Castings | THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

The Polar Express is a children’s book written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg that was later adapted into the 2004 Motion Picture featuring Tom Hanks. Our Polar Express Train Ride starts just like the film, where The Polar Express will arrive at the platform to collect guests to take them to the North Pole. Passengers will get to meet the characters from the film including the conductor, the singing chefs, the hobo and of course the main man himself Father Christmas. Families are encouraged to wear PJ’s as they experience the fun-filled theatrical adventure and drink hot chocolate and eat cookies as they make their way to the North Pole. Once at the North Pole, Santa will arrive on board to meet with each guest (young and old) and give them the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell just as he does in the film. We are seeking actors and musical theatre performers for this live, interactive theatrical show. In addition to talent, we are looking for actors who can speak in an American accent, that are team players, who enjoy working with children, have good improvisation skills and who can embrace the interaction between themselves and passengers to create a fun, entertaining and heart-warming experience. All cast members need to be able to: React quickly to changing circumstances, Sing and be able to follow a basic choreography routine. Be 16 years or older (unless stated otherwise) and must be available from the 20th Nov to the 23rd December.

- CASTING -

Conductor

Male character aged between 25-60; the Conductor is strong and stern, he has a task to complete and he can’t be late; this role does include Christmas carol singing and must be able to follow a basic dance routine; the conductor must talk in an American accent, and ideally can grow a moustache.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo, CV

Dancing Chef / Elf

16yrs+ all ethnicities; good all-rounders who can sing, dance and entertain in a tight space; individuals will also be required to clean and serve hot chocolate and cookies during the performance; the chefs must talk in an American accent.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo, CV

Hobo

18+yrs all ethnicities. A ghost individual who can make you question your belief in the big man. Must be a strong actor as they have 2 key monologues within the script. The hobo must talk in an American accent.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo, CV

Santa Claus

Actors applying for Santa Claus must bring a magical performance and have an authentic white beard and hair. He must also bring the jolly appearance and experience for the part. Actor must be customer-service orientated and truly enjoy working with children. Actor must posses a true care and concern for fulfilling the Christmas dream for thousands of children that will visit Santa this year.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo, CV

Hero Boy - "Billy"

7-12 yrs (male-identifying) Must be confident with the public and interaction, Proficient in learning lines and acting and able to adapt quickly using improvisation.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo

Hero Girl - "Holly"

7-12 yrs (female-identifying) Must be confident with the public and interaction, Proficient in learning lines and acting and able to adapt quickly using improvisation. Girl needs to sing confidently. Auditions for vocals will be done separately after initial selection.

Ethnicity: All Ethnicities
Required Media: Headshot/Photo

CASTING APPLICATION

Please complete the below form to apply for casting roles

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I agree to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Telford Steam Railway, the Telford Horsehay Steam Trust and TSRE21 Ltd holding the information submitted to process my audition. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Telford Steam Railway, the Telford Horsehay Steam Trust and TSRE21 Ltd also have my permission to hold details submitted for future events / roles as they become available. I understand I can contact THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Telford Steam Railway, the Telford Horsehay Steam Trust and TSRE21 Ltd at any point to have my personal information removed.

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Audition Details

The first set of auditions will be a group audition, available by invite only. More information about this will be sent out with the invite.

Location Details

Telford Steam Railway, The Old Loco Shed, Bridge Rd, Horsehay, Telford, Shropshire, TF4 3UH