The prestigious Class of 1923 Ice Skating Rink at the University of Pennsylvania is set to host a spectacular figure-skating event, American Gold Live, on December 13th at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. This holiday show will feature a lineup of the world’s top figure skaters, including the reigning world champions Ilia Malinin and Alysa Liu, as well as the reigning world silver medalist Isabeau Levito. Further stars are expected to be announced in the lead-up to the event. The show will be hosted by 1988 Olympic champion Brian Boitano.
Ilia Malinin, who is famously known as “the Quad God,” expressed his excitement for the event, noting it will be his first performance at the renowned rink. At just 21 years of age, Malinin has already made waves in the figure skating world with two world championship titles, three U.S. titles, and a groundbreaking achievement of executing the quadruple Axel in competition.
Recently, Malinin made headlines by becoming the first skater to land seven quadruple jumps during a single event at the Grand Prix Final, leading him to another title. His performance not only showcased technical mastery but also set a new world record in the free skate segment at the competition held in Japan.
For his performance in Philadelphia, Malinin plans to bring a self-curated program that allows him to express himself more freely on the ice. Likewise, Alysa Liu, a 2022 Olympian who recently won her second title at the Grand Prix Final, will also seize the opportunity to showcase spins and other elements that are not permitted in competitive settings.
Both skaters emphasized the unique experience of live performances. Malinin articulated that watching skating in person offers a distinct perspective, criticizing how online viewership can diminish the understanding of the sport’s complexities. He hopes that spectators will grasp the difficulty of the maneuvers being executed, aiming to make the sport more accessible and relatable.
Ticket options for American Gold Live are available on the event’s official website. Purchasers can choose from various tiers, including an exclusive on-ice VIP experience and discounted tickets for members of the Penn community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni, ensuring a broad audience can enjoy this elite showcase.
This dazzling holiday event precedes the United States Figure Skating National Championships scheduled from January 4-11, 2026, which will play a crucial role in selecting the team that will represent the United States at the upcoming 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics in February. With the confirmed headliners of American Gold being strong contenders for Olympic team spots, the anticipation surrounding this event is palpable.
