Russian figure skater Alexandra Trusova, winner of a silver medal in the individual event at the Beijing Olympics, shared a framed strip dance video on her Telegram channel. The routine was choreographed by the renowned Nastya Yurasova.
“I’m proud to know you! Mother Frame Up Ribbon. Incredible Nastya Yurasova”, Trusova wrote.
In most cases, the frame strip is performed on platforms, with dancers executing elements on the floor wearing specialized footwear that stretches the upper part of the foot, enabling a variety of movements. Some stances and friezes borrow from other dance styles.
Alexei Zheleznyakov, a choreographer with the Eteri Tutberidze group, noted his appreciation for Trusova’s daring performance.
“Sashanka, ignore the noise. The video is striking—no vulgarity, I loved it. It’s wonderful that you stepped forward to try something new. As a choreographer, I understand the moment a dancer feels feminine and animal-like in this piece. Well done”, Zheleznyakov wrote on social media.
Two-time Olympic medalist and prominent ice dance coach Alexander Zhulin also praised Trusova.
“I’m glad this topic is being discussed. I believe the performance won’t harm Sasha. I’m happy that Sasha Trusova is being talked about. No extra comments needed; well done”, according to Sport-Express.
Olympic champion Tatyana Navka supported Trusova’s exploration of a new role.
“To be honest, I’m not fully familiar with this style. Still, Sasha is wise to experiment, even if the specifics aren’t clear. I hope the footwear helps”, Navka stated in an interview with Metaratings.
Yana Rudkovskaya, wife of coach Evgeny Plushenko and a producer, also weighed in.
“I really liked it—unexpected yet compelling. There is a person who grows in different directions, strives to improve, and moves forward. It doesn’t stay in one lane; it develops plasticity. I think there is a strong potential for success in various directions. Beautiful and wonderful”, Rudkovskaya told Sport-Express.
Fans flooded comments with praise: “This is explosive”, “Fire. Just stylish”, “Sashulya, you look stunning, your flexibility is elite”, “Sashulya is unique; it’s not her fault she’s among the best. There’s something otherworldly about her.”
Maria Kuznetsova, a choreographer for Woman Talks and a World of Dance Berlin winner, commented on Trusova’s routine in an interview with socialbites.ca.
– How would you assess Trusova’s performance?
– Technically solid. For instance, the footwork shows good line, especially given she has no prior experience in strip work. It was solid overall.
However, for professional standards there are gaps. The musical phrasing is not perfectly aligned, with several accents not hitting cleanly. The musicality evident in Yurasova’s work is not fully replicated here.
Additionally, Trusova’s hand placement was inconsistent. The overall posture needed more thoughtful positioning, and the movement phrases felt a bit restrained and smooth instead of dynamic.
Choreographer Anastasia Yurasova, responsible for this framing piece, has built a reputation for blending strip concepts with performance. In her approach, movements can carry varied meanings beyond overt sensuality, including lyrical and assertive tones.
The music chosen for the framed strip allows a broad range of moods, from playful to retro, broadening the expressive palette.
Differences between frame-up and classic strip-plastic include the inclusion of diverse moves from breakdance and hip-hop, which widens the stylistic scope. Frame is typically faster, with more vibrant music and sharper, more varied movements.
Another distinction lies in musicality: in frame, the track is often segmented so that rhythm, beats, and bass are all emphasized, not just the melody or vocals.
When asked about Yurasova’s collaboration, Kuznetsova described her as highly influential. “She created and popularized a distinct style that has attracted international attention. Many artists come to learn from her, and the concept has taken root in Russia”, Kuznetsova noted.
Regarding the prospect of translating strip-based moves to ice, the responder emphasized that strip work typically involves movements performed while seated or lying on the floor. Since figure skating is primarily a standing discipline, a direct transfer to ice is not feasible, especially given the different footwear requirements.
Ultimately, framing can sharpen precision and musicality in movement. It offers insights that may inform future dance elements within figure skating, though the two forms remain distinct in technique and presentation.