In 1998, Disney and ABC created a one-of-a-kind special called Reflectionson Ice: Michelle Kwan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan. The show first aired on June 16, 1998, and it combined Disney storytelling with Olympic-level artistry.
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
The evening starred Michelle Kwan, world champion figure skater and Olympic medalist. She portrayed Mulan in a series of routines that captured the film’s energy and emotion.
A Night of Skating and Storytelling
The broadcast opened with a dramatic teaser:
“Tonight, a very special television event as World Champion and Olympic medalist Michelle Kwan skates to the epic music of Walt Disney’s newest animated feature, Mulan.”
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
“It’s an evening of spectacular entertainment plus an exclusive look at the movie as stars of the movie and skating world celebrate the adventures of Mulan, the brave young girl who saved her family’s honor.”
This performance wasn’t just about athletic skill. Kwan’s storytelling on ice matched the animated version of Mulan with grace and emotional power.
Supporting Cast and Highlights
Michelle Kwan wasn’t alone. Skating star Michael Weiss performed as Li Shang, adding depth to the live performance. Their duet segments brought new life to the characters.
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Michael Weiss
Clips from the animated movie played between skating scenes. That format kept the audience immersed in the story. Every element—from choreography to costume—reflected the spirit of the original film.
A Historic Disney Special
Directed by Steve Binder, the program became a standout Disney broadcast of the late ’90s. It served as both a preview for the Mulan film and a celebration of the movie’s powerful themes.
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
This special offered something rare: a crossover between film, music, and live performance. It wasn’t just entertainment—it was Disney storytelling elevated through the artistry of figure skating.
Watch the Full Special
Want to relive this unforgettable moment? Watch the full special online. It’s a perfect way to revisit the excitement surrounding Mulan’s release.
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Pat Morita
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Pat Morita
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan BD Wong
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Ming-Na Wen
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Donny Osmond
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Special Guest Appearances from Stars of Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Elizabeth Punsalan and Jerod Swallow
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Michael Weiss
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan Philippe Candeloro
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
Reflections on Ice, Michelle Swan Skates to the Music of Disney’s Mulan
