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Starlight Express Introduces New Train Character 'Ticktack'

Producers say the Glacier Express–inspired character is meant to refresh the long-running Bochum show and draw fresh public attention.

Overview

  • Starlight Express unveiled a new train character named Ticktack in Bochum on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, and the production planned to feature the character in its evening performance that day.
  • The production describes Ticktack as elegant, self-confident and calm and says the design was explicitly inspired by Switzerland’s Glacier Express panoramic train.
  • Swiss entertainer Beatrice Egli was announced as Ticktack’s official godmother and praised the character for representing the Glacier Express’s scenic appeal.
  • Managing director Jürgen Marx framed the addition as part of the show’s ongoing creative renewal, saying change and innovation are part of Starlight Express’s DNA.
  • The announcement was distributed via the dpa news channel and republished by regional outlets, and reports made no mention of operational or touring changes to the nearly 40-year Bochum production.