“We may only have skating to offer. But still, in any way we can, we hope to provide even a small glimmer of hope.” Yuzuru Hanyu about the ice show “Notte Stellata 2025”
Yuzuru Hanyu about the ice show “Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2025.”
original source: Hochi News
The ice show “Yuzuru Hanyu Notte Stellata 2025,” led by professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu (30), premiered on March 7 at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena (Grande 21) in Miyagi. This year marks 14 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake, and Hanyu used this performance to send a message of hope from his hometown of Miyagi. Here’s a translation of his comments posted on Hochi News.
Hanyu opened the third annual show by skating to the titular piece, “Notte Stellata.” After the group opening featuring all the skaters, Hanyu took the microphone on the ice to address the audience. “The words ‘Notte Stellata’ mean ‘starry night.’ On March 11, 2011, the night when so much was lost and broken, I looked up at the night sky, and it was so beautiful. I can’t simply say that those stars gave me hope, but the memory of how beautiful they were remains incredibly meaningful to me,” he shared, continuing:
“They were small, fleeting, and yet they shone. We skaters here today want to shine like those stars, no matter how small or fragile, and perform in a way that makes us a source of light for all of you. There may be moments when you feel lonely or sad, or memories that make you feel pain, but we are here. Whether it be for those no longer with us or for those who are living now, we skate with prayers from the depths of our souls.”
“The closer we get to March 11, the more we encounter painful memories and sad recollections. And now, for those who are currently going through hardships — whether in places like Ofunato, the Noto region, or anywhere else where disasters can strike without warning — we may only have skating to offer. But still, in any way we can, we hope to provide even a small glimmer of hope. Through what we do, we pray that we can help people forget, even just for a moment, the hardships they’ve endured and let them think, ‘That’s beautiful.'”
This year’s show featured a special guest performance by kyogen actor Mansai Nomura. Hanyu showcased his solo piece “Notte Stellata” as well as collaborative performances with Nomura, including “Bolero” and “SEIMEI.”
After the finale, Hanyu took the microphone and addressed the audience.
“Here and now, I think we’ve been able to share so much joy and happiness together. But, of course, there are still those among us, perhaps even some here in this audience, who are going through difficult times. I sincerely hope that even just a little bit, through happy memories like these, those who are struggling right now will be able to share in moments of joy and happiness. I truly wish that this circle of happiness will grow and spread throughout Japan and the world.”
Related topics: Yuzuru Hanyu
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