The Stars on Ice tour had been playing with different transitions over
the years - the Muses in 1998 being a notable example. In 2000's tour,
Kurt's Raggy character and his big brown satchel provided the
connective link between programs, staying fully in character as he
snatched women's purses, rode a scooter down the boards, napped on the
big zebra couch at the beginning of the act II opener, lost and found
his satchel throughout the show, and finally introduced the finale. It
was almost like they were making up for his absence the year before
with a show full of Kurt.
The 2000 Stars on Ice tour also celebrated Scott Hamilton's long-time
friendships with several of the cast members in an extended Act I
closing ensemble to the music of Simon and Garfunkel. Entitled "Old
Friends," the ensemble centered around Scott Hamilton's goofy, sweet
personality, with his friends skating in tribute or just plain playing
around him. In the US, Kurt and Steven Cousins goofed around to "Me &
Julio" while Scott watched in delight, and in Canada, Brian Orser was
added to the mix. The ensemble ended with Scott, Kurt, Steven,
Kristi, and Katia (plus pretty much the whole cast in Canada) hanging
around together, pretending to take goofy group photos, and skating in
sync to the song "Old Friends," a sweet statement on friendship among
the cast.
What is NOT a favorite memory? Mr. Footwork, Mr. Entertainment,
Mr. Still Got It Going On! One memory: The mid-to-late 90s, the
Palace of Auburn Hills. I've got good seats - lower bowl, center
ice. Kurt had a tiny bobble right in front of us (yes, even skategods
are fallible). I just remember him looking up at us, smiling, making a
"Whew!" gesture. So cute. - Amy J. Parrent
Favorite memory; Dragged my friend to Lake Placid to see the
S.O.I. rehearsals. We weren't allowed in but ran into Kurt in a pub
where he was waiting for his take out meal. Of course I had to go over
and say hi. He was so amazing! He actually took the time to talk to us
and ended up eating his meal with us and then thanked us for the
company and left. A few years after I saw him at a meet and greet
after S.O.I. show in Montreal and he actually recognized me. I was
blown away. Kurt, you are a class act! Can't wait for April 25!!!! - Lyne Santello
Even my children, two that skate and one who doesn't, enjoy
and respect Kurt's skating and look forward to his programs.
To me he is the Baryshnikov of ice skating! - Stephanie Tom Hoon
