Holiday on Ice Welcomes Philippe Candeloro

Holiday on Ice welcomes the great skating champion Philippe Candeloro to the French tour of Tropicana. Mr Candeloro is set to be the ‘rink master' of the show, playing several characters.

Philippe Candeloro (born February 17, 1972) is a French figure skater who medalled at the 1994 and 1998 Winter Olympics.

As a competitive skater, Candeloro was easily recognized by his energetic style and unique choreography. He usually portrayed specific characters on the ice, and constructed his long programmes' music, costumes and choreogaphy around each concept. His most well known long programmes include "Conan", "The Godfather" (1994 Olympics), "Lucky Luke" (1996) and "Napoleon" (1997). In 1998, Candeloro portrayed D'Artagnan from The Three Musketeers. His brilliantly choreographed programme included a mock swordfight with intricate footwork that covered the entire length of the rink.

Professionally, Philippe has created programs depicting Braveheart, George of the Jungle, the Matrix, and a Spanish flamenco dancer.

Candeloro's focus on artistry began early in his career, when he was bothered by the fact that figure skating is often considered a feminine sport and feared ridicule from his friends. Indeed, one of his first programmes involved combat between an Indian and a Cowboy.

The French Tropicana will open in Paris on February 11. It will tour throughout France until May 16 2010.