Sofia Samodelkina: “When you step on the ice with Shae-Lynn Bourne, the magic begins, I swear. Of course, there are many good choreographers, but there’s something special about her.”
Sofia Samodelkina shared her experience working with renowned choreographer Shae-Lynn Bourne, highlighting the creative process, the value of their collaboration, and her aspirations for future programs.
original source: Sports by Maya Bagriantseva
In an interview with Sports correspondent Maya Bagriantseva, Sofia Samodelkina spoke about her collaboration with the famous choreographer Shae-Lynn Bourne. Here’s a translation.
“Q: This year you created your short program with Shae-Lynn Bourne. Why is everyone so eager to work with her?
Sofia Samodelkina: When you step on the ice with her, the magic begins, I swear. Shae-Lynn works in a special aura – it’s her magical space, and you get access to it.
First, her imagination is limitless: she can offer 500 variations of transitions if something feels uncomfortable to you. She’s always inventing and refining things.
Second, if you say you don’t quite understand how to convey a character, she explains everything in detail. Don’t understand by ear? She’ll write it all out so you can translate it later and not miss anything.
You skate together, work through the program, and she adds so many cool touches. Of course, there are many good choreographers, but there’s something special about her – it’s hard to put into words. It’s a completely different level.
Q: Will you create new programs with her as well?
Sofia Samodelkina: Yes, definitely the free skate. I’m flying back to America in early May, and we’ll start working on the choreography.
Q: Is it expensive?
Sofia Samodelkina: Very. I won’t name specific numbers, but it’s definitely worth it.
Q: Does the federation pay for Bourne’s programs?
Sofia Samodelkina: Yes, they helped this season and promised to support me next season too. I was overjoyed when they told me they were willing to pay for work with Bourne. Of course, we discussed it with Rafael Vladimirovich first – he said that if I had a good season, he’d talk to Shae-Lynn. It’s very hard to get a spot with her.
When I explained to the federation why it was so expensive, I promised the program would be amazing. And that’s how it turned out.
I always dreamed of having a “signature” program – like Alena Kostornaia’s “Angel.” That program became her “calling card” and even if I skated to that music now, everyone would immediately say, “Oh, that’s Alena’s program.” I wanted my “Czardas” to be special, for people to remember me in that role.
I’m not sure yet whether to keep this program for next season – it could definitely be refined and perfected. On the other hand, it might be boring to watch the same thing for a second year. There’s also the option to turn it into an exhibition program – the audience always responds warmly to it.
I was a bit disappointed that it didn’t make the ISU Skating Awards longlist. I understand they usually select much more popular athletes – but that’s okay, I’ll have another program like that in the future. I’ll skate something so good that they simply won’t be able to overlook me.”
Related topics: Shae_Lynn Bourne, Sofia Samodelkina
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