Callie Rice – ice dancer – A2 English Reading Test

Callie Rice – ice dancer

Growing up, I was in an ice-skating club, and my friends and I did lots of competitions. When I was 18, I entered a big one in Italy, and I came first. The prize was a job as an ice dancer in a big show. That’s how my career started.

One of the things I love about the shows is the beautiful clothes. The only trouble is that sometimes they’re heavy and I get very hot. Also, I have to change lots of times in one show. The people who make the clothes are very clever – it’s amazing how quickly they work!

Before the show starts, we get dressed, put our skates on, and wish each other good luck. Then, while I’m waiting to go on, I like to sit quietly by myself and think about what I’m going to do. The other skaters chat together or listen to music.

In the shows, we have to dance, sing, and also speak. For me, ice dancing is fine, but I’m not an actor. I’m always a bit scared I won’t remember the words. I’m not bothered about falling – it doesn’t usually happen. And I really enjoy joining in with all the songs.

People always ask me if I’m tired when each show finishes, but I love skating, so I never feel that way. I love listening to the people who came to watch – so excited as they leave, talking about what they’ve seen. That’s when I’m really happy I chose ice dancing as a career.

1   How did Callie’s career as an ice danger begin?

      A   She won a competition.

      B   She saw an advert for a job.

      C   A friend invited her to join an ice show.

2   What does Callie say about the clothes she wears?

      A   Some are prettier than others.

      B   It’s hard to skate in them.

      C   Making them takes a long time.

3   What does Callie do just before each show?

      A   She talks to the other skaters.

      B   She checks her skates are okay.

      C   She takes a moment to be alone.

4   What does Callie worry about?

      A   having an accident on the ice

      B   forgetting what she has to say

      C   dancing and singing at the same time

5   How does Callie usually feel after a show?

      A   ready for a rest

      B   glad that she’s finished

      C   pleased about making people happy