Interp- no prop?

[Skittl1321]

So I am thinking ahead to adult nationals this year.  If I go, I need to skate two programs, it just isn't worth the money for one.  I don't know what to do for my artistic program.  I did a light entertainment program before, but didn't have a prop.  I think because of that, I didn't place well locally.  Everyone skates with a prop.

If I have strong facial expressions, and a program that goes with the music- do I need a prop to succeed at Nationals (no delusions of placing, my skating sucks- but at least to be well recieved).  Or do I need to just find something I can hold onto and somewhat incorporate into the routine?  (I've generally avoided props because they often do seem to be something that is only held onto, with very little incorporation except that it is thematically appropriate.)

Thanks for the advice!

[jjane45]

I never did interp programs, but skated twice with props in our rink shows, with something twinkly as Harlequin and with a sword as pirate. The prop was there to signify the role, like an extension of the costume I guess. No tricks other than waving it according to choreography. It is difficult to jump and spin and turn with something distracting though, first loop jump with the sword out was a BIG splat.

IMHO, everything else being equal, clever use of props gives a stronger impression. I watched a few interps at the past AN in Bensenville, and really enjoyed the program "UP" with balloons 

[sk8lady]

You do not need a prop to succeed if you have a true interpretive program--however, remember that costume is specifically mentioned as being something that will count in your score. If you use a prop at AN, there should be a point to it--a flag for a sailor, a dagger for Madama Butterfly (although there were THREE of those the year I went, so I wouldn't recommend it), a mock rifle for a patriotic program (the woman had done drill so she was throwing it up in the air and catching it. That was a long time ago, not sure that would go over big nowadays!).

At AN, I used a scarf for my bellydance program and did ok in terms of placement. My bellydance teacher helped me choreograph it so I did a number of things with it that were authentic to bellydance. I've also done a hockey interp with a hockey stick wearing my helmet, hockey socks, boot covers that looked so much like hockey skates that someone asked my coach if I was performing in hockey skates, a jersey, and fake hockey shorts that I made (real hockey shorts are too constricting). I danced with the stick and did a fake slap shot at the end. The judges weren't thrilled but the audience really liked it.

Hope that helps!

[AgnesNitt]

You do not need a prop to succeed if you have a true interpretive program--however, remember that costume is specifically mentioned as being something that will count in your score. If you use a prop at AN, there should be a point to it--a flag for a sailor, a dagger for Madama Butterfly (although there were THREE of those the year I went, so I wouldn't recommend it), a mock rifle for a patriotic program (the woman had done drill so she was throwing it up in the air and catching it. That was a long time ago, not sure that would go over big nowadays!).

At AN, I used a scarf for my bellydance program and did ok in terms of placement. My bellydance teacher helped me choreograph it so I did a number of things with it that were authentic to bellydance. I've also done a hockey interp with a hockey stick wearing my helmet, hockey socks, boot covers that looked so much like hockey skates that someone asked my coach if I was performing in hockey skates, a jersey, and fake hockey shorts that I made (real hockey shorts are too constricting). I danced with the stick and did a fake slap shot at the end. The judges weren't thrilled but the audience really liked it.

Hope that helps!

I was in an ice show group number where I dressed as Death and twirled a hockey stick like a martial arts staff. The only reason it worked is that the blade of the stick was replaced by cardboard and duct tape making it balanced. I swear the next time I do that number I'm going to learn how to toss and catch that thing.

[techskater]

You don't need a prop to do well in interp, but the program has to interpret the music ALL THE TIME. You can't let up from the interpretation of the music if you want the program to be successful.  Clarity of concept is important too...

[jjane45]

I was in an ice show group number where I dressed as Death and twirled a hockey stick like a martial arts staff. <snip> I swear the next time I do that number I'm going to learn how to toss and catch that thing.

Oh no the ice just became even more dangerous!! Flying pucks and flying sticks     :runsaway