The ice at Hastings Civic Arena will sparkle a little brighter this weekend as River Blades Skating School celebrates a milestone.
The local skating program is marking its 20th anniversary with its annual ice show, “Dreaming of Disney,” set for Saturday, March 7, at 7 p.m. The event will bring a cast of familiar characters to life on ice, all performed by hometown skaters.
Organizers describe the anniversary as more than just a show.
“This show highlights the passion, confidence, and community River Blades has built in Hastings over the past 20 years, and it’s incredibly meaningful for our skaters to perform for their hometown audience.”
Over the years, River Blades has grown into a steady presence in the community, offering young skaters a place to learn skills, build friendships, and gain confidence. According to organizers, the program focuses on more than jumps and spins.
“Building self esteem and confidence for life.”
That mission will be on full display as skaters transform into some of Disney’s most recognizable characters. Audience members can expect appearances from Mickey and Minnie, Donald and Goofy, Tinker Bell, Aladdin and the Genie, the Hercules Muses, Beauty and the Beast, Ariel and Sebastian, Princess Tiana, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Captain Hook, Cruella De Vil, characters from The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Moana and Maui, Lilo and Stitch, Tarzan’s gorillas, Encanto, The Incredibles, Maleficent, Wish, Mulan, Toy Story and more.
The annual production has become a tradition for many local families, drawing crowds who come to cheer on neighbors, classmates, and friends. For the skaters, it is a chance to step into the spotlight and perform for a supportive hometown audience.
The show will take place at Hastings Civic Arena, 2801 Redwing Blvd. Tickets will be available at the door and are cash only. Admission is $12 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, and free for children age 4 and under.
As River Blades celebrates two decades on the ice, organizers are inviting the community to fill the stands, applaud loudly, and enjoy an evening of skating, storytelling, and hometown pride.