Skaters love Aud's magic

KITCHENER -- They think there's something magical about the building.

Maybe it's the ice, or the cosy stands or the screaming fans.

Whatever it is, some of Canada's biggest figure skating stars love performing at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, especially in shows such as last night's star-studded Holiday Festival on Ice.

"We have nothing but good memories for this place," said Olympic gold medallist Jamie Sale, chatting with her partner David Pelletier during dress rehearsal yesterday afternoon.

The last time the pair competed in the building, which was a year ago, they won gold at the ISU Grand Prix final.

"That (competition) was electrifying," said Pelletier. "The crowd here was unbelievable. When we stepped on the ice, they were so loud. I'm sure it will be loud again tonight."

That was a safe bet, considering more than 4,000 people packed the stands.

Fans were in for a Christmas-themed show starring 13 Canadian and international champions, including such veterans as four-time world champion Kurt Browning, two-time Olympic silver medalist Brian Orser and five-time Canadian champ Jennifer Robinson.

Also performing were such up-and-coming stars as Canadian bronze medallists Jeffrey Buttle and pairs team Annabelle Langlois and Patrice Archetto.

Everyone was scheduled to do two solo numbers, including one holiday-themed performance. The skaters also performed as a group, skating in red and white costumes to such traditional Christmas tunes as Joy to the World, Winter Wonderland and Jingle Bells.

"Christmas is a happy time. It's a celebration of family and friends," said Orser, who has choreographed Holiday Festival on Ice for the past two years. Last year, the show was staged in Sarnia.

For his routine, Orser chose Garth Brooks' version of his favourite Christmas song -- It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. "If you're not excited about Christmas by now, you will be after the show is over."

Browning showed his Christmas spirit as he rehearsed a routine to Rain Drops on Roses, a number requiring that he skate while juggling a Christmas present.

The champion couldn't wait to do the routine in front of the cheering Kitchener crowd. He said this area is a basin of loud, dedicated figure skating fans.

"You really feel like a star when you're out there," he said. "I love it. It makes it easy to have confidence."

Sale, who turned professional this year, said she hopes the show gave something back to all the dedicated local fans.

"They've supported us," she said. "This is our way to thank them."