In an echo of the Prancer film’s advertising back in 1989, “Something magical is about to happen” in Three Oaks. Come be a part of it!
Fans of the classic holiday film Prancer will have a chance to celebrate the 35th anniversary of its release at ‘PrancerPalooza,’ with a series of special screenings and festive events in Three Oaks on Saturday, December 14, and in LaPorte on Sunday, December 15th.
Prancer, filmed on location in both Three Oaks and LaPorte, will be celebrated with activities that honor the film’s legacy. Director John Hancock, members of the film’s cast, and community members will come together to mark the milestone. Cast members Rebecca Harrell Tickell (who played Jessica Riggs), Rutanya Alda (Sarah, Jessica’s aunt), and Mark Rolston (Herb Drier) will make appearances and, along with Director Hancock, will share their memories from the set.
Although initial plans included an appearance by Prancer star Sam Elliott, unfortunately
Elliott is no longer able to attend the event due to an unexpected professional commitment.
Despite this change, the team behind the event remains dedicated to delivering a magical experience that celebrates the film’s message of community and connection. Director John Hancock, who brought Prancer to life, reflects on the enduring appeal of the film:
“I can’t wait to see friends and families come together in this beautiful region,” Hancock says. “It’s an ideal place to capture the beauty of life, and the people who call it home know this to be true. Prancer embodies the Christmas spirit. It’s not about flying reindeer or presents, but the presence of those we love and those we will. The heart of this story lives in the people who keep it alive, and I’m honored to celebrate with them.”
On Saturday, December 14, planned events in Three Oaks include:
— Screenings of the movie, followed by Q & A with cast and crew, at 10 AM, 1 PM, and 6 PM (Eastern Standard Time) at the Vickers Theatre (6 N. Elm).
— A parade featuring Prancer cast and crew and other festive holiday units will proceed down Elm Street at 4 PM.
— The scale model of Three Oaks used in the movie’s final scene as well as other artifacts from the 1989 filming of Prancer will be on display at Three Oaks Heritage Hall (8 E. Linden) from 10 AM to 6 PM.
— A festive holiday photo opportunity featuring a life-sized (plastic) reindeer will be located outside Drier’s Meat Market (14 S. Elm). Christmas trees will also be available for purchase at that site.
— Fliers mapping out a self-guided tour of Prancer filming sites will be available online and at area businesses, for those who want to check out parts of the area featured in the heartwarming reindeer-rescue story.
— A Walk of Fame will be set up along Elm Street, paying tribute to those who helped create cinematic holiday magic in the village in 1989, including late cast members Cloris Leachman, Abe Vigoda, and Michael Constantine.
— Merchants throughout Three Oaks will offer special bargains, hot drinks, and other treats throughout the day. Three Oaks restaurants will offer a great variety of food and beverage, with food trucks also situated around town to provide fast and tasty bites.
— Strolling carolers will provide delightful musical accompaniment to this festive scene.
On Sunday, December 15, the LaPorte Civic Auditorium will welcome up to 1,500 guests for a large-scale screening. This event will feature Santa Claus and opportunities to support local charitable organizations such as the Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and the Food Pantry.
For information on ticket availability for Prancer screenings, visit vickerstheatre.com or www.laportecivicauditorium.com.
For the latest on other PrancerPalooza events, visit www.regionofthreeoaksmuseum.com
