An indoor snow centre near Manchester has revived the forgotten skill of ski ballet – for one day only.
Ski Ballet will be unknown to many however this demonstration sport was competed on a World stage at the 1988 and 1992 Winter Olympics before fading into history after it’s discontinuation in 2000.
Consisting of a choreographed routine of jumps, spins and tricks – all performed on skis – the impressive sport of ski ballet, occasionally referred to as ‘acroski’, is alleged to have inspired the freestyle skiing we know today.
Now 18 years after the last known ski ballet event, the Chill Factore indoor snow centre has brought together the stars of the sport to showcase the unusual spectacle of ski ballet for one day only to mark the launch of its ‘Give It A Go’ campaign.
The Give It A Go initiative, running from 1st March through to 31st May, hopes to encourage those who are considering getting into snowsports but may not have the confidence to take the plunge, as well as those who are already competent on skis or snowboarding, to try something new – be it a new discipline or just taking their skills to the next level.
In a bid to inspire people to Give It A Go and try something new, Eddie The Eagle has been combining his love of skiing and dancing to try his hand at Ski Ballet, a discipline much different to the ski jumping he is well-known for. He was taking guidance from British ski ballet athlete, Mark Hussey, who won the British Championships and was a member of the Ski Ballet England squad.
“Although Ski Ballet isn’t around like we used to know it, you can see the many similarities in the freestyle sports we see today. I’ve spent a brilliant morning with Eddie the Eagle and really seen his skill shine through. In about an hour, he’s learnt what it would take an average skier to learn in a very long time – he’s a natural! It’s been many years since I put on my old ballet skis and made me hungry to do more! With access to places like Chill Factore, which has the perfect conditions for the sport, it’s been amazing to revive it for the day,” said Mark
“Where did Ski Ballet go?” asked Eddie, “It was such a graceful dance which showcased some incredible spins, twist, turns and flips. To have been asked by Chill Factore to come along and get involved was fantastic and after giving it a go, I think I’ve been quite successful! Also to have been able to learn the technique from a professional like Mark has been brilliant and something I’ll definitely try again!”
Give It A Go launches at Chill Factore until the end of May 2018, and will be offering half-price Ski and Snowboard lessons, Fun Taster sessions for under £20 and ‘Get your second hour in the Snow Park for £5’ …but not ski ballet lessons.
