Watch The Fabulous Ice Age

In The Fabulous Ice Age, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey through the world of ice skating from the 1930s to the 1970s. The documentary explores the cultural, economic and artistic impact that ice skating had on American society during this period. Narrated by Emmy Award-winning journalist Dick Button, The Fabulous Ice Age features interviews with some of ice skating's greatest legends, including ice dancing pioneers Roy Blakey and Denise Benoit-Eby, as well as figure skating stars like Stephanie Andros.

The documentary begins in the early 1930s, when ice skating was still considered a leisure activity for the wealthy. However, with the onset of the Great Depression, many ice rinks were forced to close down, and it seemed that ice skating might disappear altogether.

But then, in the 1940s, a group of show producers and performers came together to create a new kind of ice show - one that combined the glamour and spectacle of Broadway with the grace and athleticism of skating. These shows, which featured elaborate costumes, dramatic lighting and intricate skating routines, quickly became a sensation.

The Fabulous Ice Age explores the many different ice shows that emerged during this period, including Shipstad and Johnson's Ice Follies, Ice Capades, and Ice Cycles. Through interviews with former performers and rare archival footage, viewers get a glimpse into the magic and excitement of these shows, which were some of the biggest entertainment extravaganzas of their time.

Another major focus of The Fabulous Ice Age is the impact that figure skating had on American society during the 1950s and 60s. With the rise of television, figure skating was suddenly thrust into the national spotlight, and it quickly became one of the most popular sports in the country.

The documentary explores the lives and careers of some of the era's most iconic skaters, including Sonja Henie, Dick Button, and Peggy Fleming. Viewers learn about the intense physical and mental training required to be a professional skater, as well as the many challenges and sacrifices these athletes had to make in order to succeed.

But The Fabulous Ice Age is not just a celebration of ice skating's past - it's also a testament to the enduring power of this timeless art form. The documentary concludes with a look at modern-day ice shows, including Disney on Ice and Stars on Ice, which continue to entertain audiences around the world with their dazzling displays of athleticism and creativity.

Overall, The Fabulous Ice Age is a tribute to the artists, athletes, and innovators who helped shape the world of ice skating as we know it today. Through its engaging storytelling and stunning visuals, the documentary captures the essence of a bygone era and inspires viewers to embrace the magic and wonder of ice skating for generations to come.

The Fabulous Ice Age is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.