Ice dance is a discipline of figure skating that historically draws from ballroom dancing. Regarded by many as one of the most beautiful sports in the world, it has appeared on numerous Olympic Games.

Recent decisions made by the International Skating Union Ice Dance Technical Committee (IDTC), in charge of the discipline’s rules and regulations, have called to question the credibility and appeal of the sport. In particular, the recent themes chosen for the rhythm dance have caused serious debate about the state of ice dance. 

In the 2023-24 season, the IDTC decided to have a 1980s rhythm dance. A significant number of people deemed this a failure due to the tacky nature of the theme. The greatest burden is on the ice dancers themselves, who are forced to perform a style they cannot connect to.

In the 2024-25 season, the theme was Social Dances of the 1950s, 1960s & 1970s. Many of the programs produced bore a resemblance to the previous season due to overlapping styles. As a result, people continued to voice out frustrations about the themes chosen.

In the 2025-26 season, the rhythm dance is 1990s themed. This bizarre obsession with decades has got to stop. While the IDTC thinks the sport could gain some clout through these themes, in reality, it only serves to entertain a very specific demographic of people. 

A great majority is seeking for a change. Numerous ice dancers, active and retired, have publicly spoken against this plague created by the IDTC. Athletes should be given equal opportunities to showcase different strengths and capabilities.

The integrity of this sport is at stake. Aside from the lack of theme diversity, the controversial erasure of the pattern dance has caused a decline in ice dance credibility. Key points demonstrate skating skills and therefore separate the best from the rest. Without these objective measures, how can ice dance be a credible sport? In what world is it appropriate for sporting judges to give out scores based on subjective vibes? 

A sport rooted in ballroom dancing has not had a proper ballroom dance in years. For example, the last time we saw a waltz was a decade ago in the 2015-16 season. If the IDTC is concerned about the relatability of traditional themes, there are fresh approaches one can take to make it work. For example, a movie-themed waltz would definitely be fascinating and appealing across all age groups.

We, the fans and the viewers, deserve better. Most importantly, the athletes deserve better.