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Stettler’s Alberta Prairie partners with Danceology on Polar Express

Around 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1, there was a hustle at Stettler's railway platform as the Alberta Prairie loaded the last of its...
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Santa Claus greets kids on the first run of the Polar Express on Thursday

Around 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1, there was a hustle at Stettler's railway platform as the Alberta Prairie loaded the last of its passengers on its Polar Express themed journey to the North Pole.

This year, the Alberta Prairie Railway teamed with local dance practice, Rhonda's Danceology to bring to the community the wonders of the season.

"We had our formal auditions way back in October towards the end, with four different dates and an amazing group of children and adults who took part," said Owner and Principal Dancer Rhonda Gillrie. "Performers were given five times each week to come and learn the various dances and the script used within the Polar Express."

Gillrie said that this was the first year that the Alberta Prairie Steam Train (APST) has run the "Polar Express" and it was their first opportunity to participate as well.

"Both APST and myself made a very conscious decision to offer the parts to everyone in the community and not just those who have been with the train or Danceology from before," Gillrie added. "We had to keep a balance."

As the train took off, the atmosphere within was one of enchantment and anticipation as the kids wondered along with the accompanying adults what was to come.

"This is just the first run of the 30-trip excursion that we will be making," said Bob Willis, general manager of Stettler's Alberta Prairie Railway.

Hot chocolate and cookies were served on board and soon the performers came out on the train and were able to bring Christmas to all the kids as they tapped away to the music.

"Because of the number of passengers we encounter on each run, the performers have to be really on their feet to ensure that the 'feel of the train experience' stays true to the script," Gillrie said. "The sound track, script and the production must fit within the confines of Warner Brothers as well as many other governing bodies."

According to Gillrie, it has been a big undertaking and a larger understanding for all of the crew to work together to bring this truly amazing experience to the passengers.

"I'm forever grateful to APST to allow us to be a part of it," Gillrie continued. "So blessed to be able to bring the Christmas spirit to all those on board, give them an hour-and-a-half of believing and forgetting their troubles. It is an awesome feeling."

With the weather conditions getting worse since, Willis said that they are doing everything and adapting a bit to keep the crew as warm as possible, but so far the feedback has been excellent.