“At first, we really struggled, and there was even a time when both of us fell headfirst on the ice. It was an extremely difficult challenge.” Shoma Uno and Marin Honda debuted a new ice dance program at the “Ice Brave2” choreographed by Jean-Luc Baker
Shoma Uno and Marin Honda debuted a challenging new ice dance program at the “Ice Brave2” show, with Uno expressing his motivation to pursue authentic ice dance and continue growing as a performer.
original source: Nikkansports 30th January 2026 by Wataru Matsumoto
On the January 30th, the ice show “Ice Brave2,” produced by Shoma Uno, opened at KOSE Shin-Yokohama Skate Center. In the first show, Uno performed the ice dance “Four Seasons” with Marin Honda for the first time. Here’s a translation of Shoma Uno’s comments.
The choreography was created by former U.S. representative Jean-Luc Baker, who came to Japan for the show. Misato Komatsubara, a member of Japan’s Beijing 2022 Olympic team silver medalists, served as Baker’s interpreter and assistant during his visit.
The program began with a highlight where Uno lifted Honda, and Uno reflected, “At first, we really struggled, and there was even a time when both of us fell headfirst on the ice. It was an extremely difficult challenge. That’s why I was so moved that we were able to present it to everyone, and I think it’s a rare experience to perform with such tension in a show setting,” he said with relief.
Why is Uno so motivated to pursue ice dance? Uno carefully explained his thoughts:
“In my skating career, I’ve gradually learned to do things one by one, combining them to become the best in the world. Whatever I do from now on, being able to do ice dance, and the various movements I’ve learned through different programs in Ice Brave, will definitely be something I can draw on in the future. I think both Marin and I will continue skating as we go through life. The more we can do, the more it will benefit us. When we perform in shows like this, I think it’s very important for us to set the bar as high as possible. Rather than just being ‘a collaboration between two singles skaters,’ we deliberately want to approach it as ‘ice dance.’ We need to change our mindset to aim for performances that are recognized as true ice dance. Our motivation is to deliver genuine ice dance.”
Related topics: Marin Honda, Shoma Uno
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