I think there is scope to raise the bar on these night shoots, and make use of much more sophisticated and atmospheric lighting, rather than just one or two arc lights at essentially ground level.
The national Railway Museum at York run a hugely popular ‘Locos in a different light; event every year. Take a look on Google images for a sample.
( Unfortunately there was also a group of photographers who triggered the fire alarm, clearing the building of crowds , to facilitate uncluttered shots )
Certainly something to build on for the next events and hopefully we get a dry evening next time.