Visually impaired kids experience Disney on Ice

ASHWAUBENON - It was a flurry of excitement, as six youngsters got to experience the magic of Disney on Ice at the Resch Center.

"Did Mickey put them on there?" asked one child pointing at some musical instruments.

"Yes, Mickey has a band," replied one of the Disney on Ice skaters.

But seeing is what these children have trouble with. They're all visually impaired. So they did it by touch.

"If you guys want to kneel here you can touch the ice. See how cold the ice is," the ice skater explained.

The skaters, cast and crew of the show shared a unique experience with the children.

"This is how Minnie Mouse opens the castle," one cast member explained as the kids watched in awe.

They got a chance to get up close, and feel the actual props used in the show.

"That's the glass slipper!" exclaimed Gordon Wilson of Green Bay. "Can I feel the bottom?" he asked.

Then a variety of Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, made a special appearance.

"Quack, quack," said one child who spotted Donald Duck.

Those who teach visually impaired students say this experience offers a rare opportunity.

"Otherwise they miss everything, they don't get to feel and get the tactual experience to know what those costumes feel like, what the characters look like," said Gina Sarge, who hosted the group.

And the kids all had their favorites.

"Actually the princess!" said Gordon Wilson. "The princess," echoed his twin brother Braeden.

"The lion," said Ross Ducat of Ashwaubenon.

"Minnie and Mickey!" exclaimed Bryce Sumner of Newberg.

A once in a lifetime opportunity these children will keep in their hearts forever.

"Why is it so cool to feel them?" FOX 11 asked Sumner. "Because they feel nice!" he replied.

"Pretty unforgettable?" we asked. "Yeah," said Sumner.

The children at the event received a voucher so they could attend the Disney show free.

Disney on Ice is running at the Resch Center all weekend.