Evgeni Plushenko, the legendary two-time Olympic figure skating champion, recently clarified why he did not perform the levitation sequence planned for his theatrical production The Little Mermaid. His stance, shared with Sports Express, centers on a personal fear of heights. Rather than forcing himself into a risky moment, Plushenko chose to rely on younger performers to carry the aerial portion of the number, underscoring a broader commitment to safety and the practical strengths of his ensemble. The show’s production values remain high, but the decision to adapt the aerial elements reflects a deliberate approach to stagecraft that protects the performers while preserving the artistic intent.
Plushenko stated that, like many others involved in high-flying performances, he was expected to appear in flight. However, he refused due to his fear of heights, and the team pivoted to utilize younger participants to realize the sequence. He emphasized that the company benefits from a large pool of active athletes who contribute to the show, highlighting the importance of leveraging the talents of a dynamic and capable cast. The line about jumping