PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — While you may be prepping your turkey and sides, massive crews are out prepping to bring in the holiday magic for the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade.
“The dancers are excited and were working really hard,” said Bernard Gaddis of the Contemporary West Dance Theater of Philadelphia. “And we’re excited to be out there with all the Philly people and celebrate Thanksgiving.”
With less than 48 hours until “go time,” it’s time to get to work for the hundreds of people behind the scenes. Due to the inclement weather on Tuesday night, dancers utilized a Center City hotel ballroom to perfect their performance.
“It’s been a slight adjustment to come inside, but it’s actually great for our dancers and singers; they can hear us, and it’s a controlled environment. We’re not cold, so it’s actually kind of a blessing,” said creative producer Chally Rowjohn.
This is Kami Freman’s third year performing at the parade.
“What I’m looking forward to most is the finale. I really enjoy the music, the song, everything,” said Freman.
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Holiday Magic Professional Dancers were also hard at work.
“There are a lot of moving parts that go into this parade. We start rehearsals three or four days before the parade. We learn five or six routines. It is a big ordeal. It is a bit process, but it is really fun,” said dancer Ryan Skrocki.
The Parkway is being prepped and polished for the holiday fun.
“We just keep adding, and adding, and adding,” said associate producer Mike McGraw. “We have a lot of new balloons this year.”
“We’ve got Daniel Tiger,” said Rowjohn. “He’s our drum major. He’s the first balloon in the parade. We’ve got Ray from Good Morning America.”
This is John Best’s 27th year as parade producer, but somehow he continues to keep things fresh with additions like new balloons and more performances than ever!
“They get bigger and better every year, and this year, the 106 marching, it’s going to be incredible. We’re thrilled to bring it to the nation,” he said.
Coverage of the 6abc Dunkin’ Thanksgiving Day Parade begins at 8:30 a.m.
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