, should forward that invitation to the national vice chair for
Theatre On Ice. The national vice chair and the chair for Theatrical Skating will
establish the veracity of the invitation, and inform the team. This is for the
protection of the team!
 Information about Theatre On Ice competitions will be distributed to the
registered teams, as well as posted on the U.S. Figure Skating Web Site.
 It is strongly suggested that any team traveling outside of the United States
for competition purchase trip cancellation insurance. (Remember Toulouse!)
 Do not assume information has been received about all competitions, registered
teams, as well as posted on the U.S. Figure Skating web site. Notify the National
Vice Chair for Theatre On Ice about any upcoming competitions that have a
Theatre On Ice component.
 A skater who meets the eligibility rules of their federation and the ISU may not be
disqualified by the host country of a competition, even if the skater does not meet
the eligibility rules of the host country.
Adopt a Judge
With the increase teams traveling internationally- it was voted at the International
Competition -and accepted by the Judges Committee- that an approved judge/team
leader should be traveling with the teams internationally.
 Airfare from the Judges hometown to the competition site is the responsibility of
the traveling team.
 Housing is the responsibility of the host Country.
 Teams wishing to travel without a judge/team leader must sign a waiver supplied
to the team by the National Vice Chair of Theatre On Ice stating that they take full
responsibility for handling any and all matters that occur at the International
Competition out of the United States and fully aware of all International rules that
would protect the eligibility of their skaters.

It is strongly suggested that any team wishing to travel internationally Adopt a
Judge, The National Vice Chair will assign the judge / team leader. This person
will have international experience and will be an accredited THEATRE ON ICE
judge. The person assigned will look out for the best interest of the team.
2. JUDGING
A. OFFICIALS
Judges must go through a certification process to be recognized as an official Theatre
On Ice judge. A list of certified Theatre On Ice judges maybe found on the U.S. Figure
Skating web site.
 Only certified judges will be used for National and International competitions.
 It is recommended certified Theatre On Ice judges be used whenever possible.
 Non certified judges are not qualified to be part of a critique of teams.
REFEREES
1. Chief Referee:
a. Referee for the International and National competition must be selected from the
official list of referees and must be National in any of the disciplines. A sectional referee
may serve as an assistant at National/ International. A regional referee may serve as
referee of a regular non qualifying event of Theatre On Ice.
b. The chief referee’s interpretation of the rules and decisions on all questions not
covered by these rules shall be final. The chief referee will act as chair of the judges, be
responsible for scheduling of events in consultation with the host club, and shall,
together with the chief accountant, be responsible for the draw at the International. The
chief referee will also decide all protests including protests from the decisions of
assistant referees except when an expedited hearing is requested in accord with U.S.
Figure Skating Bylaws Article XXVI, Section 3. The chief referee will also decide upon
any breaches that may occur, even without protest, and verify the award of places under
3400 in the USFS Rulebook as submitted by the accountant.
2. Event Referee –
a. The event referee should sit with the judging panel and is responsible for the overall
running of the event including interpreting all rules.
b. The event referee should be either a senior, or national level judge in any discipline
and should have prior experience with judging Theatre On Ice events.
c. In the National and International competition, the event referee should be either a
sectional or national referee in any discipline.
3. Ice Referee
a. The ice referee stands at the ice entry area and monitors the ice conditions, monitors
the set-up and breakdown of the scenery and reports any time deviations to the referee.
b. The ice referee should be a senior or national level judge in any discipline and should
have prior experience judging Theatre On Ice events.
c. In The National and International competition, the ice referee should be either a
sectional or a national referee in any discipline.
JUDGES PANEL
For all Theatre On Ice competitions sanction by U.S. Figure Skating, the panel of
officials should include no less than one event referee, one ice referee, and five judges,
although seven to nine judges is recommended for the National and International
competition. If the open system of marking is used, then an assistant referee is also
needed.
a. Judging seats -The panel of judges, the event referee and assistant referee (if
required) must be seated in the middle of the long axis of the rink. A “Judge’s Zone”
must be created that includes a space of 10 feet from either end of the judge’s stand
extending two rows in front of the stands and four rows behind. The placement of the
judging stand and the judging zone must be noted in the announcement and preapproved by the referee. In the case of unusual circumstances that prevent such spatial
constructs from being used, the chief referee must approve any deviations.
b. System of Judging - For the “National and International Theatre On Ice” competition
sponsored in part by the Program Development Committee, the open system of judging
will be optional for all junior and senior events while the closed system will be used for
the novice , adult and Preliminary events. For other U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned
Theatre On Ice events, the same rules will apply. The local operating club and the chief
referee will decide and report the decision in the announcement of the competition.
B. MARKING
FREE SKATE JUDGING
Two marks, each between 0 and 6 (given in increments of 0.1 units), will be awarded.
1. Technique of Performance
The following criteria must be considered by the judges when awarding this mark:
a. Utilization of the ice, utilization of space, and the organization of formations.
b. Quality of movements including body positions.
c. Quality of ensembles and rapport between the skaters themselves and groups of
skaters.
d. Overall strength of the skaters on the team as a whole.**
** For d (above) when marking the “overall strength of the skaters on the team as a
whole” judges must consider turns, footwork, spirals, jumps, spins, lifts, and dance
elements included in the performance. Such evaluation must consider the quality of
edge, flow, speed and its variation, carriage, and variety of elements incorporated. An
imbalance of any one type of element will be reflected in this mark.
2. Artistic Mark
The following criteria must be considered by the judges when awarding this mark:
a. Originality and creativity of the performance as a whole as well as its ability to be
interpreted by observers.
b. Establishment of a presence by the skaters individually as well as the intensity and
impact of the performance as a whole.
c. Creation of a universe taking into account the choreography and its execution.
d. Theatricality of the performance.
Use of scenery is not a requirement but if scenery is used it should enhance and not
detract from the performance.
CHOREOGRAPHIC EXERCISE Judging
CHOREOGRAPHIC MARK
1. Clarity of the prescribed theme
2. Clarity of the prescribed choreographic process
3. Clarity of the prescribed gesture (movement)
4. Interpretation of sound/music to support the intent of the program.
TECHNICAL MARK
a. Mastery of gliding and quality of edges.
b. Speed, variety and amplitude of steps and turns, jumps, rotations and attitudes.
c. Quality of execution of movement: body hold and placement.
d. Consistency of the 3 choreographic elements with music and theme.
In the case of a tie, the choreographic mark will determine the higher placement.
C. ACCOUNTING
For all U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned Theatre On Ice competitions, including those
involving teams from foreign federations, the accounting system used is that described
in U.S. Figure Skating rulebook, 3400. It should be noted that competitions held by
foreign federations may use the one-by-one system of accounting. Until this discipline is
under the direct auspices of the ISU and events are sponsored by the ISU, the one-byone system of accounting used in Europe will not be used for competitions hosted by
a U.S. Figure Skating member club.
D. MUSIC SYSTEM
It is strongly suggested that the same music system be used for both the official
practice sessions and the competitions, using two different systems could change
the timing of the music for the teams.
PART 3:
HOW TO START A THEATRE ON ICE TEAM
Summary
Theatre On Ice (Theatre On Ice) competitions are an exciting new aspect of the
sport. Theatre On Ice skaters don’t lose their identity as a skater, but are able
to enhance that identity as a team member. Clubs will benefit from an
increase in membership by attracting new members and retaining current
members. Indeed, many skaters who would historically leave the sport when they
no longer have the time to devote to traditional competitions may find Theatre On
Ice fits their needs well. The added publicity that a Theatre On Ice team
generates for the club is also a benefit. Skaters, both competitive and
noncompetitive, will learn and grow on a theatre team. Best of all, a team is a
great way to draw club skaters together and increase club spirit.
What is Theatre On Ice?
Theatre On Ice is a form of competitive figure skating which combines the grace
of figure skating with the excitement of theater and dance. Teams consist of
between 8 and 30 skaters. (Preliminary and Basic Skills levels have a maximum
of 20 skaters, Open has a maximum of 15 skaters) Solo skating is discouraged,
but is permitted in limited amounts if it enhances the overall telling of the
program’s story. The programs are judged on the basis of a “technique of
performance” and “artistic” marks. There are several Theatre On Ice teams and
Theatre On Ice competitions around the country. For a list of Theatre On Ice
competitions, check the U.S. Figure Skating web site, www.usfigureskating.org
go to “programs” then to Theatre On Ice, or contact the Chair of Theatrical
Skating, Judy Edmunds [email protected] or Vice Chair for Theatre
on Ice, Jim McManus [email protected].
Theatre On Ice must be meaningful and use symbolism: one must bring the
audience to feel emotions through simple suggestive elements. Theatre On Ice
must express imagination and give shape to abstract images thanks to body
gesture. It is the spontaneous and physical counterpart to words.
THEATER ON ICE BENEFITS
Benefits to the Club
• Increases membership and retention
• Generates interest for beginning skaters
• Keeps those who choose to not individually compete involved with your club
• Involves more parents
• Provides the club more publicity and community presence
• Raises money for the club
• Provides club unity
• Teams consists of various ages and abilities
• Older skaters inspire younger skaters
Benefits to the Skater
• Gives the skater more confidence when performing at both competitions and shows
• Gives the skater a chance to develop the dramatic side of their skating
• Gives the skater a chance to be part of a team while continuing to use their technical
skills
• Gives the skater a chance to travel both locally and internationally
• Gives the skater a chance to make new friends both in and out of the club
• Gives the competitive skater a chance to relax while performing and competing
• Brings an emotional spirit into the skaters competition and show skating.
HOW DO YOU START?
Your coaches, team manager or Theatre On Ice committee should organize an
informational meeting for any interested skaters and their parents. The coaching
staff should explain the concept of Theatre On Ice and the plans for your team.
Expectations and responsibilities of the team members and their parents should
also be covered.
Simple Steps
1. The first step is for a club’s Board of Directors to organize an enthusiastic
committee to oversee the team, and determine a team manager. It is
recommended that the club Board of Directors, with the committee and the team
manager be responsible for selecting a coaching staff, fundraising, arranging ice
time, making or obtaining costumes and sets, setting and enforcing team policies
and rules, setting and collecting fees, making arrangements for team travel,
exhibitions and competitions, and acting as a liaison between the parents, club,
and the coaches.
2. The coaching staff will be the single most important aspect of starting a new
team. The coaches must be creative, enthusiastic, dedicated and experienced in
choreography, the technical aspect of skating, and be willing to build a team. Due
to the involved choreography more than one coach is suggested. Coaches with
experience in Theatre On Ice competitions will be difficult to find, but most
coaches have experience doing shows. The coaches must be willing to learn and
attend Theatre On Ice seminars, either domestically, or internationally... The
most important qualities to look for are the ability to select a theme and music,
choreograph a theatrical performance on ice, communicates with the skaters,
and has the enthusiasm to promote the Theatre On Ice concept.
3. Teams must be registered as a Theatre On Ice Team with U.S. Figure Skating.
All members of a team must be U.S. Figure Skating members in their own right.
Therefore this is an opportunity to grow and retain club members. Your club may
want to implement a special membership for Theatre On Ice team skaters. All
levels and ages of skaters may be incorporated together into one team. Levels
include Preliminary, Novice, Junior, Senior, Open and Adult in addition to the
Basic Skills Theatre On Ice 1-4 program.
4. The team manager, or coaching staff, with the approval of the Board of
Directors and Theatre On Ice committee should draw up a contract of rules for
attendance, conduct, dress, fundraising responsibilities, etc. which carefully
outlines the expectations and responsibilities of each team member.
Consequences for violating these rules should be spelled out. Both the skater
and their parent should sign this contract. It is up to the coaching staff, team
management and the committee to enforce these rules. Be firm, the team will be
much happier and more successful if rules are followed.
HAVING A TEAM UP AND RUNNING!
Once a team has been formed, it is a good idea to have a meeting of all
parents. Everyone needs to volunteer time to help out on some aspect of the
team. Subcommittees should be formed to work on costuming, fundraising, travel
arrangements, sets, etc. Teams should strive to be self-supporting even if they
exist within an existing U.S. Figure Skating member club.
Coaching staff should make decisions about costuming and scenery. Costuming
and scenery is an enormous task. One or two costuming chairpersons should
work with the coaching staff. The chairpersons take the ideas from the coaches
and spread the work out among their committee. The scenery committee
functions in much the same way. The member club also needs to decide who
owns and maintains the costumes and sets.
Fundraising is another enormous job. The team manager needs to make sure
that there are a sufficient number of fundraisers planned, make sure they have a
lead person for each event and make certain that all team members are fulfilling
their fundraising obligations.
Team policies need to be developed regarding travel. When traveling by car the
team should decide if drivers will be reimbursed, or travel at their own expense,
and whether the team will be making all the arrangements or just assisting in
arranging rides for skaters that need them. When traveling to a destination that
requires an overnight stay; decide whether the chaperones’ expenses will be
covered. Make sure that whatever arrangements are made, the skaters and their
parents have them in writing. The team should obtain a parent authorization for
each skater for medical or other emergencies and medical information of each
skater, including known problems and insurance information should be kept on
hand. Make sure that if you are traveling out of the country you have the
appropriate documents (including parental permission to leave the country).
Practices: Regularly scheduled practice ice is important to maintain team
cohesion and unity. Off ice practice can be very effective when working on
certain sections of the number, as well as presentation. Attendance, punctuality
and attentiveness are essential elements of a team. Many teams require a
contract with the skater specifying a commitment to practices and the team. The
team should have long- and short-term goals for the season. Hopefully there is a
particular competition that the team is aiming for at the end of the season. There
also must be short-term goals such as smaller competitions or exhibitions. Write
to the clubs in your area and ask to be a “guest skater” at their club show or to
exhibit at their competition. The experience is great for your team and it gives
Theatre On Ice more exposure. Inquire if your community has any festivals in
which you could participate.
Keeping the skaters motivated throughout the year is best accomplished by
giving them goals to work towards. Try to get input from the skaters for the theme
each year. If you can keep an ongoing discussion about new themes, it really
gives the skaters a sense of ownership in the number. It is good idea to have a
team leader or captain, whether appointed by the coaching staff or selected by
the skaters. This skater (or skaters) should have the respect of the other skaters
and be their spokesperson. They should also be able to run the opening drills in
the absence of the coaches, and help keep the practices running smoothly. It
also helps team unity to schedule several team meetings/parties throughout the
season. It gives the skaters a chance to get to know each other, and helps build
team spirit.
CREATING THE NUMBER
Creating the number is quite a challenge. First, the number must have an original
story line or theme. Then you need to find appropriate music to express the
theme. Take the time and money to have the music done well. The
choreography can be quite involved since there frequently is more than one
group doing different steps on the ice at the same time. Occasionally there is
aneed for a single skater to perform a specific role, but their skating should also
beincorporated with the rest of the team. Usually the most effective parts of the
number are when the largest number skate together. Remember the whole
concept is ensemble skating. Moves in the field are easily adapted. Jumps done
in unison or sequence can be very effective, but since each skater must adapt
their jump to other skaters, be careful about difficulty. Spins can easily be
incorporated into the number. Creativity should be used to incorporate right and
left handed skaters. Numbersfrom clubs shows are easily adapted to this form of
competition. Remember that you are creating an entire picture. The music,
costumes and choreography must all be used to create a picture that expresses
the theme. Care should be given to all of these aspects of the number.