The World of Professional Skating

This chapter discusses the world of professional skating. The Ice Follies, Hollywood Ice Review, and Ice Capades were founded between 1936 and 1941, years immediately preceding U.S. entry into World War II. Holiday on Ice was founded during the war years. All survived the War and became increasingly spectacular as competition among them led to large casts, elaborate sets, and lavish costumes. These permanently established touring companies that operated with large budgets, professional production staffs, and many of the world's most decorated skaters challenged the role of the amateur club carnival, a tradition dating from the nineteenth century. Carnivals, which had reached their peak in the 1930s, continued well into the postwar era, but their ability to compete with professional shows gradually declined.