TalentPlus Youth Entertainment Work Permit

Missouri Youth Entertainment Work Permit Process

To have your child participate in TalentPlus bookings and events, Missouri law requires a childrens entertainment work permit for all youth under 16-years-old. Part of this process includes a question on the form asking if you request to waive certain hour limitations outlined in the Child Labor Law. It's important to check YES to this waiver so your child can fully participate in the event, which might involve hours outside of standard limits for child performers. The prefilled out link has the proper agency information filled out for parents.

LINK: TalentPlus Missouri Department of Labor Youth Entertainment Work Permit

Here's what you need to do:

1. Complete the Form: Fill out the work permit form and make sure to mark YES to request the waiver for hour limitations.
2. Attach a Copy of the Birth Certificate: You'll need to include a copy of your child's birth certificate.
3. Send It: Email the completed form and a copy of your kiddo's birth certificate to LaborStandards@labor.mo.gov
4. The Missouri Department of Labor will email our agency and the parent the completed entertainment work permit that will be good for one year. The signed form will be password protected so only the agency and the parent will have access to their signed form. The turnaround time for processing a work permit is usually 48 hours.

This permit needs to be updated each year until your child turns 16-years-old if they plan to continue participating in TalentPlus events and projects.

READ MORE: Missouri Department of Labor Youth Work Permit Process

Work permits are required for youth under the age of 16 who work in the entertainment industry. A child under 16 may work in the entertainment industry if the director of the Missouri Division of Labor Standards issues the work permit. A work permit generally can be received within 48 hours.  For a detailed account of Missouri’s Child Labor Law, please contact the Division of Labor Standards at (573) 751-3403, or go to labor.mo.gov/DLS/YouthEmployment/.

Polar Express Train Ride Characters: Explore the Iconic Roles

Meet the Characters of the Polar Express: A Magical Journey Awaits!

Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of the Polar Express Train Ride, introducing you to the beloved characters that bring this timeless holiday tale to life. Discover the unique traits and heartwarming stories of each character that make the Polar Express a magical experience for all ages. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with wonder, adventure, and holiday spirit!

We are looking for actors to portray the iconic Polar Express roles live at Union Station and on the train cars. It is important that each actor truly embodies their role and stays in character at all times during the event.

Please note that actors will not be booked for every Polar Express date, however, we are seeking actors with open availability of the entire run. 

POLAR EXPRESS CHARACTER ROLES

Train Conductor: Male or Female: Age range 30ish +, any ethnicity. The train conductor performs a 5 minute speech and serves as a golden ticket taker onboard the Polar Express train ride. Conductor greets the passengers as the board the train car and participates in the Christmas carol and holiday song sing-a-longs.

Chefs: Male or Female, 16-years-old and up, any ethnicity. The performer must be very lively and energetic. The chef will perform on the train only. Shows the Polar Express book while the pre-recorded version is played. Performs a short dance to the Hot Chocolate Song (no structured choreography). Chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies to the passengers on board the train. They lead passengers in the singing of Christmas carols and holiday songs on the way to and back from the North Pole. Chefs then clean up after the passengers depart and getting the train car ready for the next ride. Each train car has two to three chefs.

Hobo: Male or Female, 25-years-old and up, any ethnicity. The hobo is the emcee of the event as he holds the microphone and entertains the awaiting passengers at the depot tent before boarding the train. He leads the groups in fun games as they wait to board like 'Santa Says' and 'I Spy'. Hobo dismisses each train car and interacts with the crowds inside the depot tent while they are waiting for their upcoming trip to the north pole. This character has a BIG personality, we are looking for an outgoing and energetic entertainer that can keep the crowd joyful and excited as they wait to board.

Elves: Male or Female, 16-years-old to 25-years-old, any ethnicity. The elves are cheerful and acquire high energy. Some of the elves will be located at the train depot tent to mingle and assist guests in family picture taking and some elves will assist Santa on the train car passing out the first gift of Christmas, a silver bell. The elves guide each group of passengers from the train depot tent to their designated train car.

READ: How To Submit For The Polar Express Train Ride at Union Station

 

Apply Now To Work On The Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station!

All Aboard! Exciting Job Opportunities on the 2025 Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station

Are you ready to embark on a magical journey the 2025 holiday season? The Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station is casting for the best of the best talent to bring this enchanting experience to life. We are looking for Elves, Chefs, Conductors and Hobos to join our team. If you have a passion for performing and love spreading holiday cheer, we want to hear from you!

EVENT DETAILS

• Call Time: 2:30 PM
• Pay
• 3 Train Ride Days: $125 per day
• 4 Train Ride Days: $150 per day

DATES & ROLES NEEDED

• 11/19  Chefs
• 11/20 Chefs
• 11/24 Chefs
• 12/2  Chefs
• 12/3  Chefs 
• 12/4  Chefs 
• 12/5  Chefs
• 12/9  Chefs
• 12/10 Chefs
• 12/11 Chefs
• 12/24 Chefs

READ MORE: Get To Know The Polar Express Characters

HOW TO APPLY

Please send us your current photo, include your resume and a video audition to our Polar Express submission Dropbox.

1. Current Photo: Send us a photo that shows what you look like now.
2. Resume: Include your height, weight, and current clothing sizes on your resume.
3. Video Introduction: Shoot a brief video (no longer than 60 seconds) introducing yourself. Show us your personality, enthusiasm and show us your very merry and festive character in a short video audition – no need to be a pro singer, just bring on the holiday magic! Whether you're an elf, conductor, chef, hobo, or hero, your joy and spirit matter most! Capture your character's essence, sing, dance, or spread holiday joy in the video.

SUBMISSION PROCESS

• Step 1: Gather your application materials (your photo, resume, and video).
• Step 2: Submit your application to our Polar Express (PEX) Submission DropBox here. Include your email address and phone number in the submission.
• Step 3: Talent under 18-years-old need to include their parent or guardian's email and phone number when applying.
• Step 3: If our team is interested in contracting you for the event, you will receive an availability form within two weeks of your submission.

WHY JOIN US?

Working on the Polar Express Train Ride is a unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories for families and children. You'll be part of a talented team, bringing the magic of the holiday season to life. Plus, you'll enjoy the chance to work in a fun and festive environment.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Submit your application today and become part of the magic on the Polar Express Train Ride at St. Louis Union Station.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ROLES?

The Polar Express "PEX" event character breakdown is located here. Learn more about the role you are auditioning for.

If you have questions you can reach us at polarexpress@talent-plus.com 

ABOUT THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE

The Polar Express Train Ride is an immersive, family-friendly experience based on the beloved book and film. Guests are taken on a magical journey to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate, Christmas carols, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. This heartwarming event brings the spirit of the holiday season to life and creates lasting memories for all who attend.

Polar Express Train Ride Character Breakdown

We look forward to seeing your submissions and can't wait to create a magical holiday season together!

CONTACT US

polarexpress@talent-plus.com