Where do skaters go during a gala?

[Jiazumi]

Do they stay around and watch or do they go to another room?

[Johnny_Fever]

What's a gala? You mean a show that they're actually a part of? The only person I've ever seen watch other skaters during a show was Shae Lynn Bourne in Champions on Ice.

[Jiazumi]

yes an exhibition but i call it a gala (i dont know why i do).

so i guess the skaters just go backstage.

[FigureSpins]

Yes, there are locker/changing rooms and warmup space for the performers backstage. Skaters really can't leave the backstage area during the show. There's sometimes an on-ice warmup before the audience is allowed to enter the stands, but the skaters need to keep moving and stay warm in order to skate properly during their number(s).

They warm up off-ice backstage while waiting their turn, then sometimes watch the skaters following them perform.
(From the wings/backstage area)

At the end of most shows/galas/exhibitions, the performers come out in skates to either do a group number or take a bow. So, they do have to stay backstage until the show is over.

For a local skating show, there are usually locker rooms, but skaters are more likely to watch from the stands since the backstage area is so small/crowded.