Theatre On Ice Part 1: 2013-2014 Theatre On Ice Guidelines and Rules Part 2: 2013-2014 Theatre On Ice Competition Rules Part 3: How to Form a Team 1
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 the music, theme and choreography is consistent with one another and 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 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 5.07). 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, Member Services or online at usfigureskating.org and may be submitted any time of the year All Theatre on Ice teams must have registered with US Figure Skating before entering any US Figure Skating sanctioned competition. The final deadline for teams to register with US Figure Skating for the National/International Theatre On Ice competitions is 45 days prior to the close of entries. 2
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 visible portion of the performance. A team may have only 4 alternates but no more than 24 may skate in a competition. Open level teams are limited to a maximum of twenty (20) skaters on a team. The same skaters must skate both CE and Free Skate in combined events. 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 1 st. (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. non-qualifying 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. TEAM COMPETITION CATEGORY A Theatre on Ice team competition category is defined by the team members test levels. TESTING DEADLINE Members of a team may continue to take USFS test up to 45 days prior to the close of entries for the National/International Theatre On Ice competitions. A skater must not surpass the maximum test level according to the team s competition category. Teams entering any TOI competition other than the National/International competition must abide by that competition s test deadline. 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 Pre-Bronze 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 1 st 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 1 st 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-Preliminary MIF test. Age requirement as of the preceding December 1 st : 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 24 skaters. Choreographic Exercise duration is 2 minutes plus or minus 10 seconds. Skate duration is 2minutes 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 1 st 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), free skate or pairs. Teams consist of a minimum of 8 skaters and a maximum of 20 skaters. There is no age limit. This level does not qualify for Nations 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 and gained the approval of the National TOI Vice Chair D. COMPETITIONS At present, all Theatre On Ice competitions held under the jurisdiction of U.S. Figure Skating are nonqualifying competitions. The Theatrical Skating Committee, whose oversight currently covers Theatre On Ice in U.S. Figure Skating, will assist any member club in sponsoring an International Theatre On Ice Competition which 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. CROSSOVER RULE No Crossovers are permitted in any division (meaning skaters may not participate on two different level teams during the same competition). 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 1 st Minimum test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for National Theatre On Ice competition More than 50% of the team must have passed the Juvenile or Adult Gold Free Skate 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 National Theatre On Ice competition No more than 50% of the team may have passed the Juvenile or Adult gold Free Skate test or higher 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 1 st Minimum test qualifications as of 30 days prior to the close of entries for the National Theatre On Ice competition 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 December1 st of the competition year No skater may have reached age 19 as of December 1 st 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 30 days prior to the close of entries for the National Theatre On Ice competition. 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 1 st : 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 Minimum test qualifications as of December 1 st Minimum of 8 skaters on a team - maximum of 24 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 1 st 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 the National Theatre On Ice competition. 100% of the team must have passed at least one U.S. Figure Skating MIF, free skate, dance or pairs test (not including Basic Skills) No age restrictions Minimum of 8 skaters on a team - maximum of 20 skaters 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 enhance their performance. (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 performance (i.e. such as behind a curtain or piece of scenery), but must remain on the ice surface itself during the entire performance. All participants must wear their skates on the ice at all times. No one can remain behind the scenery, curtain or props for the entire performance they must be an integral part of the performance Before the music is started the team must take a stationary position on the ice and a skater must give a hand signal. 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 () 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.) 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 FREE SKATE PERFORMANCES a. Senior: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds b. Junior: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds c. Novice: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds d. Adult: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds e. Preliminary: 2 minutes 30 seconds plus or minus 10 seconds f. Open: 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 Taken By Highlighting 0.1 Judges See Page 6 Falls 0.1 per skater Judges Costume/Hair/Make-Up (CE) 0.2 Judges CE: Theatrical Make-up, Hair accessories, incorrect hairstyle, costumes with decoration or cut outs. Time over/under 0.1 per 10 sec Refereenotify judges Scenery set up violation time 0.1 per 10 seconds Step Rule 0.1 Refereenotify judges Refereenotify judges 2 minutes from announcement of team,2 minutes for scenery removal at conclusion of the program Skaters may not step off the ice when moving scenery and prop people may not step on the ice when moving scenery on or off. USFS prop staff will notify event referee if this happens Debris on Ice (bobby pins, pieces of scenery, etc) 0.1 Refereenotify judges Scenery/Props 0.2 For each violation Refereenotify judges Over size requirements for scenery, trampolines or other devices used to assist skaters jumping into the air, use of smoke, fire, liquids, live animals or other substances which may harm a skaters or the ice surface. Entering/Exiting Ice Time 0.1 Refereenotify judges Coaching from the Sideline 0.1 Refereenotify judges Coaching, prompting or directing From a coach during performance or handing over items is not allowed Audio Description longer than 30 seconds 0.1 Refereenotify judges 8
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), Unitards (or 2 parts, but no skin visible in between) are recommended. The absence of sleeves is accepted 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 the 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. 9
2014 CE Elements Choreographic Elements (all three) should be present and integrated into the entire program. Development of the elements in a variety ways will be rewarded. Elimination of an element should reflect in the marks. Theme Memory: Clearly demonstrating the concept of Memory as a theme throughout the piece. References can be drawn from the biological, psychological, social, cultural and historical meanings. Ex. Honoring a memory of someone (tribute), memory loss, Berlin Wall etc. *Memory must be demonstrated in purpose by the choreography, body movement, expressions and connection to the audience visually. Choreographic Process Retrograde/Auto-reverse: Repeating a motif, gesture, or larger sequence of body movement and skating movement in reverse order. (Utilization of ice space can also be used to accentuate the process, but must also include a sequence of movement.) *Same Retrogression as used in Synchro and IJS. Body Movement / Gesture Suspension: A hovering/delay in space (weightlessness) before a drop of movement (swing or release) caused by gravity. Using body weight and density as it relates to Energy put into the body movement and technical skating elements with the emphasis on the delayed nature of Suspension. Ex: roller coaster *Though suspension can be demonstrated in lifts, it must also be shown with variety of body movement by individuals and/or groups.
PART 2 COMPETITION RULES 1. COMPETITIONS: To encourage the growth of theater on ice competitions it is suggested that team managers notify the National Vice Chair of theater on ice of any USFS or International competitions offering TOI events. Those approved competitions will then be added to the TOI website competition calendar. THEATER ON ICE EVENTS Events will include choreographic exercise and free skating NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE ICE: o Once the official practice ice has begun at Nations Cup or TOI National Competition no team is permitted to practice at another rink with the exception of the official or unofficial practice ice provided by the LOC. o 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. 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/ unofficial 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. o 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 competition, the above criteria must be used. There is no set height for the curtain. COSTUMES 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 or a 0.1 deduction will be taken. No bobby-pins, feathers, or anything else which can fall to the ice and be hazardous to the skaters will be allowed a0.1 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 a0.1 deduction will be taken TRAMPOLINES OR OTHER SUCH APPARATUS USED TO ASSIST SKATERS JUMPING INTO THE AIR IS NOT PERMITTED. A 0.1 deduction will be taken. Skaters will have two-minutes from the time the team is announced to set-up any scenery and assume starting position. Skaters may use any or all of this two minute period to warm-up. 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. No one can remain behind the scenery, curtain or props for entire performance. Everyone on the ice must be an integral part of the performance. An announcement will be made after 1 minute has elapsed. Another announcement will be made when 1 minute and 30-seconds have elapsed.. 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 over the allotted 2 min time limit. 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 0.1 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 which are over or under the time allotment the standard time deductions will apply as per U.S. Figure Skating rule 7912 for CE and rule 7913 for Free skate (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. Audio Description: May be up to 30 seconds and must be recorded on the CD/tape. This description is not included in the timing of the program unless a team member begins moving during the audio description. This also applies to the Choreographic Exercise. A 0.1 deduction will be taken. LENGTH OF FREE SKATE PERFORMANCES* a. Senior: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds b. Junior : 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds c. Novice: 5 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds d. Adult: 6 minutes plus or minus 15 seconds e. Preliminary: 2 minutes 30 seconds plus or minus 10 seconds f. Open: 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 will not be started until the team has taken their position and given the hand signal signifying they are ready to start. 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 any member of the team is moving/skating during the audio description the program timing will be started. Any or all of these movements will be included in the total time allotment for the team s performance. The audio description 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 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
competition should be submitted directly to the U.S. Figure Skating Competitions Chair with a copy to the National Vice Chair of Theatre On Ice and the Chair for Theatrical Skating. 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 Committee 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. o Any team receiving an invitation directly from another country or federation inviting them to attend, should forward that invitation to The national vice chair and the chair for Theatrical Skating Committee 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 website It is strongly suggested that any team traveling outside of the United States for competition purchase trip cancellation insurance. ) A skater who meets the eligibility rules of their federation / association 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. K. 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 they take full responsibility for handling any and all matters which may occur at the International Competition out of the United States. Teams must be fully aware of all International rules protecting the eligibility of their skaters. It is strongly suggested teams wishing to travel internationally Adopt a Judge, The National Vice Chair and Chair of Theatrical Skating will assign the judge / team leader. This person must have international experience and will be an accredited THEATRE ON ICE judge. The person assigned will care for best interest of the team. 2. JUDGING A. OFFICIALS Judges must go through a trial judging process to be recognized as an official Theatre On Ice judge. A list of certified Theatre On Ice judges may be found on the U.S. Figure Skating website. Only approved TOI judges will be used for National and International competitions. It is recommended that approved Theatre On Ice judges be used whenever possible. Only approved TOI judges will be used for team critiques. Trial judge guidelines may be found on TOI website
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 XXV, Section 3. The chief referee will decide upon any breaches that may occur, even without protest, and verify the award of places under 6.0 system in the USFS Rulebook as submitted by the accountant. (see rule 1060) 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 competitions, the ice referee should be either a sectional or a national referee in any discipline. JUDGES PANEL For all Theatre On Ice competitions sanctioned 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 competitions. If the open system of marking is used, then an assistant referee is also needed. 1. 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 pre-approved by the referee. In the case of unusual circumstances which prevent such special constructs from being used, the chief referee must approve any deviations. 2. System of Judging - For the National and International Theatre On Ice competitions sponsored in part by the Theatrical Skating 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 and open events. For other U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned Theatre On Ice events, the same rules will apply. The local organizing club and the chief referee will decide and report the decision in the announcement of the USFS sanctioned 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 Two marks, each between 0 and 6 (given in increments of 0.1 units), will be awarded. 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 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. e. A planned program sheet for the Choreographic Exercise will be provided with the announcements for National Theatre On Ice competitions
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 (see rule 1060 USFS rulebook).d. MUSIC SYSTEM- It is strongly suggested 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 their 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 a Theatre On Ice team generates for the club is also beneficial. 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 24 skaters. (, Open and Basic Skills levels have a maximum of 20 skaters) Solo skating is discouraged, but is permitted in limited amounts if it enhances the overall performance. The Free skate programs are judged on the basis of technique of performance and artistic mark. The CE is judged on the choreographic and technical 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 website, www.usfigureskating.org go to programs then to Theatre On Ice. For additional information contact the National Vice Chair for Theater on Ice, Judy Edmunds, Judyedmunds@gmail.com or The Theatrical Skating Committee Chair Roland Bessette, rolandb7@gmail.com. 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 and to body gesture. THEATER ON ICE 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
THEATER ON ICE 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, Open, Novice, Junior, Senior 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 there are a sufficient number of fundraisers planned, make sure they have a lead person for each event and make certain 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. When traveling to a destination needing an overnight stay; decide whether the chaperones expenses will be covered. Make sure 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, 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 goal for the season. Hopefully in the long term the team will aim to enter the National TOI Competition. However, short term goals such as smaller competitions, shows and exhibitions are suggested. 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 a need for a single skater to perform a specific role, but their skating should also be incorporated 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. Numbers from clubs shows are easily adapted to this form of competition. Remember you are creating an entire picture. The music, costumes and choreography must all be used to create a picture which expresses the theme.