Today (23/12) marks the last day of The Polar Express train ride at Birmingham Moor Street Station run by Vintage Trains Tyseley. Hundreds of families have climbed aboard and experienced the magic as the film is brought to life. The event has been available from Thursday to Sunday each week from 29th November to 23rd December. Slots have been at 3pm, 5pm, 6:45pm and 8:30pm on selected days. 

 

The experience is based on the 2004 film and story ‘The Polar Express’ by Chris Van Allsburg. Guests were encouraged to wear their pyjamas just as the children did in the film. After queuing outside of Moor Street Station, guests are taken into a glass cube grotto filled with lights, a Christmas tree and souvenirs to purchase. A boy begins reading The Polar Express book on stage and a clip from the film plays on the screen above. 

 

The conductor’s voice is heard as he walks through the crowd onto the stage to speak to the boy. He then leads everyone onto platform 4 which is festively decorated, with music from the film playing. The conductor takes his position and shouts, “All aboard!”

 

 

Guests would have already received their golden tickets in the post detailing their seat number. When they get on the train, they are greeted by chefs and waiters that escort them to their seats. When the train starts to move, they begin dancing acting out the scenes from the film and serve the guests with a warm mug of hot chocolate and a cookie. They also interact with the guests by telling them jokes and making conversation with them. 

 

 

The train arrives at the North Pole where Santa boards the train and visits all of the children. He presents them with their very own “first gift of Christmas” silver bell and takes a photo with them. 

 

The chefs on board lead the passengers in singing their favourite Christmas songs as the train heads back to Moor Street Station. The performances approximately last an hour. As the passengers depart the train, they are invited to go and see what the elves have created in their workshops and to visit the post room to write and send their letters to Father Christmas. 

 

Amy Steed, mother of three said: “It was an absolutely amazing Christmas experience. My children loved it and the staff were amazing with kids. They were very interactive and spent a lot of time talking to each family. It was well worth the money!” 

 

Director, Christopher Brookes and assistant director, Tom Hendryk studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire and recruited local dancers and actors. The Polar Express had a total of 22 dancers, 5 actors and 3 child performers. 

 

 

Lorien Tear, a chef on board of The Polar Express said: “This has been one of the best jobs I have ever had. I’ve had so much fun, it’s been great seeing all the children so happy and being able to make them laugh. I’m glad that I’ve had the privilege of helping give families a magical experience that they will remember.”

 

Another chef, Naomi Butherway said: “The Polar Express has been phenomenal. It’s been absolutely incredible to be a part of. I have made some happy memories with amazing people that I’ve met along the way. I’m just so sad that it has come to an end.”

   

 

It is obvious that the experience has been enjoyed by staff aswell as guests. The Polar Express train ride will return next year due to its popularity.