The V&T Railway Commission in partnership with the historic Virginia-Truckee Railroad and Rail Events, Inc. (Warner Bros. Inc. Consumer Products) are holding a casting call for their annual production of The Polar Express Train Ride as we bring this beloved and inspirational story to life aboard the historic V&T Railroad for the 2025 season.

We are looking for upbeat, energetic actors, actresses and singers to fill the following roles of: Lead Steward-Age 15+, Steward/Waiter 13+, Steward/Chef/Elf 13+ Conductors-Age 18+, Hobos – Age 18+, Hero Boy-Age 8 to 12, and Santa Age 45+ (Real Bearded Preferred). Prior acting and singing experience is not required but is a plus. All performers will be required to have the ability to do simple dance movements and perform at a high level of energy and excitement.

This 25-night event is attended by over 17,000 passengers annually. Performances begin Thursday, Nov. 13 and run through Tuesday, Dec. 23. There are three performances each night at 5:00pm, 6:30pm, and 8:00pm. Performers are being asked to identify their availability for a minimum of 18 nights for the event. All performers are considered sub-contractors and are paid a flat nightly rate for each night they perform. Rate of pay is based on the role the performer portrays in the production each night. Those cast in the role of Santa will be required to obtain a background check.

Rehearsals will be held on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings beginning Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, and will run through Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. All rehearsals will be held at the Eastgate Siding Depot, 4650 Eastgate Siding Road, Carson City. All performers are required to attend a minimum of two rehearsals each week. Exceptions can be made but must be approved by the Director one week in advance of the absence.

Those interested in being a part of this energetic and magical show will have three chances to attend the casting call being held in Carson City at the Eastgate Siding Depot, 4650 Eastgate Siding Road, Carson City, Nev. Auditions will be held from 6:30pm to 9:00pm each night on Thursday, Sept. 4; Friday, Sept. 5; and Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025.

Performers only need to attend one date of this casting call but must stay for the entire 2 ½ hours on the date they attend. If you are under the age of 18, you must have a parent/guardian attend the entire audition time with you.

At auditions you will be asked to demonstrate your ability to move, sing Christmas carols from the production, and do cold readings from the script. To have a casting packet and audition sides sent to you electronically so you may complete it prior to arriving at the casting call, submit your request by email at polarexpressdirector@gmail.com. If you are auditioning for the role of Hobo, it is preferred you memorize the audition side to perform at auditions. For more information about the casting call or the production please contact Carla Wilson, Production Director at the same email.

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