“From the choreography stage, I had a feeling this was going to become something truly amazing.” Yuma Kagiyama on his free program to “Turandot”
Yuma Kagiyama’s “Turandot”: A Bold New Take for the Olympic Season
original source: news.yahoo.co.jp dd. October 3, 2025 by Satoko Sawada
Yuma Kagiyama shared his excitement and vision for his new free skate program, “Turandot,” ahead of the 2025-26 season, culminating in the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. Here’s a translation of his comments.
The program features a unique arrangement of the classic opera, specially adapted by Christopher Tin, and promises to be a striking blend of artistry, technique, and emotional resonance.
Speaking about the program, Kagiyama expressed his enthusiasm:
“From the choreography stage, I had a feeling this was going to become something truly amazing,” he shared. “The soundtrack we’re using right now isn’t even the final version, so it has the potential to become even better. Honestly, I can’t imagine how it might evolve, but even during practice, it’s been such an enjoyable experience to skate to this music.”
Kagiyama made these comments during a press conference on October 1, held for Japan’s national team candidates for the 2025-26 figure skating season. In a post-conference interview, he elaborated on his feelings about the program:
“Through the summer competitions and Challenger Series events, the atmosphere on the ice and the cheers from the audience have created a great synergy. They’ve really brought out the program’s full potential and revealed new layers of its beauty. I’ve received so much positive feedback both in Japan and internationally, and it makes me incredibly happy.”
When asked if the arrangement was still being adjusted, Kagiyama confirmed: “Yes.” He added with a smile, “Apparently, the tenor’s main melody is still going to be included. Even as it is now, just hearing the music moves me – it’s truly incredible.”
While Kagiyama anticipates the final version of the soundtrack to be ready around the beginning of the Grand Prix Series, the exact timing remains uncertain. “Once we actually compete and test the acoustics and sound reflections in the arena, we’ll need to make fine adjustments. I think it will be an ongoing process of trial and error to get closer and closer to the final version,” he explained.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the final version of the music, Kagiyama is fully committed to his program, viewing it as a cornerstone of his Olympic pursuit. “I really have no idea what the final version will be like, but the energy in the live orchestra’s performance is absolutely incredible. I want my skating to be just as powerful and delicate so that it can stand up to the magnitude of the music,” he said.
Related topics: Yuma Kagiyama
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