Youth Dance Company Dances “Scenes From The Polar Express”

Saturday, December 11, 2010

GoLocalProv Lifestyle Editor Andrea E. McHugh

Jump!, one of Rhode Island’s most unique youth dance companies, will be presenting its 11th annual production of the dance drama, “Scenes From The Polar Express,” this Saturday and Sunday. Based on the children's book by local author Chris van Allsburg, “Scenes From The Polar Express,” is the perfect holiday event for dance fans and families of all ages.

Twinkle Toes

Dancers range in age from 8 to 18 with JUMP!, undertaking intense training in classic ballet, modern dance and tap. More than just a dance company, Jump! dancers are encouraged to also choreograph from a young age, teaching the how to work with music, group forms, and improvisation to compose sophisticated and truly creative choreography.The process fosters innovative self expression for Rhode Island's creative youth. The pioneering program Has received project support from the Rhode Island Foundation, the State Council for the Arts, and the Arts & Business Council of Rhode Island.

Time-Loved Tale with a Twist

The production tells the heartwarming tale of a Boy awoken on Christmas Eve by a train outside his window. This train, which JUMP! dancers bring to life, takes the boy in a night journey to the North Pole and Santa, and culminates in the presentation of the First Gift of Christmas. The holiday performance includes tapping elves, snowflakes en pointe, salsa-dancing reindeer (we’re betting you’ve never seen that before) and more, all to an eclectic international soundtrack and original songs including “It’s the Night Before a Holiday” by Hunter and Katherine Meckel, and the musical overture “Train” by David Brown.

Making Arts Accessible

“'Polar' has become an audience favorite in Rhode Island,” says Artistic Director Mary Paula Hunter. “Over the years we’ve had such loyal audiences, but we’re still growing and we’re proud to still be the best ticket in town! [It's] so popular with families because it really is a show for everyone—young and old.” In keeping with the company’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible dance for all, show tickets are just $1 for adults and $5 for all youth under the age of 16.

To go: “Scenes From The Polar Express,” takes place Saturday, December 11th at 2 and 6pm, and Sunday, December 12th at 2 pm at Classical High School in Providence. Tickets can be reserved online for all 3 shows at: [email protected] or by calling 529-4391.