The choreographer and director of the Eteri Tutberidze group, Daniil Gleikhengauz, spoke about selecting a joint female program for the show titled Champions on Ice. He explained that the discussion with Eteri Georgievna centered on the idea that a boys’ segment would not be necessary at this time, and he wanted to present a program featuring both girls and boys. The choice of music was a key factor because it is compelling and carries a message he appreciates: who holds the world in their hands? Girls. The approach showcased three Olympic champions and demonstrated that their artistry and form give them a strong command of the ice. The combination of outfits, performers, and a signature trick created a slightly different ending that still felt intensely captivating for the audience, especially in the context of the program they labeled “Championship.”
The ice show featured Alina Zagitova, Kamila Valieva, and Anna Shcherbakova, all of whom are Olympic champions. Zagitova earned the title of Olympic champion in singles skating and added a silver medal in the team tournament at the 2018 Games. She remains the only figure skater in Russian history to claim all major international titles in the sport. Valieva took the team gold at the Olympic Games, while Shcherbakova won the singles title at the 2022 Games, cementing their status as top competitors in their generation.
Interest around the production extended beyond the on-ice performances. In related commentary, former skater Maxim Trankov drew a parallel between Tutberidze and a legendary football coach, underscoring the influence and confidence associated with the coaching philosophy and the ensemble’s approach to performance and preparation. The overall presentation of Champions on Ice emphasized not only technical prowess but also the storytelling arc that connects the skaters with the audience, signaling a blend of artistry and athleticism that defines the show for contemporary viewers.
Gleikhengauz’s reflections highlight how the collaboration across disciplines and generations can elevate a program. By weaving together strong musical choices with bold staging and the celebrated prowess of Zagitova, Valieva, and Shcherbakova, the show sought to create a memorable finale that resonates with fans and invites fresh interpretations of what it means to lead on the ice. The emphasis on female excellence, paired with the dynamic energy of a mixed-gender cast, offered a narrative that aligns with broader conversations about leadership, influence, and the evolving role of female athletes in elite sports.
Fans and commentators noted the strategic decision to foreground three Olympic champions, each carrying distinct strengths and styles. This combination demonstrated a spectrum of artistry—from precise technique to expressive performance—while maintaining a cohesive theme centered on empowerment and mastery. The production stood out for its bold concept, signaling that the sport’s future may continue to blend storytelling with high-level competition, and that the voices of the skaters themselves can shape the direction of showcase events in meaningful ways.