Olympic gold medallist and celebrated figure skater Tatiana Navka , along with her troupe, performed in Ahmedabad recently, presenting a state-of-the-art ice show based on Arabian folk tales , a first in India. Talking to us just before the show, Scheherazade Ice Show, debuted, Tatiana, who won ice dance gold with Roman Kostomarov while representing Russia at the 2006 Winter Olympics, spoke about how “culture-centric” Ahmedabad appealed to her, how she conceptualises big-scale shows and more.
‘It was exciting to come here and set up an ice rink in Ahmedabad’
The show, which combines world-class figure skating, tech, music, and dynamic choreography, was performed for the first time in India. Tatiana says, “We have been to the UAE and Qatar, and it took us a long time to decide where we wanted to perform next. Finally, we chose India because the audience here loves stories and culture. I believe Ahmedabad is a cultural centre; a lot of shows are coming here now. Also, such collaborations are very important for strengthening the relationship between our countries.”
When asked about the challenges of performing for an audience which comes with a fresh mindset and hasn’t probably watched a show like this locally, she says, “It’s actually very exciting. It was unbelievable that we could manage to come here and set up an ice rink in Ahmedabad. There’s always a worry before going on ice, but the only thing that motivates us is the idea that people have not seen something like this before. It gives us more energy to perform.”
‘Sometimes, my daughter gives me ideas’
Talking about ideating and executing large-scale concepts, Tatiana says, “I really like costumes, music, dancing, everything. This show has been one of my dreams for many years, which came true.”
On her creative process, she adds, “First, I conceive in my mind what I would like to see on ice; what my daughter (Nadezhda, 10) would like to see. Sometimes, she gives me ideas as well. I also have a big team of professionals and they also come up with ideas. This is my life; I love to do this.”
‘ Gujarat ’s deep-rooted history fascinated me’
In a statement, Tatiana had expressed her excitement about delving into Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage. “India’s artistic traditions are admired worldwide, and Gujarat’s deep-rooted history and colourful culture have truly fascinated my team and me. The warmth, energy, and creativity of this region resonate with us deeply. I was particularly excited to immerse myself in the local traditions and experience firsthand the beauty and passion that Indian culture brings to the world,” she shared.
‘It was exciting to come here and set up an ice rink in Ahmedabad’
The show, which combines world-class figure skating, tech, music, and dynamic choreography, was performed for the first time in India. Tatiana says, “We have been to the UAE and Qatar, and it took us a long time to decide where we wanted to perform next. Finally, we chose India because the audience here loves stories and culture. I believe Ahmedabad is a cultural centre; a lot of shows are coming here now. Also, such collaborations are very important for strengthening the relationship between our countries.”
When asked about the challenges of performing for an audience which comes with a fresh mindset and hasn’t probably watched a show like this locally, she says, “It’s actually very exciting. It was unbelievable that we could manage to come here and set up an ice rink in Ahmedabad. There’s always a worry before going on ice, but the only thing that motivates us is the idea that people have not seen something like this before. It gives us more energy to perform.”
‘Sometimes, my daughter gives me ideas’
Talking about ideating and executing large-scale concepts, Tatiana says, “I really like costumes, music, dancing, everything. This show has been one of my dreams for many years, which came true.”
On her creative process, she adds, “First, I conceive in my mind what I would like to see on ice; what my daughter (Nadezhda, 10) would like to see. Sometimes, she gives me ideas as well. I also have a big team of professionals and they also come up with ideas. This is my life; I love to do this.”
‘ Gujarat ’s deep-rooted history fascinated me’
In a statement, Tatiana had expressed her excitement about delving into Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage. “India’s artistic traditions are admired worldwide, and Gujarat’s deep-rooted history and colourful culture have truly fascinated my team and me. The warmth, energy, and creativity of this region resonate with us deeply. I was particularly excited to immerse myself in the local traditions and experience firsthand the beauty and passion that Indian culture brings to the world,” she shared.
You may also like
UK PM Starmer brushes off Trump's claims of election interference
Special NIA court convicts another key accused in Pak-based Indian defence spying case
Bethesda celebrates Fallout Day with free week of 'Fallout 76'
Terry Bradshaw told to retire from Fox Sports immediately after another blunder on live TV
Strictly star Shirley Ballas forced to turn to alternative treatments to avoid spine surgery
