Maia Shibutani & Alex Shibutani | Golden Skate

Maia Shibutani & Alex Shibutani

cornell08

Final Flight
Joined
May 10, 2009
U.S. ice dancers Maia Shibutani & Alex Shibutani are a brother-and-sister team. Maia was born on July 20, 1994, in New York City, New York, while Alex was born on April 25, 1991, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Last updated: October 15 2018 by combo

Maia and Alex Shibutani pronounce their names (video by sabinfire):
https://youtu.be/Zk4jOQV4BFs

There have been many posts about how as siblings their music choices are limited but I actually feel like they could use that to venture into music we haven't seen interpreted yet. As they are a team with particularly smart genes I would love to see them create something a bit more intellectual. I would love to see them interpret something from a movement, like Simon & Garfunkel's "the Boxer" or "America". Or even something from Bob Dylan or Joan Baez. Ice dance has traditionally been all about pathos but why shouldn't ethos have a moment in the spotlight as well? Good luck to Alex and Maia this season!

Edit: I'm sure they've already picked and learned both programs but I guess the music part is more what I hope we see from them.


Their ISU bio
http://www.isuresults.com/bios/isufs00011168.htm
ISU bio Wayback machine archive
http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://www.isuresults.com/bios/isufs00011168.htm

Their icenetwork bio:
http://web.icenetwork.com/skaters/team/shibutani_shibutani
Icenetwork bio Wayback machine archive
http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://web.icenetwork.com/skaters/team/shibutani_shibutani

Maia's wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maia_Shibutani
Alex's wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Shibutani

Tracings.net
http://tracings.net/shib-shib.html

Social Media

Maia and Alex are the king and queen of skating social media!!

Facebook Fan page: https://www.facebook.com/Maia.AlexShibutani

Maia's Twitter: http://twitter.com/MaiaShibutani
Alex's Twitter: http://twitter.com/AlexShibutani

Maia's Instagram: http://instagram.com/MaiaShibutani
Alex's Instagram: http://instagram.com/alexshibutani

Maia's Vine: https://vine.co/u/908912538270445568
Alex's Vine: https://vine.co/AlexShibutani

Official website: http://www.maiaandalex.com/

Youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/ShibSibs

Tumblr: http://shibsibs.tumblr.com/

Update December 2016


Personal Best Total Score194.25ISU GP Skate America 2017
Personal Best Score Short Dance79.18ISU GP Skate America 2017
Personal Best Score Free Dance115.26ISU Four Continents Championships 2017


Programs

2017-18

SD Mambo: Mambo No. 5 by Pérez Prado, Cha Cha: Cherry Pink (and Apple Blossom White) by Louiguy performed by Pérez Prado, Samba: Mambo Jambo/Mambo No. 8 by Pérez Prado
FD Paradise by Coldplay

2018 US Nationals SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w8VkoyZ-d3o
2018 US Nationals FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3liLmE9vlU0

2017 Grand Prix Final SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7i3s92NfSs
2017 Grand Prix Final FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K81aOqx2vxs

2017 Skate America SD (All seasons bests set here)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sctkpOlti0Q
2017 Skate America FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9d2nd2_9w0I

2017 Rostelecom Cup SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9sdhh4XPoWE
2017 Rostelecom Cup FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPibMgNZn88

2016-17
SD Blues: That's Life performed by Frank Sinatra, Hip Hop: That's Life (remix) performed by Frank Sinatra, Jay Z; choreo by H. Konishi, P. Tchernyshev, M. Zueva, M. Scali
FD Evolution: Mirror In Mirror by Anne Akiko Meyers, Akira Eguchi; choreo by H. Konishi, P. Tchernyshev, M. Zueva, M. Scali

2017 World Championships SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwDyy56pUzc
2017 World Championships FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_SZJYC1XFU

2017 Four Continents SD (Seasons best FD and overall)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fecIZjAWmow
2017 Four Continents FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEacoA6jz8w

2017 US Nationals SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1cX9bWUxzM
2017 US Nationals FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMd3Ire5Pc8

2016 Grand Prix Final SD (Seasons Best SD)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8H6sP3kSb8Q
2016 Grand Prix Final FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKqDbbb__Hk

2016 Cup of China SD (BESP)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aaWD5UidL0s
2016 Cup of China FD (BESP)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_ZAxkzbV00

2016 Skate America SD (BESP)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3wqAbmc5m8
2016 Skate America FD (BESP)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmLic4KXD08

2015-16
SD Coppelia by Léo Delibes
FD Fix You by Coldplay

All their personal best scores were earned at the 2016 World Championships!! They finally returned to the world podium with a silver medal.

2016 World SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8x--ZESxtoI
2016 World FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEfkTwnhF9c
Medal Ceremony
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17ucpoenMvw

2016 Four Continents SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGAEEm180bQ
2016 Four Continents FD (HD by sabinfire)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fhb323seOkM
Medal Ceremony
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlSGkl5ve8E


They finally win US Nationals!
2016 US Nationals SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hvmyvRMwBI
2016 US Nationals FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ypx4WeFP98
Winners' Interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9h3BFmKOD1s
FD Press Conference
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duTfCZPOjHg

2015 Grand Prix Final SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcQrDxxdSjc
2015 Grand Prix Final FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuURXd60OBM

Their first Grand Prix win since 2011!!
2015 NHK SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B7f2IXQia8s
2015 NHK FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqg1aNDs7hQ

2015 Skate Canada SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef6CaPoF5M4
2015 Skate Canada FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqQoKhdf6Io

2015 Nepela Trophy SD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7um0Fz4tavI
2015 Nepela Trophy FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHaPQin4vwY>

2014-15
SD Flamenco/Paso Doble medley
FD "Rosen aus dem Süden" and "The Blue Danube" by Johann Strauss

Their season's best FD score of 102.72, and their season's best total score of 172.03 were earned here.
2015 Worlds SD British Eurosport
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXMM5NQyP3E
2015 Worlds FD British Eurosport
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoUC-r9qUo4

2015 Four Continents SD. Their season's best SD score of 69.65 occurred here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH9MUM6DPww
2015 Four Continents FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hxATDZX03U

2015 US Championships SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTgarBdClos
2015 US Nationals FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVlu6xVcI8c

2014 GPF SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpJcp9BUY_o
2014 GPF FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iACfyys7868

2014 Cup of China SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhpDlIvkj2Y
2014 Cup of China FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwxV6nEO-8Y

2014 Skate America SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kt7d0Pf45Rs
2014 Skate America FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNFviTGIf4M

2014 Ice Challenge of Graz SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ex8jjmirAbQ
2014 Ice Challenge of Graz FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ES1bWJc8bKE

2014 Nepela Trophy SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nB-PGp8H4Jo
2014 Nepela Trophy FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf-P7y0fJEs

2013-14
SD Michael Bublé medley
FD Michael Jackson medley

2014 Worlds SD British Eurosport (Their season's best total score of 158.57 occurred here)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCHMOjMNPYs
2014 Worlds FD British Eurosport
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=defSgxHGYd0

2014 US Nationals SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfL1DdPI5N0
2014 US.Nationals FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rH5yyq9_Gys

2013 NHK SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqFifvalrJw
2013 NHK FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moWUws0okuA

2013 Skate America SD British Eurosport
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVmB3eY1xuU
2013 Skate America FS British Eurosport
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxTcNNq-8SQ

2012-13
SD "Ojos Azul," "Dolencias" and "Sikureada" by Incantations
FD The Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack by John Williams

2013 Worlds SD Their best 2012-13 score 66.14
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jsAoujiGWM
2013 Worlds FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouImYZxmpbk

2013 Four Continents SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0J-h7Vv5FM
2013 Four Continents FD. Their best 2012-13 FD score of 96.71 points.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHYaeHNMBA8

2013 US Nationals SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQgbIW6zM60
2013 US Nationals FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhRqPAUQjsE

2012 Rostelecom Cup SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOPMSgdyh3s
2012 Rostelecom Cup FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lci9qn6tJs

2012 NHK SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSEk8dPxSG8
2012 NHK FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qlz06t3Opw4

2011-12
SD "Batucada" by DJ Dero, "The Girl From Ipanema" by Olivia, and "Samba de Janeiro" by Bellini (second part of season)
SD Samba: Batuca by DJ Dero; Samba: Skip to the Bip by Club des Belugas; Samba: Jazz Machine by Black Machine (first half of season)
FD Selections from the Sun Valley Serenade soundtrack by Glenn Miller

2012 Worlds SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6KYD_z4VP4
2012 Worlds FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7f2ah3zWc0Y

2012 US Nationals SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfv_ACXZ3JA
2012 US Nationals FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfv_ACXZ3JA

Their season best total score occurred here, 160.55
2011 GPF SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HssyfvqAKi4
2011 GPF FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zov69Gw_NLU

2011 Cup of China SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=whTk4L2EYNY
2011 Cup of China FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xS8WvemwnU

2011 NHK SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZ8XMOqbq2I
2011 NHK FD - No Commentary Universal Sports. They won!!! Great performance!
http://www.youtube.com/#/watch?v=gK-vjgUReAo

2011 Finlandia SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Dw_7rB0gzs
2011 Finlandia FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic50rkx8pb8

2010-11
SD "The Carousel Waltz" by Richard Rodgers
FD Charlie Chaplin's "Smile" performed by Nat King Cole and Irving Berlin's "Let's Face the Music and Dance" performed by Nat King Cole

In their bronze medal performaces here, they achieved their season's best scores, a total of 163.79 points
2011 Worlds SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFh0Excv6QU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdZlWH1U9ME
2011 Worlds FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttaLs7UylIk
2011 Medal Ceremony
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNrABXObKps

2011 Four Continents FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-DO12zKTk0

2011 US Nationals SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VL4colfd-F0
2011 US Nationals FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WObYjSK6aK0

2010 NHK SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFHRuhhK9TA
2010 NHK FD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HN6UYLjq4qw

2010 Skate America SD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWZaQGP42cY
2010 Skate America FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKanG-LdhtQ

2009-10
OD "Itsuka Mata" (Japanese Folk) by Tetsuro Naito, "Ao-ki Kaze" (Japanese Folk) by Ryutaro Kaneko and "Itsuka Mata" (Japanese Folk) by Tetsuro Naito
FD "Tango Rhapsody" by Luis Enriques Bacalov

At 2009 JGP Lake Placid, they earned their season' s best total score, 175.95. No videos currently available.

2009 JGPF OD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5AWRje16MA
2009 JGPF FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stnsbGSvEuw

2008-09
OD Swing dance selections from film scores by composer Paul Englishby
FD Selections from the film Cinema Paradiso composed by Ennio Morricone

2009 Junior Worlds FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1ONEuW7RxE

2008 JGP France FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMoZl6Ft0Ko

2008 JGP Madrid OD. Their season best total scoe, 163.56, was earned at this event.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCFMJwJb8i4
2008 JGP Madrid CD Starlight Waltz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U7KLsqsHuA

2008 LPIDC Junior FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDzfUAp4T6k

2007-08
OD Sakura variations and taiko drums: "Heartbeat"
FD Selections from French cinema scores

They were fourth at US Nationals in their junior debut season
2008 US Nationals Junior CD Viennese Waltz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kG2vgh2W7A
2008 US Nationals Junior OD ....with Maia with a fan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfKdH5q7tKQ
2008 US Nationals Junior FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzIR0VgcWnk

2007 Sectionals Junior CD Cha Cha Congelado
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjipwFkfIt0

2006-07
FD Memoirs of a Geisha by John Williams

They win US Nationals in Novice!
2007 US Nationals European Waltz CD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_27DDIwmDk
2007 US Nationals Novice Paso Doble CD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOwvhu68_SU
2007 US Nationals Novice FD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McxhneBBB44

Baby Pictures!!!

A montage of video clips from Alex and Maia's programs between 2005-2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiC5Dbz4wVc

2005 US Junior Championships Intermediates
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PAlQSaclu4

Competitive History

2018 - Winter Olympics - 3rd
2018 - US Nationals - 2nd
2017 - Grand Prix Final - 3rd
2017 - Skate America - 1st
2017 - Rostelecom Cup - 1st
2017 - World Championships - 2nd
2017 - Four Continents - 2nd
2017 - US Nationals - 1st
2016 - Grand Prix Final - 3rd
2016 - Cup of China - 1st
2016 - Skate America - 1st
2016 - World Championships - 2nd
2016 - Four Continents Championships - 1st
2016 - U.S. Championships - 1st
2015 - Grand Prix Final - 4th
2015 - NHK Trophy - 1st
2015 - Skate Canada - 2nd
2015 - Ondrej Nepela Trophy - 3rd
2015 - World Championships - 5th
2015 - Four Continents Championships - 3rd
2015 - U.S. Championships - 2nd
2014 - Grand Prix Final - 4th
2014 - Ice Challenge - 1st
2014 - Cup of China - 2nd
2014 - Skate America - 2nd
2014 - Ondrej Nepela Trophy - 1st
2014 - World Championships - 6th
2014 - Olympic Winter Games - 9th
2014 - U.S. Championships - 3rd
2013 - NHK Trophy - 3rd
2013 - Skate America - 3rd
2013 - World Championships - 8th
2013 - Four Continents Championships - 4th
2013 - U.S. Championships - 3rd
2012 - NHK Trophy - 3rd
2012 - Rostelecom Cup - 4th
2012 - World Championships - 8th
2012 - Four Continents Championships - 4th
2012 - U.S. Championships - 2nd
2011 - Grand Prix Final - 5th
2011 - NHK Trophy - 1st
2011 - Cup of China - 2nd
2011 - Finlandia Trophy - 2nd
2011 - World Championships - 3rd
2011 - Four Continents Championships - 2nd
2011 - U.S. Championships - 2nd
2010 - Skate America - 3rd
2010 - NHK Trophy - 3rd
2010 - Nebelhorn Trophy - 5th
2010 - World Junior Championships - 4th
2010 - U.S. Championships, Junior - 1st
2009 - Junior Grand Prix Final - 3rd
2009 - Junior Grand Prix (Croatia) - 1st
2009 - Junior Grand Prix (United States) - 1st
2009 - World Junior Championships - 2nd
2009 - U.S. Championships, Junior - 2nd
2008 - Junior Grand Prix Final - 4th
2008 - Junior Grand Prix (Spain) - 2nd
2008 - Junior Grand Prix (France) - 1st
2008 - U.S. Championships, Junior - 4th. link is a pdf file
2008 - Midwestern Sectional, Junior - 3rd
2007 - U.S. Championships, Novice - 1st Link to pdf file
2006 - U.S. Junior Championships, Intermediate 1st
2005 - U.S. Junior Championships, Juvenile - 2nd
2007 - Midwestern Sectional, Novice - 1st
2006 - North American Challenge Skate, Novice - 2nd
2006 - Southwestern Regional, Intermediate - 1st
2005 - North Atlantic Regional, Juvenile - 1st

Exhibitions

2016 Cup of China Gala - "Do You Remember" by Jarryd James
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgMvsHBlUps

2016 Skate America Gala - "Do You Remember" by Jarryd James
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlTvsHhqcUI

2016 Worlds Gala - Clair de Lune by Debussy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqYXaP9YYvw

2016 Four Continents Gala - Clair de Lune by Debussy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlFEh4QDSjA

2016 US Nationals Gala - Clair de Lune by Debussy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDpMMtxO7Q8

2015 NHK Gala Au Clair de Lune by Debussy, Fix You by Cold Play
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCx3r28TW0U

2015 Skate Canada EX Au Clair de Lune by Debussy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1a1RcnHtqCU

2015 Denis Ten's show at Almaty - Clair de lune by Debussy . Not the best definition but it looks lovely.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=976gTlaMx4U

2015 US Nationals EX O (Fly On) by Coldplay
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FReX83934kg

2014 GPF Gala O (Fly On) by Coldplay
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fO9Hffi9dFM

2014 Cup of China EX O (Fly On) by Coldplay
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PC3TNT9yZ-8

2014 Skate America- O (Fly On) by Coldplay
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eycHYqpoe4

2014 Worlds Gala I Lived by One Republic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_cgKiofAbQ

2013 Four Continents EX. Anything You Can Do, I Can Better. This is a favorite of mine!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwQ53YHuADU

2012 NHK EX Lost by Michael Bublé
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6ZtNzHQPB4

2011 Evening With Champions EX The Prayer by Charlotte Church, Josh Groban
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcjVI4JOG1w

2011 Evening With Champions Finale EX
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ6cAyYwCcI

2011 Cup of China EX The Prayer by Charlotte Church, Josh Groban
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3Jwx7Z9kLg

2011 Detroit Skating Club Show The Prayer by Charlotte Church, Josh Groban
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ciz1X7pgnl4

2011 World Championships Gala The Prayer by Charlotte Church, Josh Groban
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcIflveeymA

2011 Four Continents Gala La Vie En Rose
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRBVx4ehlMo

2010 Skate America Gala La Vie En Rose
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25bw5SDVsEA

2010 Nebelhorn Gala La Vie En Rose
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoDuDpyn51U

2010 Junior Worlds Gala La Vie En Rose
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MvVyDJ8M8A

2008 JGP France EX Japanese Koto Music
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmSHRinOr0s


Golden Skate articles and threads

Nov. 2016 - Shibutani and Shibutani take second Grand Prix gold of the season at CoC

Oct. 2016 - Shibutanis shine at Skate America, win gold

March 2016 - "Papadakis and Cizeron defend World title" by Ted Flett
http://www.goldenskate.com/2016/04/2016-worlds-fd/

March 2016 - "Papadakis and Cizeron lead ice dancers in Boston" by Ted Flett

http://www.goldenskate.com/2016/03/2016-worlds-sd

Feb. 2016 - USA's Shibutanis win first major international.title by Tatjana Flade
http://www.goldenskate.com/2016/02/4ccs-dance/

Jan. 2016 - Shibutanis capture US National title by Paula Slater
http://www.goldenskate.com/2016/01/shibs/

ARTICLE October 2014 Shibutanis push new boundaries
http://www.goldenskate.com/2014/10/maia-shibutani-alex-shibutani/

April 2014 Hawaye k- Baker vs Shibutani - Shibutani vs Hubbell - Donohue
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/sh...ker-vs-Shibutani-Shibutani-vs-Hubbell-Donohue

November 2013 Maia and Alex Shibutani interview on social media
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/sh...-and-Alex-Shibutani-interview-on-social-media

September 2013 Lysacek, Shibutani and Shibutani Withdraw from 2013 U.S. International Classic
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/sh...-Withdraw-from-2013-U-S-International-Classic

Jan 2013 "Davis and White win fifth consecutive national title in Omaha" Maia and Alex win bronze
http://www.goldenskate.com/2013/01/davis-and-white-win-fifth-consecutive-national-title-in-omaha/

November 2011"Davis and White dominate at 2012 NHK Trophy" Maia and Alex win bronze
http://www.goldenskate.com/2012/11/davis-and-white-dominate-at-nhk-trophy/

September 2012 Shibutani blooper video
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/showthread.php?37953-Shibutani-blooper-video

Jan 2012 "Davis and White take fourth consecutive title at U.S. Nationals" Maia and Alex win silver
http://www.goldenskate.com/2012/01/davis-and-white-take-fourth-consecutive-title-at-u-s-nationals/
Jan 2012 "Davis and White lead in ice dance at U.S. Nationals"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2012/01/davis-and-white-lead-ice-dance-at-u-s-nationals/

ARTICLE Nov 2011 Shibutani and Shibutani capture ice dance gold at NHK Trophy
http://www.goldenskate.com/2011/11/nhk-free-dance/
Article Nov 2011 "Ilinykh and Katsalapov grab lead in short dance at NHK Trophy" Maia and Alex third in SD
http://www.goldenskate.com/2011/11/ilinykh-and-katsalapov-grab-lead-in-short-dance-at-nhk-trophy/

Article Nov 2011 "Bobrova and Soloviev golden at Cup of China" Maia and Alex earn silver
http://www.goldenskate.com/2011/11/bobrova-and-soloviev-golden-at-cup-of-china/

October 2011 The Shibutani article on ESPN
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/showthread.php?35118-The-Shibutani-article-on-ESPN

April 2011 "Davis and White Capture World Title" Maia and Alex nab bronze
http://www.goldenskate.com/2011/04/davis-and-white-capture-world-title/

March 2011Will the Shibutani's Get A Top 6 Finish in World Debut
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/sh...Shibutani-s-Get-A-Top-6-Finish-in-World-Debut

February 2011 Who Fell in love with the Shibutani's (fan thread)
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/sh...ell-in-love-with-the-Shibutani-s-(fan-thread)

May 2010 Alex Shibutani
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/showthread.php?32255-Alex-Shibutani

ARTICLE June 2010 Shibutanis make move to the big leagues
http://www.goldenskate.com/2010/06/shibutanis-make-move-to-the-big-leagues/

Article Jan. 2010 "Shibutanis win in Spokane – Again"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2010/01/shibutanis-win-in-spokane-again/
Article Jan 2010 "Shibutanis increase lead in strong field of dancers"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2010/01/shibutanis-increase-lead-in-strong-field-of-dancers/
Article Jan 2010 "Shibutanis tango to the lead"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2010/01/shibutanis-tango-to-the-lead/

Article Nov 2009 "2009-10 ISU Junior Grand Prix Final of Figure Skating Preview"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2009/11/2009-10-isu-junior-grand-prix-final-of-figure-skating/

November 2008 Maia & Alex Shibutani Article
http://www.goldenskate.com/forum/showthread.php?26003-Maia-amp-Alex-Shibutani-Article

Article Jan 2007. "2007 US Figure Skating Championships: Ice Dance Highlights"
http://www.goldenskate.com/2007/01/...e-skating-championships-ice-dance-highlights/


Articles and Other Media

2008 Shibutanis Thriving in Canton, Michigan
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081222&content_id=57965&vkey=ice _news

2009 Alex and Maia are interviewed at Lake Placid IDC
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5PiF6ZRi6Q

2011 Skating Friends Support Japan After the Earthquake
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZqC7Z7il9c

2011 Interview after they won the bronze medal at Worlds
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhD4a5pYQ8I

2011 Worlds Press conference
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlQ274hI9Po

2011 Interview After the Short Dance at Worlds
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ly_7GPSjpUI

2011 Video- The Shibutanis Discuss Their Short Dance at Champs Camp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T906SQ_Tys

2011 ESPN article Alex and Maia Shibutani Make Ice Dancing Family Business
http://espn.go.com/espnw/news-comme...ia-shibutani-make-ice-dancing-family-business

2012 ESPN Shibutanis Try Ice Dancing With the Stars
http://espn.go.com/espnw/news-comme...ating-ice-dancing-dwts-shibutanis-making-work

2014 "Lifts elevate Chock, Bates to gold over Shibutanis-U.S. ice dance teams place one-two at Grand Prix event for first time ever"
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2014/10/26/99647722/lifts-elevate-chock-bates-to-gold-over-shibutanis

2014 "Team USA wins three disciplines at Ice Challenge-Miller rallies to take ladies title; Razzano wins gold; Shibutanis top dance"
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2014...-usa-wins-three-disciplines-at-ice-challenege

2014 "Shibutanis taking it easy during holiday season"
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2014/12/25/104697994/shibutanis-taking-it-easy-during-holiday-season

2015 "Chock, Bates ring in new era with ice dance gold-Shibutanis second; " 2015 US Nationals
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2015/01/24/107387360/chock-bates-ring-in-new-era-with-ice-dance-gold

2015 "Chock, Bates take slight lead over Shibutanis" 2015 US Nationals
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2015/01/23/107315954/chock-bates-take-slight-lead-over-shibutanis

2015 "Shpilband believes gold within Chock, Bates' reach-Shibutanis ride momentum from Four Continents"
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2015/03/24/114632090/shpilband-believes-gold-within-chock-bates-reach

Feb. 2016 -Shibutanis ride 'Fix You' free to Four Continents title;

Feb. 2016 - -Shibutanis set pace behind flawless short dance

Feb. 2016 - Shibutanis grow into role as top U.S. dance team

Jan. 2016 -Gold at last! Shibutanis claim first U.S. dance title;

Jan. 2016- Minnesota morsels: Arutunian sounds off on jumps; Dance teams get outside help

Jan. 2016 -Chock, Bates edge out Shibutanis to take slim lead in short dance at US Nationals 2016

Jan. 2016 - Chock, Bates attempt to hold off surging Shibutanis; US Nationals dance preview

March 2016 -Channel 4 interview
http://www.clickondetroit.com/sports/brother-sister-ice-dancing-duo-competing-in-world-championships

Mar. 2016 - Shibutanis seek to reap rewards of long journey
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2016/03/29/169633746/shibutanis-seek-to-reap-rewards-of-long-journey

Icenetwork article March 2016 - Boston dance party: Which free dances stand out?
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2016/...nces-stand-out

Mar. 2016 - French open title defense with personal-best short
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2016...h-open-title-defense-with-personal-best-short

April 2016 - World-record free dance helps French retain crown
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2016...d-record-free-dance-helps-french-retain-crown

Apr. 2016 - Brennan: Alex, Maia Shibutani endure long wait for world silver medals

May 2016 - Shibutanis reinvent themselves with 'Fix You' free
http://web.icenetwork.com/news/2016/05/04/176162032/shibutanis-reinvent-themselves-with-fix-you-free

Oct. 2016 - Sterling Shibutanis win first Skate America title

Oct. 2016 -Shibutanis soar with mash-up of Sinatra, Jay-Z in 2016 Skate America SD


Nov. 2016 - Chan narrowly edges Jin for title at Cup of China - Shibutanis Win 2016 Cup of China

Nov. 2016 - Jin vaults past Samohin, Chan to lead in Beijing - Shibutanis Lead After SD at 2016 Cup of China
 
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blue dog

Trixie Schuba's biggest fan!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 16, 2006
I wanted to start a thread for Alex and Maia's upcoming (hopefully rebound) season. There have been many posts about how as siblings their music choices are limited but I actually feel like they could use that to venture into music we haven't seen interpreted yet. As they are a team with particularly smart genes I would love to see them create something a bit more intellectual. I would love to see them interpret something from a movement, like Simon & Garfunkel's "the Boxer" or "America". Or even something from Bob Dylan or Joan Baez. Ice dance has traditionally been all about pathos but why shouldn't ethos have a moment in the spotlight as well? Good luck to Alex and Maia this season!

Edit: I'm sure they've already picked and learned both programs but I guess the music part is more what I hope we see from them.

I know it's overdone in singles, but perhaps they can interpret "Rhapsody in Bleu" by Gershwin.
 

DianaSelene

Medalist
Joined
Aug 2, 2011
I do not think Gershwin would be a smart move. It will be along the same lines as their programs from the last two seasons- redoing the same thing over and over again. Sun Valley Serenade was from the 1940s, Smile from the 30s, and Rhapsody in Blue is from the 20s. They need something new, not music from the beginning of the 20th century for three whole seasons.
 
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ice coverage

avatar credit: @miyan5605
Record Breaker
Joined
Feb 27, 2012
From the Shibutanis' Facebook page today:
"We are excited to announce that we will be performing in the Saturday Night Ice Show in Lake Placid, New York on June 23rd, 2012 at 7:30 pm. Hope to see some of you there!"
 

skateluvr

Record Breaker
Joined
Oct 23, 2011
I have no suggestions on music but I love this couple. TheirWC bronze in 2010 (or was it 2011) made be so happy because I thought how classicly they danced, and that I was watching pure skating at it's highest level. My taste apparently was in accord with Ms Bezic who said "Ice dancing-skating-doesn't get much better than this." I wish them well, and while it seems it would take a retirement to get out from under the top two Canton teams, a royal shakeup would be fun. I don't think they are limited, as there is a world of music to choose from that does not have a romantic or sexual theme. Nice thread for a gorgeous team.
 

Mrs. P

Uno, Dos, twizzle!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 27, 2009
I wanted to start a thread for Alex and Maia's upcoming (hopefully rebound) season. There have been many posts about how as siblings their music choices are limited but I actually feel like they could use that to venture into music we haven't seen interpreted yet. As they are a team with particularly smart genes I would love to see them create something a bit more intellectual. I would love to see them interpret something from a movement, like Simon & Garfunkel's "the Boxer" or "America". Or even something from Bob Dylan or Joan Baez. Ice dance has traditionally been all about pathos but why shouldn't ethos have a moment in the spotlight as well? Good luck to Alex and Maia this season!

Edit: I'm sure they've already picked and learned both programs but I guess the music part is more what I hope we see from them.

Well, it's pretty well-documented that I'm a major Shibs fan, but it's not without merit. I find it interesting that they have disappeared from all prospects of medaling or even being the top 5 ever again because of their subpar finish at Worlds. I wouldn't count them out so easily. As I've said in past threads, I think they will bounce back because they are a hard working team. That work ethic has been instilled in them since they were kids — Johnny Weir noted during their National ex that he remembers them putting in extra rink time in NYC when they were at the juvenile and intermediate level.

All things considered, this wasn't a terrible season for them. They won their first GP, got a silver medal in their second one and got into the GPF. They won their second silver medal at National quite easily. The down times, unfortunately came at the big events — 4CC and Worlds. And knowing what we know now about S/Z, I can't help but wonder if somehow the tensions affected their training (along with Alex getting sick at 4CC?)

Anyway, I'm hoping for a better season from them and that they prove their critics wrong. I do agree that they will probably need to veer away from the jazz standards they've done in the last two seasons. I really liked their Cinema Paradiso program from the 2008-2009 season — I think something like that would be wonderful.

They are a fun-loving pair with a great sense of humor, it would be cool if they did a program that reflected that. I put something out there--how about Blues Brothers? Of course that would require Maia to cross-dress a bit, but hey wouldn't that help break the meme that everyone keeps putting on them?
 

cornell08

Final Flight
Joined
May 10, 2009
Blues Brothers would be fun if Maia cross dressed but its probably still too close to the jazz pieces they've done these couple seasons. I'm more of a folk rock fan-- there's just such a rich variety to choose from, I'm honestly surprised skaters haven't really delved into that genre.
 

Redstone

Rinkside
Joined
Dec 12, 2011
I wouldn't count them out so easily. As I've said in past threads, I think they will bounce back because they are a hard working team.
Though I always admire the hard work of skaters I'd like to point out that it's not all. And Sh/Sh had a lot they need to improve to get on Worlds podium again that has nothing to with how much time they spend on the ice. They need other programs - something that is not "cute little youthful dance". i.e. something less cutesy. And they need other facial expressions on the ice except "sunny smiles".
That's being said I generally doesn't find the concept of the siblings ice teams appealing and Shibs are no exception.
 

mskater93

Record Breaker
Joined
Oct 22, 2005
So you are saying you are biased against them, Redstone?

As for the Shibs, if they can get their technical level back to where it was before Alex was sick at 4CC (their levels were low at 4C and Worlds and they made errors at Worlds probably because their training time was affected), I would never count them out.
 

noskates

Record Breaker
Joined
Jun 11, 2012
I think the Shibs are awesome - albeit still young! I hope they stay together and keep maturing in their skating. It doesn't bother me at all to watch siblings skate together but I do agree with Redstone about the "cute little youthful dance!" I would like to see them skate to something serious and mature. Maia is a beautiful young woman and Alex is a handsome young man. Whatever their music is this year I hope it reflects beauty and maturity. I certainly haven't given up on them and look forward to seeing them compete this year.
 

KKonas

Medalist
Joined
Oct 31, 2009
So you are saying you are biased against them, Redstone?

As for the Shibs, if they can get their technical level back to where it was before Alex was sick at 4CC (their levels were low at 4C and Worlds and they made errors at Worlds probably because their training time was affected), I would never count them out.

I spoke to their parents at 4Cs and they told me how hard the kids worked on their SD - sometimes until midnight. That extra work plus school obviously affected their performances at 4Cs since it was shortly after the US Nationals and Alex got sick. BTW Alex never mentioned that he was feeling poorly. They probably have the quietest blades in skating today, so I am sure they can stage a "comeback" this season. I agree that they need to stay away from the Gershwin tunes for awhile. I like classical for them this season. Not sure they are ready to go "out of the choreo box" yet as I think they need to reestablish their great technical skills.
 

blue dog

Trixie Schuba's biggest fan!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 16, 2006
Since they're fun-loving, perhaps they could do something silly yet technical--along the lines of the Addams Family.
 

100yen

You can't explain witchcraft
Medalist
Joined
Jan 8, 2009
From the Shibutanis' Facebook page today:
"We are excited to announce that we will be performing in the Saturday Night Ice Show in Lake Placid, New York on June 23rd, 2012 at 7:30 pm. Hope to see some of you there!"

It's so exciting that this summer they are getting so many show offers! Even more experience getting out there and performing...and it's like they are really being recognized on a wider scale. I can't wait to see them at THE ICE especially in July, what a treat for them and us fans :)
 

Mrs. P

Uno, Dos, twizzle!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 27, 2009
It's so exciting that this summer they are getting so many show offers! Even more experience getting out there and performing...and it's like they are really being recognized on a wider scale. I can't wait to see them at THE ICE especially in July, what a treat for them and us fans :)

That's an interesting point 100yen.

I think the Shibs are to Ice Dance what Rachael Flatt is to ladies. Both seem to garner a lot of haters on figure skating boards (though I would say the Shibs don't get as much grief as Rach does), but when you look outside those boards, it's clear that both have a solid fan base and respect from the industry as a whole. I think the fact they get invited to shows is indicative of this.


Though I always admire the hard work of skaters I'd like to point out that it's not all. And Sh/Sh had a lot they need to improve to get on Worlds podium again that has nothing to with how much time they spend on the ice. They need other programs - something that is not "cute little youthful dance". i.e. something less cutesy. And they need other facial expressions on the ice except "sunny smiles".
That's being said I generally doesn't find the concept of the siblings ice teams appealing and Shibs are no exception.

Of course work ethic isn't the be-all-end-all. But it will be a factor to their future success. Who says that they haven't heard this feedback regarding programs? They reworked the SD all season long because of negative feedback from judges -- as KKonas points out they worked late hours to do so. How many times have we talked on these boards about skaters who have all the talent — and great programs — to only be hampered by a lack of work ethic? I think the Shibs are in a much easier position to improve because of a solid work ethic.
 
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Redstone

Rinkside
Joined
Dec 12, 2011
So you are saying you are biased against them, Redstone?
Not against them personally, of course. They both seem like very nice kids. And Alex has a good sense of humour too.
It's just that in the most cases the sibling teams don't show really interesting progrms and a wids range of emotions. Despite the fact that woman-man relationships aren't limited to romantic feels only such teams are so terrified of provoking "ewwws" with what they show that they express no emotions at all or stick to something very vague (the last being the point for Shibs). As blue dog said doing something like Addams Family instead of the usual positive "sunshine and puppies" programs would only benefit them.


Of course work ethic isn't the be-all-end-all. But it will be a factor to their future success. Who says that they haven't heard this feedback regarding programs? They reworked the SD all season long because of negative feedback from judges -- as KKonas points out they worked late hours to do so. How many times have we talked on these boards about skaters who have all the talent — and great programs — to only be hampered by a lack of work ethic? I think the Shibs are in a much easier position to improve because of a solid work ethic.
And how many of really hard-working teams would be forever in 4th? Or getting on the podium only if the rivals fai?
Their determination to improve their SD deserves respect but, don't take it is an offence, it hasn't done them much good judging with the WC and 4CC results (it was not a bad season per se, but somewhat underwhelming).
 

Mrs. P

Uno, Dos, twizzle!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 27, 2009
And how many of really hard-working teams would be forever in 4th? Or getting on the podium only if the rivals fai?
Their determination to improve their SD deserves respect but, don't take it is an offence, it hasn't done them much good judging with the WC and 4CC results (it was not a bad season per se, but somewhat underwhelming).

As others pointed out, there have been a number of other factors that have contributed to their 4CC and WC failures, namely Alex being sick causing a disruption to their training time. The Shibs were not at full-force at either event. Quite frankly, what we have is that they peaked at GPF, while comparable teams all peaked at Worlds.

But even accounting for those failures, their senior career has decent stats:
4/5 medal rate at GP events (Average placement: 2.8)
1/2 medal rate at Worlds (Average placement: 5.5)
1/2 medal rate at 4CC (Average placement: 3)

Compare that to I/K, who has been on the senior scene for the exact same time:
2/4 medal rate at GP events (Average 3.5)
0/2 medal rate at Worlds (Average 6)
1/2 medal rate At Euros (Average 3.5)

Also in face-to-face matchup at the senior level the Shibs have beat I/K 3-1.

Yes, the team faces challenges and I will say that if they don't show range, it will be a hard road for them, but I don't see any reason why people are so sure they are headed towards failure.

I acknowledge that their bronze, was a fluke of sorts given the errors made by P/B at that Worlds. I also think that in the short-term the Shibs will likely be 5th or 6th at best with D/W, V/M, P/B and W/P still competing. But I see most of these teams gone after Sochi. So unless you consider 2-3 years forever, I think the Shibs, in the long-term, should not be counted out for a podium finish.
 
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cornell08

Final Flight
Joined
May 10, 2009
Yes, the team faces challenges and I will say that if they don't show range, it will be a hard road for them, but I don't see any reason why people are so sure they are headed towards failure.

I don't know that people are sure the Shibs are headed towards failure...I think for the most part there is simply a desire to see something new.
 

Mrs. P

Uno, Dos, twizzle!
Record Breaker
Joined
Dec 27, 2009
I don't know that people are sure the Shibs are headed towards failure...I think for the most part there is simply a desire to see something new.

There are naysayers who have pretty much have considered them a non-factor for future seasons because of a number of reasons — their perceived one-noteness and the sibling factor among them.

I will admit that I fall on the exact opposite end — I am a fan who is optimistic of their long-term prospects. But I have my reasons, which I have outlined in numerous posts on these boards.

Here's another thing to consider---the Shibs have competed for all of two seasons. I think there's a perception they have peaked because of the 2011 Worlds bronze, but as I said, I do feel that bronze was a bit before their time because of circumstances with their competitors.

Anyway, sorry if I've hijaked this thread---I'll make an effort to get more music suggestions.
 
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