Editor's note: Brad Vigorito is a co-producer of the show.
2018 Olympic Team Event bronze medalist Mirai Nagasu and 2006 World champion Kimmie Meissner headlined the 20th anniversary of the ALEX AND ANI City Center Tree Lighting on Dec. 1, 2018, in Providence, Rhode Island. The show, produced by Sarah DiNardo and Brad Vigorito since 2015, has previously starred Olympians Michelle Kwan and Marissa Castelli.
This year, the show featured local regional and sectional competitors as well as Rhode Island's Ocean State Ice Theatre teams and the Ocean Blades Synchronized Skating Team. Meissner skated a beautiful program to "Ave Maria," choreographed by Nathan Birch, that showcased her edging, spirals and fast spins.
Nagasu wowed the audience with her new program to "Halo" by Beyoncé, choreographed by Tom Dickson. The two-time Olympian talked to the audience following her skate about her recent experience on Dancing with the Stars and the excitement of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018. The show collected toys for Toys for Tots and filled over three collection bins for the charity.
Both Meissner and Nagasu had a busy week following the show, visiting local schools, teaching on-ice seminars and giving private lessons. On Dec. 3, the two visited Mount Saint Charles Academy in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, and spent the day with skaters in the school's "Sur la Glace" program.
The U.S. skaters also talked to a fifth grade class at Whelan Elementary School in North Providence about their lives as athletes and students. Their talk included discussion on goal-setting, whether those goals are landing a triple Axel, earning an A on a science exam or becoming a doctor. They also talked to the students about the pressure from social media and the importance of real-time conversation with peers.Â
Meissner and Nagasu also traveled to local rinks in the area giving students private lessons. They participated in a meet and greet, inspiring young skaters from all over Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts to always believe in their dreams.
"It was an absolute pleasure to participate in the City of Providence's tree lighting show," Nagasu said. "I loved my time here and enjoyed getting to connect with so many talented young skaters."
