Evansville Expects Big Impact From Theatre on Ice

The Ford Center is the home of the Evansville Thunderbolts.

A competitive ice skating event is expected to bring thousands of visitors and millions of dollars to Evansville. The Evansville Sports Corp. and the Greater Evansville Figure Skating Club have secured the 2017 National Theatre On Ice Competition, which officials estimate could have a $3.5 million economic impact on the area.

The event and practices will take place from June 21-25 at The Ford Center and Swonder Ice Arena. It is expected to draw more than 4,500 visitors booking over 5,500 hotel rooms.

Sports Corp. Executive Director Jason Sands says "we are extremely honored that US Figure Skating has chosen Evansville as the host for this prestigious event and we are excited about the opportunity to show their participants, families and officials how our community pulls together to host spectacular events."

The sport combines figure skating with theater and dance. Athletes use music and costumes as part of choreographed competitions judged by U.S. Figure Skating Officials.

The Evansville Convention and Visitors Bureau says the Sports Corp., Figure Skating Club, River City Ice Theatre Team and Swonder teamed up with other local organizations to win out in a competitive bidding process. U.S. Figure Skating Theatre On Ice National Vice Chair Lauren Whittaker says "Evansville had an impressive bid highlighting excellent facilities. We are excited to be working with them and have no doubt they’ll put on a great 2017 National Theatre On Ice competition."

You can connect to more about the event by clicking here.