Ice Princess Returns
A Disney On Ice skater from returns to roots in Connecticut
By KYLE REYES
Updated 11:32 AM EDT, Wed, Jan 7, 2009
Ashley Wong is excited because Disney on Ice is in Connecticut this weekend.
Not only is she going to see it - she's also a star in it.
Ashley, 24, who graduated from Simsbury High School in 2002, she said she couldn't be happier to be home.
"It really does feel good to be back in Connecticut," she said. "It's good to see old friends and coaches who I consider to be family. I've missed everybody."
Ashley is originally from Green Bay, Wis.. She moved to Simsbury to train at the International Skating Center when she was 16. Her move, and subsequent role in Disney On Ice presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey, is a dream come true. She plays the role of Nala.
"I'd always wanted to be a skater," she said. "This whole thing has been a remarkable experience."
An experience that's brought her not just across the country, but also across the world.
"It's been such a learning experience. I never thought I'd love traveling as much as I loved it. I thought I'd be able to do one tour and tour the country. My country count is somewhere around 30. I just grew this passion for traveling the more I was able to see."
But at the end of the day, there's no place like home.
"My parents and my siblings are back home in Wisconsin. Most of my time off is spent back home at family. I'm still in college -- I'm a biology major," she said. "I definitely miss my family, so I make a point to spend a good amount of time with them. And, of course, I have plenty of ways that everyone can reach me. I'm calling home every day and every other day."
Ashley is excited to keep growing as a dancer and performer, but said she's still pursuing her degree because she knows her energy won't last forever.
"I'm 24 now. With the show, there've been so many opportunities to progress with my performing. But this isn't something I can do in my 50s and 60s. I'm going to enjoy it while I have it."
Ashley said she'll continue to enjoy her time not just on the road, but also back here in Connecticut. And she said it's a way you and your family can go on a vacation to Disney - without leaving the state.
"I think the show's really a great time for friends and family to come down and check it out. It's a family show, it's something for everybody. It's a flight to Disney that's really not going to cost you a fortune."
First Published: Jan 6, 2009 9:57 AM EDT
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