Local skater to perform at the greatest outdoor show on earth

Times Contributor

 

Lindsey Woodcock of Strathmore is set to perform in the “Production of Nashira” at the Calgary Stampede this July. 

“I’ve always wanted to do something like this,” said Woodcock.

After hearing of the show from coach Jeff Langdon, Woodcock decided to audition. The auditions were held at the Flames Community Arena in Calgary. There were 30 skaters in attendance, and after learning a routine in five minutes the hard work began. Woodcock beat out some tough competition. 

“We had to learn the routine, perform various tricks such as jumps and spins and I also had to do an interview as part of the audition process,” said Woodcock. 

A week later she got the call back. A lot of training will have to be done prior to the show, but Woodcock, being a disciplined athlete already, is ready for the challenge. As of July 1, full-day rehearsals will be the daily regime for Woodcock as routines have to be executed with perfection come Stampede time. 

France Gavvin is the choreographer of the production this year and it is expected to be spectacular. 

“The costumes are awesome and the props will be really fun,” said Woodcock. 

Woodcock will be skating in the Stampede Corral Arena alongside the likes of Jamie Sale and David Pelletier, gold medalists in the 2002 Olympic Games, Vaughn Chipeur who competed in the 2010 Olympic Games, and another accomplished local skater, Erica Risseuw and her skating partner Robert Paxton. 

Following the Stampede, the production will go on tour starting in February of 2012. 

“I thought it would be a great experience and something fun to do,” said Woodcock. 

As for the future, Woodcock plans to obtain her coaching certification to pass on the knowledge and passion of figure skating on to eager students.