The Magic of Art and The Polar Express: Broadway Utica and Oneida County Inspire the Next Generation
Frost clung to the windows as yellow school buses pulled up one after another, delivering over 4,000 students into the heart of an unforgettable experience. This week, Broadway Utica, through its UticaWorx program and in partnership with Oneida County, transformed an ordinary school day into pure magic with a special screening of the beloved film The Polar Express at the historic Stanley Theatre and Rome Capitol Theatre—offering children more than just a movie, but an invitation into a world of wonder.
Inside the theaters, the scene was nothing short of enchanting. Tiny feet shuffled over plush red carpets, eyes widened at grand staircases and glimmering chandeliers. Pajama-clad children, clutching their complimentary popcorn and water, settled into velvet seats, their voices bubbling with excitement.
“We do this to ignite a love for the arts in the younger generation,” said Danielle Padula, Executive Director of Broadway Utica. “It may start with a movie, but that’s just the beginning. This experience helps children feel at home in the theater—taking in the sights, the sounds, and the magic of the space. From there, we nurture their excitement and curiosity, introducing them to live performances that will inspire them for years to come.”
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. echoed this sentiment, adding, “These events foster a love for the arts among our children and strengthen the bonds within our community. We are proud to invest in opportunities that inspire creativity, dreams, and pride in all that Oneida County offers.”
For many students, this wasn’t just a movie; it was a first step into the world of art. Sitting in a historic theater, feeling the energy of an audience, and being swept away by the magic of storytelling were experiences that sparked creativity and curiosity. These moments planted seeds—encouraging dreams, fostering artistic expression, and showcasing the wonders that exist right in their backyard.
The magic wouldn’t have been possible without the help of volunteers. Members of iCAN and MVCC’s program filled the theaters, each helped pass out popcorn, water and ushered each little one to their seat. The dedication and smiles each possessed added an extra layer of warmth and community to the day’s experience, ensuring every child felt welcomed and cared for.
As the lights dimmed and the screen came alive, the air hummed with possibility. Laughter erupted when the conductor shouted, “All aboard!” Cheers rang out as Santa Claus appeared on the screen. And, as the train clattered through snowy mountains, the children clapped in rhythm, their hands becoming the sound of the train itself.
These are the moments that will linger long after the credits rolled—the feeling of being connected to a larger story, of being part of something magical and grand. And for some, it was the beginning of a love affair with the arts, one that will stay with them for a lifetime.
In the words of The Polar Express: “Sometimes, the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.” Whether it’s the jingling of Santa’s bells or the spark of creativity in a child’s heart, Broadway Utica and Oneida County have proven that moments like these can change lives—one student, one story, and one theater seat at a time.
📸: www.mohawkvalleypictures.com
