The 2025 Stars on Ice tour roared into Boston on May 24 with an electrifying new theme: “Rock Stars on Ice.” This tour offers a bold, new take on ice shows by blending the power of rock music with the athleticism of world-class figure skating.
The event featured an all-star cast of skaters, including reigning world champions Ilia Malinin, Madison Chock and Evan Bates; Alysa Liu; and many other fan favorites. Held just three months after the World Championships in the same city, the Boston stop felt especially meaningful.
The night also held great emotional significance as Stars on Ice welcomed hometown favorite Maxim Naumov. A three-time U.S. National Pewter medalist, Naumov performed publicly for the first time on home ice since losing his parents, who were World Pair Champions, in the American Airlines Flight 5342 tragedy.
It was a night that blended energy, emotion, and excellence, celebrating both rock and resilience against the vibrant backdrop of the Tenley E. Albright Performance Center at the Skating Club of Boston.
A Lineup of Stars
The Boston show was headlined by Ilia Malinin, the reigning two-time world champion and three-time U.S. champion. He is famous for making history as the first and only skater to land a quadruple axel in competition.
Malinin was joined by Alysa Liu, who made an inspiring return to competition this year by capturing the World title, becoming the first U.S. woman to do so since 2006.
Madison Chock and Evan Bates, Olympic team gold medalists and three-time world champions, also took the stage, bringing their signature creativity and energy to the ice.
The rest of the cast included:
Isabeau Levito, world silver medalist and U.S. champion;
Amber Glenn, Grand Prix Final and two-time U.S. champion;
Jason Brown, Olympic Team bronze medalist and U.S. champion;
Keegan Messing, an Olympian and two-time Canadian champion;
and Satoko Miyahara, a two-time world medalist and four-time Japanese champion.
The show would not have been complete without the “King of Rock on Ice,” Elvis Stojko, who made his highly anticipated U.S. Stars on Ice debut after years of performing on the Canadian tour.
A Rock Concert on Ice
From the moment the show began, it was clear that this was not a traditional ice show. Rather than introducing each skater as in a competition, the show flowed seamlessly, featuring high-energy transitions and live commentary from the Iceman of Stars FM. This gave the show the vibe of a rock concert or music festival on ice.
Program Highlights:
The show kicked off with a group dance — four ladies circling Isabeau Levito in an elegant and playful introduction. Isabeau skated to Breakfast at Tiffany’s, donning a classic black dress reminiscent of the film’s iconic look.
Jason Brown brought the audience to life with his joyful program, which featured skating with a chair. The crowd was thrilled by his signature smile and his spread eagle into a double axel with the chair.
Amber Glenn followed with a fierce performance to Heads Will Roll, including a side flip and knee slide that perfectly matched the show’s rock vibe.
Keegan Messing performed to I Was Made for Lovin’ You, wearing a white t-shirt and jeans, with a playful “dirty” towel tucked in his waistband. His program featured powerful hydro blades and two backflips — a crowd favorite.
Alysa Liu delivered a stunning performance to Slow Dancing in the Dark, wearing a striking black and flame-colored dress. The piece reflected her personal journey of renewal following her retirement and triumphant return.
Ilia Malinin appeared wearing a black jacket and a full-face white mask. He skated with the mask on, executing high-speed spins and jumps. Then, he removed the mask mid-program, symbolically shedding the disguise.
Satoko Miyahara charmed the audience with her lyrical program Lilies of the Valley. She wore a bright orange and yellow dress that radiated summer vibes.
Madison Chock & Evan Bates showcased their 2025 Rhythm Dance Dance Through the Decades, seamlessly blending music and dance styles from across eras. Their energy and chemistry lit up the rink.
Before Elvis Stojko’s program, two “rock fans” with crazy wigs and guitars hyped the crowd. Then Elvis entered with a red leather jacket and mic, delivering an explosive Rock Medley complete with lip-syncing and audience interaction — bringing the concert feel to its peak.
The first act ended with a dance battle, accompanied by a light show. Skaters and audience members waved flashlights and danced together, making for a fun and interactive finale.
A Touching Tribute
In the second half, Elvis Stojko introduced Maxim Naumov, setting the stage for an emotional moment.
Naumov skated to “One Last Breath” by Creed, honoring his parents’ memory with a powerful and moving performance. He surprised the audience by performing a backflip, something he had never done before in a show. This heartfelt performance marked his return to the ice at the club where his family had built much of their skating legacy.
The 2025 Rock Stars on Ice show was deeply moving and surpassed the typical skating performance. With its fast pace, vibrant rock-concert energy, and programs that showcased each skater’s strengths, the night left the audience captivated and inspired. It was a true celebration of music, artistry, and resilience, as well as a reminder of some of the season’s most memorable moments. I’m already looking forward to seeing what Stars on Ice will bring next year.
