The Bell-A Dance Adaptation of "The Polar Express" November 4, 2011

There’s a new holiday show in town that dance and theater fans won’t want to miss.

Palm Beach Garden’s new Dance Theater of Florida, which recently took up residence as part of the Florida School for Dance Education in the old Loehmann’s Plaza, will be putting on an exciting holiday performance of The Bell – an adaptation of The Polar Express, at the Eissey Theater, Nov. 4th & 5th at 7pm.

When asked why the break from the Nutcracker tradition, Michele Zehner, the Director of Dance Theater of Florida said, “Florida School for Dance Education is about bringing a brand new approach to professional dance training so we thought a fresh production for the company would be more in keeping with our vision.”

The story tracks the adventures of a young boy having a hard time believing in Santa Claus. He joins a group of other children on a wild train ride to the North Pole in what is ultimately a journey of self-discovery and finding the true meaning behind the holidays.

The performance is approximately one hour and thirty minutes long including a fifteen minute intermission.

To the delight of local ballet fans, this production will feature special guest Jerry Opdenaker in the role of the train’s Conductor. Mr. Opdenaker was formally with Ballet Florida and now directs his own company, O Dance.

The production is yet another collaboration between Michele Zehner and Maria Konrad, who is assistant director of the school and associated company. The two have paired up in the past to create such amazing productions as The Mixed Nut and Mary Poppins.

“It’s sweet and it’s fun,” said Zehner. “I think this show is not only a great vehicle for our dancers to perform in, but a fantastic way to introduce the beauty and power of dance to younger audiences.”

The Dance Theater of Florida presents The Bell – an adaptation of The Polar Express at the Eissey Theater on Friday, Nov. 4th and Saturday, Nov. 5th at 7:00pm. Tickets range from $15-$18 and are available by calling 561-627-9078.