Shoma Uno: “I always wanted to get better, even when I was competing. But that desire to improve was often limited by the need to aim for specific scores. The freedom I now feel means there are endless possibilities for what I can do, which is incredibly fulfilling.”
Shoma Uno Expands His Horizons as a Performer and Producer with Ice Brave 2
original source: sportiva.shueisha.co.jp dd November 4th by Komiya Yoshiyuki
Shoma Uno’s ice show Ice Brave 2 captivated audiences in Kyoto, showcasing his artistry and passion as he transitions his career from a competitive skater to a professional performer and producer, embracing the unique freedoms and challenges of this new role. Here’s a translation of his comments posted on Web Sporttiva.
On November 1 in Kyoto, Ice Brave 2, the follow-up to the highly praised Ice Brave, debuted to great acclaim. Produced by Shoma Uno, the show demonstrated the continuous evolution of the two-time World Champion, who is now expanding his reach as an artist.
“Even after stepping away from competitive skating, I’m grateful to have a place where I can showcase what I’ve worked so hard on. Ice shows have a unique kind of pressure, different from competitions. Performing for the audience and showing them how much we enjoy skating creates a special atmosphere,” Uno reflected.
After the group performance, Uno heightened the energy with a solo performance of Gravity. Dressed in a shirt blending shades of purple, pink, and blue – evoking visuals of the cosmos and Earth—he brought the concept of gravity to life.
“Since I performed Gravity during my competitive career, it felt familiar to my body. This time, I took over some elements that Stephane [Lambiel] had performed last time. Those who saw the first Ice Brave will likely watch this show with a fresh perspective. As for the program itself, it didn’t exceed my expectations, but I feel the quality wasn’t bad,” said Uno with characteristic honesty.
“Ice Brave 2, like its predecessor, Ice Brave, is physically demanding,” Uno admitted before adding, “What I’ve always considered my strength, even during my competitive years, is giving everything I have in every moment. I don’t think much about pacing myself – I go all out in everything I do. And if I get tired, I figure it out when I’m tired. That’s just how I’ve always approached things with my own kind of determination.
For instance, we, the cast, count the number of performances we do, but for many fans in the audience, this is the only one they’ll watch. I’m mindful of what we can and can’t show on stage – what’s okay to reveal and what isn’t – especially when we’re feeling tired.”
In an interview following Ice Brave in July, Uno was asked to reflect on how he viewed himself as a professional skater, just one year after retiring from competitive skating.
“Honestly, it feels strange… I’ve heard people say, ‘You train more as a pro than you did as a competitive athlete,’ and now I really understand what that means.
Perhaps it’s because, for the first time, I’ve taken on the major role of being a producer. People often say that becoming a pro gives you more freedom, and that’s exactly how I feel now.
I always wanted to get better, even when I was competing. But that desire to improve was often limited by the need to aim for specific scores. As a professional skater, I can dedicate myself entirely to entertaining the audience. The freedom I now feel means there are endless possibilities for what I can do, which is incredibly fulfilling.”
Related topics: Shoma Uno
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