Photo by Michelle V. Agins of The New York Times
Last week, New York City companies were required to list salary ranges in their job descriptions. The New York Times had fun and made a quiz.
I took it.
And guess what?
The first question pertains to the hourly rate of Macy’s elves. I guessed correctly.
Hmmm.
Give it a go.
Hint. Aim low.
Photo by Kevin Hagen, Wall Street Journal, December 2019
My Mrs. Claus status is on my day-job resume. It’s a small reference. You have to squint to find it. But it’s there. Sometimes, employers stumble on my Santa side hustle. Conversations are delightful. Workers with alter egos are awesome. Here’s why:
Costuming allows you to imagine a different life for yourself. Instead of using phrases like, “When I am this age, I will … ,” a Santa speaks in the present with language that is true now.
Monday morning gives you secret rock star status. While co-workers drag themselves out of bed, you radiate from the weekend’s festivities.
Your daily wardrobe is out of Central Casting. Superman wore briefs over tights, a human resources nightmare. But Clark Kent sported thick-rimmed glasses and character-driven jackets that had a style all their own.
You have a backstory. During meetings, you reflect on it and smile.
You see possibilities where others don’t, while never leaving the office. That means you might be the person to dance at the water cooler.
The American Cyclopædia, 1879, v. 12, p. 379.
Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop, is considered the patron saint of New Amsterdam, what would later become New York City.
In the 1600s, the Dutch West India Company had a goal: profit.
Yet colonists also had a fascination with Saint Nicholas, also known as Sinterklaas. Based on a historically real person who died on December 6, Sinterklaas came to represent children … and … all sorts of wayward sinners, including sailors, merchants, thieves, beer makers, single people, and students.
Could you not ask for a more appropriate saint for the area?
In Knickerbocker's History of New York, published on December 6, 1809, author Washington Irving further developed Saint Nicholas as a character unique to the city’s earliest days.
Sinterklaas Festival Day is still celebrated in the Hudson Valley, a playground for other Irving characters, including Ichabod Crane and Rip Van Winkle.
Today in New York City, St. Nicholas is represented as Santa Claus, a rosy-cheeked harbinger of joy. Even hardened New Yorkers get sappy at the sight of a corner Kringle.
And St. Nicholas’ roots here are deep. Santa’s origins include commercialism, politics, religion, true altruism, and, well, commercialism.
Did you enjoy watching the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center? Well, a site on 48th and Fifth Avenue was once home to St. Nicholas Collegiate Reformed Protestant Dutch Church. The sale of the church made way for the Sinclair Oil Company, a property within Rockefeller Center.
Before the church was torn down in 1949, it housed the oldest congregation in Manhattan dating back to 1628.
Theodore Roosevelt went to church there.
Today, Collegiate Reformed Protestant Dutch Church is the oldest corporation in the United States. Its 1696 charter dates back to English rulers William and Mary.
I am a licensed NYC tour guide and the founding president of the New York City Santas. I am a history nerd who can give interesting onsite or online Santa history tours.
Related Article: NYC Santas Visit the Desk of Clement Clarke Moore Virtually
I am also Scrappy the Elf as well as Mrs. Claus.
On my first day of work as an elf at a secret department store, that rhymes with “oomingdales,” a family of three came into the sixth floor Santaland.
The mother and father had an infant in a stroller. They oohed and ahhhed at their little one’s expressions of amazement.
“I don’t know why we’re so into this,” they told me. “We’re Jewish.”
I took them aside and said, “Little secret here. So is Santa.”
Santa wished them a Happy Hanukkah and they left thrilled.
In New York City, Santa is a symbol of non-denominational joy.
Tomorrow is Monday, December 6. At sundown, Hanukkah, a minor Jewish holiday, ends in its eighth day.
Happy Hanukkah to everyone!
My Mrs. Claus suit and the Winzer Cleaner wrappings.
I’m proud of two things in particular in this photo: my custom-made Mrs. Claus suit and the wrapper from Winzer Cleaners.
My outfit is now three seasons old. It needed some mild tailoring on the skirt and petticoat. And the jacket had never been cleaned because I had no idea how to go about that. I spent too much money for a local cleaner to ruin it.
So I took it to Ernest Winzer Cleaners in Morris Heights, Bronx. Ten miles from Times Square, Winzer is the go-to cleaner for Broadway shows. In fact, this third-generation mom and pop won a Tony for Excellence in 2018. Read this great New York Post story about Winzers’ Tony.
Or watch this video of co-owners Bruce and Sarah Barish here and try not to cry. “We’re not a normal family,” the Bruce said in his Tony acceptance speech. “We don’t take vacations.”
When I arrived at Winzer, Sarah gave me a recommendation. She preferred my green petticoat to the reddish velvet skirt. Hmmm. I’m listening, Sarah.
I showed her where I wanted the skirts taken in. Two employees came forward asking questions and making efficient notes.
The huge room behind them was as alive as Santa’s workshop with workers ironing, stitching, and doing all sorts of things I don’t understand. In September, before Broadway opened, I saw all sorts of complicated garments hanging on conveyer belt lines.
My jacket would be expensive to clean because staff would either have to remove decorative buttons and appliques or clean the jacket by hand. I suggested they clean the jacket by hand and then to wait another three seasons before getting another cleaning.
Later that week, she called. My garment was done. When I entered the shop, I gasped when I saw a long, long flamenco costume that seemed to float in the air like a bride in a Chagall painting. Sarah motioned for me to come into the office. My suit hung on a hook by the windows.
“Merry Christmas!” exclaimed Bruce, whose desk was around a corner. I never saw his face but I correctly guessed that he was the grandson of Al, an earlier owner. As Sarah finalized my purchase, I examined all the autographed celebrity photos that hung in the office. Everyone from James Earl Jones to the New York City Ballet had had dealings with Winzer.
I was really, really impressed.
Here is what Bruce says on his LinkedIn profile page:
“My family has been dry cleaning for Broadway and the public since 1908. If it ran on Broadway, we dry cleaned it. Chances are if your family is from NYC, we dry cleaned for your family as well.”
Ever since I got my outfit back, I have been trying to get a Q & A interview with Bruce. I thought the New York City Santas would love to hear what he had to say. Plus, I’m super nosy. But Bruce and I keep missing each other on the phone. As this is the busiest time of year for him, my gift is me not calling him. Instead, I’ll just thank him and Sarah for taking such good care of my suit.
It’s not just any outfit, after all.
In a way, it’s the face I present to the world. So in taking care of my clothes, they took care of me.
Related Article: A Broadway Dresser Attacks Sweat, A Hot Topic for Santas of the North Pole
Thank you to Santas from all across the United States who participated in the NYC Santas second annual reading of “A Visit From St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke Moore.
And if you’d like to learn more about this poem, read more about the NYC Santas speaking with a curator from the New-York Historical Society in 2020. Have you ever heard of the neighborhood of Chelsea in Manhattan? That was the name of Clement Clarke Moore’s estate that later made up the famous section of the city.
Finally, welcome our newest NYC Santas officer, Bonnie Patrick-Mattalian, who is our Social Media Coordinator. We still need to fill the Membership Coordinator role this year. If you have a few extra hours every month and would like to welcome new members into our organization, please send an email to nycsantas@gmail.com.
We hope you have a wonderful season!
Kathryn Rohe
Kathryn Rohe is a costume design professor at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind. A long-time dresser for Broadway’s Lion King and Mama Mia!, she knows so much about the little things. Here she is with her little Nalas and little Simbas:
Kathryn Rohe worked with the children in Broadway’s Lion King.
On Monday, May 3, she presented “Never Bunch Up Again” for the NYC Santas. Click here to watch. While the Santas enjoyed learning about the components of a perfect pair of pants, they took notes when Kathryn mentioned sweat.
For Santas, overheating is a hot topic. And having dealt with Julie Taymor’s massive costumes in the Lion King, Kathryn knows a thing or two about keeping actors cool and clean. Here is a principal dresser for the Lion King.
This Broadway dresser tends to the performer throughout the show to make sure she is comfortable and able to function when she can’t use her hands.
Ice packs come in two forms: the kind you break and the kind your freeze. The kind you break are single use. The kind you freeze are reusable. Experiment with sewing pockets into your cotton undershirt. Two pockets can hold ice packs around the front ribs. One pocket can hold an ice pack in the back.
Hand-held fans are great during extremely hot events. Kathryn shared backstage photos of Lion King actors finding relief with mini fans.
Here are some of Kathryn’s other tips to treat smells and stains:
Bacteria causes odors in fabric, a no no for Santas. Kill germs by spraying a solution of one part cheap vodka and one part water onto a sweaty garment. Don’t douse but cover a large area. Let the garment air dry. Febreze is fine too, but Kathryn prefers non-scented and non-synthetic products to prevent buildup and allergic reactions. End Bac can be dangerous if used in a poorly ventilated area, but it’s good for shoes.
Wear a white 100% cotton T-shirt under your Claus clothing. If you wear a wicking shirt, your sweat may go into your expensive one-of-a-kind Santa suit, exactly where you do not want it to go. But test out both fabrics and decide what works for you. People in the Middle Ages wore heavy garments on top and cotton chemises underneath to protect their clothing.
Dress shields or “pit pads” are your underarm friends. Try products like Kleinert’s Disposable Dress Shields. Kathryn has made her own sweat barriers by cutting up umbrellas to make layers between costumes and an actor who was a “profuse sweater.” You can add snaps to these “shields” to snap them on and off the costume for easier cleaning. Wash these guards in a laundry bag to keep them from getting lost in the washer.
Underarm ventilation may work. An eyelet or invisible hole in the underarm seam might be a great cooling system. Kathryn thought of this during the conversation. Talk to your tailor.
Treat makeup stains right away. Products include Fels-Naptha soap, baby wipes, and hair spray.
Find a good dry cleaner that understands costuming. For New Yorkers, Winzer Dry Cleaning has a reputation for handling specialty theatrical garments. But you can ask around and find a business that really cares about your expensive clothing. When it comes to white furry cuffs, consider detachable pieces that can be cleaned separately to avoid the dreaded “pinks” so common in the Santa world.
“If it does not come with a Santa guarantee,” Kathryn said in the talk, “it cannot be any good.”
Related Article: How to Gift Your Claus Clothing
Related Article: Does Your Dry Cleaner Have a Tony? Mine Does
Monday, May 3, 6 - 7 PM Eastern Standard Time: “Costuming 101 with a Behind-the-Scenes Dresser on Broadway” Here’s the link.
Kathryn Rohe is a costume designer at Ball State University in Muncie, Ind. A long-time dresser for Broadway’s Lion King and Mama Mia!, she knows how quality garments contribute to an actor’s character. Costumes can also lead to problems, like overheating and bunching up. Have a question about one of your problematic Santa pieces, from wigs to coats? Send a photo to nycsantas@gmail.com. During our interview and Q&A, Kathryn can come to the rescue.
Side note: She has also helped with costumes on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Ever heard of it?
Past meetings:
Louise Cornetta
“Less is more,” says Louise Cornetta, a program director at ESPN, where she specializes in podcasts dedicated to sports. She spoke to the New York City Santas on April 5, 2021 in a virtual session called “Podcasting Dos and Don’ts.”
For Santas wanting to produce their own radio-style shows, like the Santa Cast Podcast, Louise recommends keeping programs short and conversational. Fans tend to leave a program after the hour mark, so if you only have 20 minutes of an interview, use it. Your audience will appreciate your brevity.
Also, “it isn’t enough just to be a Santa,” she says. You have to stand out from the millions of other shareable audible programs by having an angle and a personal connection to the audience. ESPN’s Katie Nolan, for example, hosts the popular show “Sports?”, a weekly podcast featuring interviews with comedians, scientists, and all sorts of other sports fans. People respond to Nolan’s friendliness and her “tangential” coverage.
Below are 7 tips for successfully launching your own audio series, perhaps something along the line of “A Day in the Life of Santa”:
Don’t spend more than $100. All you need is a medium-priced mic. Try free editing software like Audacity.
Decide on a platform. Try popular ones like Spotify or Apple.
Record sessions for the future. Anticipate not having time to do a podcast in December. Schedule programs now that will go live later on.
Learn how to “verbal font.” Because your listeners can’t see you, repeat your guest’s names frequently, as in “What do you think of that, Santa Bob?” and “Thank you for asking, Santa Pete.”
Get feedback from your audience. Set up free voicemail boxes for your fans to record their responses to your program. Use Twitter to send out polls that garner audience engagement.
Push out your content. Once you have finished a podcast, post it on Twitter to build awareness. Make a short video snippet of your recording session on Zoom and post to Instagram with a link to your podcast.
Listen to other podcasts and cross promote. Fans love to hear recommendations for related podcasts. One of the best ways to gain an audience is by having your podcast advertised on another related podcast. Reach out to hosts of your favorite Claus-friendly programs. See if they will advertise your program on theirs.
Upcoming Meetings
Stay tuned for our May 3 meeting about how to avoid wardrobe malfunctions and stay cool under all your Santa gear. To sign up and learn more about our guest Kathryn Rohe, a Broadway dresser, read Join Our Santa Costume Conversation: Never Bunch Up Again. We will be taking off the month of June in hopes of meeting in person in July for Christmas in July.
Past Meetings
Congratulations to our recent guest Ann Shapiro for her 20 years with Connecticut Storytelling Center. In case you missed our March meet, read Storytelling Gets Real with Ann Shapiro.
“Do you know the story of Mr. Wiggle and Mr. Waggle?” Ann Shapiro asked a group of 21 New York City Santas in a March 15, 2021 meeting. Ann is executive director of the Connecticut Storytelling Center founded in 1984 after the success of the annual Connecticut Storytelling Festival.
In her opening example, she used her hands to demonstrate how Mr. Wiggle opens the door to his house (pop), steps outside of his house (pop), and climbs up a hill down a hill up a hill down a hill to find his friend Mr. Waggle. All Zoom-weary eyes zeroed in on her use of sound, facial expression, and enthusiasm.
At various points, she asked Santas to try to communicate with different emotions: sadness, surprise, and anger — so vividly demonstrated by vice president Gary Dreifus of Brooklyn.
Read Join Our Santa Costume Conversation: Never Bunch Up Again
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, February 22, 2021—Virtual Santa visits will still be in demand in 2021, according to Mitch Allen, head elf at HireSanta, who was recently featured on Shark Tank.
COVID-19 may have made in-person appearances difficult, but the silver lining included being able to do a different type of storytelling through screens.
“Particularly in high volume malls, you don’t have the same intimacy as you do in virtual visits,” he said. “In virtual visits, you have all the child’s information.”
Another trend is more diversity, he told the New York City Santas during a Feb. 22, 2021 Zoom meeting.
“Some of the highlights this year include a huge increase in hiring diverse Santas,” Mitch said. That means more demand for Mrs. Clauses, Clauses of color, and Santas who know American Sign Language.
Mitch mentioned the company’s guaranteed pay commitment as well as the importance of Santas being on time.
Speaking of timeliness, NYC Santas vice president Gary Dreifus commended HireSanta for paying on time.
“You rarely hear me raving about a group,” Gary said, “but I can’t say enough good things about HireSanta.”
To watch our latest meeting and to see Jenny, the company’s “Santa Wrangler” and face behind the emails, click here.
Connect with HireSanta Santa Claus Entertainers Group on Facebook to view live State of the Season reports every other Thursday at 2 PM Central Time.
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Santa, Mrs. Claus, and our elf pose in front of the oldest remaining Dutch farmhouse in Manhattan. Photo by S. Braun
Santa — or rather my friend who portrays him — instantly “married” me as he came into view.
I happened to be waiting for him by the trailers of Holy Trinity Church Inwood, the church’s temporary headquarters during renovations. I could just see the white beard and the top of his cap bobbing along near Academy Street here in Upper Manhattan.
My friend’s son, dressed as an elf, bobbed along beside him. So not only was I matched with a text-to-order spouse, I now had a 9-year-old son who was trying to keep up with his much taller dad.
I had always wanted a child! How lovely not to go through the birthing process or have to worry about this sweet boy’s dental care or college fund.
With six feet between us, Santa and I waved, solidifying our social bubble in the changeable land of COVID-19.
My friend had donned a red suit with white trim. And I wore an Edwardian-inspired walking suit with a green waistcoat and a long red skirt striped down the front with sequin panels of red, green, and gold.
“Merry Christmas!” my new son and hubby called to me.
“Merry Christmas!” I shouted back.
All three of us wore masks.
My cell phone marked the time as 4:45 PM. Now a ready-made family of three, we were running late. I hate being late. Then I reminded myself of our very loose plans. We were to walk up Broadway to wish business owners a Merry Christmas. This would be a goofy surprise, not a sanctioned event.
During the pandemic, there was no hurry because there was nowhere to go. Here in New York City, indoor dining was suspended to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The vibrant neighborhood had put on an ill-fitting coat of stillness.
Four Decembers ago, I had gotten the idea to become Mrs. Claus for a RING Garden tree lighting. The organizers were good-natured enough to say “yes,” even though they had no idea what to do with Santa’s wife as a party guest. I had no idea myself.
As a 40-something-year-old former dancer, I thought it would be fun to have a seasonal performing gig. Male actor friends put on the red suit each year, and I wanted to “fly” like them, even if going airborne was only pretend. Becoming a Claus would give me performing opportunities I could grow into as I aged. With my type-A personality, I took my interest to the next level.
I graduated from Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in 2018. I became the founding president of the New York City Santas in February 2020, when “coronavirus” was just crazy talk instead of a real threat that would affect the entire human race.
Santa, our son, and I passed the outdoor porches of the Dyckman Street restaurants. “Merry Christmas!” Cameras came out of bags. A few customers got up from their tables to snap selfies (elfies).
Photo by S. Braun
We approached Starbucks on Broadway and Dyckman and discussed our route. We would travel north on both the east and west side of Broadway and knock on windows. This was going to be a-m-a-z-i-n-g!
Tonight, the day after the conjunction, when Jupiter and Saturn were so close to each other they could have been planetary lovers, weather was mild. I wore only one skirt this evening, instead of doubling up with the heavy green satin petticoat I liked during freezing events. The ground and bits of sidewalk were still dotted with sharp shards of brown and black snow left from an earlier storm.
Santa and I knocked on the windows of Starbucks. The employees inside waved vigorously. Bob in the Broadyke Meat Market was there, friendly as always.
And up we went, like trick-or-treaters.
Our journey included visits to dollar stores, barbershops, and a tattoo parlor.
Photo by S. Braun
The Christmas tree guys, Samuel and Hasaan, were gone from their spot by Rite Aid on the east side. It was three days before Christmas, and they were sold out of trees.
The fellas at the outdoor fry-up on 207th yelled, “Hey!” They all knew Santa.
So did the man who runs the Halal truck across the street on the west side.
Photo by S. Braun
At Queens Nail Salon, my favorite manicurists came out to snap our photos and pose in front of the store.
Photo by S. Braun
Photo by S. Braun
We Clauses were having so much fun. Imagine knocking on a shop window dressed like a yuletide explosion during a global pandemic. It’s such a rush.
Here’s what I noticed:
First, taco places are big now in Inwood. It’s a trend.
Second, restaurant owners are trying their darndest to adapt to constantly changing rules. Tubby Hook, for instance, has a plastic-covered front enclosure with a see-through roof to provide more warmth in the day.
Third, many businesses are dark with “for rent” signs in front. I can’t even remember what was in some of these places, but I feel an ambiguous loss for what is no longer there
Photo by S. Braun
Finally, I noted how little it takes to make people happy. All we did was knock and wave. And our neighbors gobbled up joy.
Speaking of which, please enjoy this wonderful slide show of our adventure. All photos by S. Braun.
Related Article: “Meet Me at Macy’s” with Lonnie Cooper
Related Article: Let’s Stay Together While Six Feet (Or More) Apart
Related Article: Christmas Week Notes: Checking in with Mrs. C
Related Article: Mrs. Claus Comes Home to NYC
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, Sept. 30, 2020—Santa George McTyre, secretary of the New York City Santas, has painstakingly numbered each line of “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” also known as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
McTyre’s meticulous attention to detail is in preparation of the chapter’s Oct. 18 collaboration with dozens of Santas reciting the famous poem by Clement Clarke Moore. By the way, Moore was a New Yorker and the subject of one of our earlier talks in 2020. McTyre has organized similar dramatic table reads live on Zoom and Facebook, including All About Eve and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
So far, more than a dozen distinguished Santas from around the country are participating, from coast to coast. A reporter from the Times of London.
To be part of this first-ever global event or cover it for media opportunities, please email us at nycsantas@gmail.com with “Night Before Christmas” in the subject line. McTyre will assign you a bit to practice and perform on the day of the event.
Nervous about performing live on Oct. 18? We present Santa Public Speaking: 101. Recently, McTyre and Santa Gary Dreifus, vice president of the New York City Santas, led a Zoom lecture about public speaking to promote the chapter’s commitment to education. In case you missed these two charismatic guys riffing off each other and other guests, click here. Below are highlights from the Sept. 13 lecture about safely and effectively using your voice to polish presentation skills:
Tips from Vice President Santa Gary Dreifus. Dreifus, professor of Magic at the Coney Island Sideshow School, is often amazed that some Santas appear grim when they speak in front of crowds. Santas with big moustaches may consider a trim for optimum visibility. “Take your time,” he said. “Stop. Look at your audience, smile, and then go into your reading. Establish rapport using your presence. Try to look at everyone in the audience and smile. You have all been working on your smile for years.”
And like a good performer who notices his audience, Dreifus looked at all the Santas grinning in gallery view and said: “I saw that Bob. I’m blinded.”
Dreifus’ other tips include making a list of what you want to say and print it out in a large font. Sip water in bottles not covered in labels or distracting branding or logos. If people in the audience want to speak and seem shy, try not to talk over them. Instead, acknowledge them. If possible, ask if you can get back to them at the end of the performance, so as not to interrupt flow.
Tips from Secretary George. McTyre has bachelors and masters degrees in vocal performance. He was also a professional opera singer for 15 years. Being a Claus, though, has its own challenges to the voice. Christmas characters are expected to speak to children and adults for hours at a time over loud soundtracks, he says, as he did when he first started out as an elf on the Essex Steam Train.
This year, he anticipates long stretches talking into devices for remote visits.
Here’s what McTyre suggests:
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Use the singers’ mantra of “pee pale.” You can guess what that means, but we’ll spell it out. Drink enough H20 that your urine is clear instead of dark yellow.
Warm up for 15 minutes before a gig. This means humming and these other exercises:
Lip bubble blow bubble on a sound
Vocal slides, for example, “eeeeee” from high to low to high to strengthen the entire range of your voice.
Try tongue twisters two or three times emphasizing consonants to make your words clearly understood in noisy conditions.
Sound like yourself. To protect your voice and to be authentic, use your own God-given voice.
Buy the right equipment. A lavalier mic for $20 can amplify your voice, so you don’t have to push. Buy two or three in case you step on one
Breathe. Try taking in breath to the waistband of your pants like an accordion. Breathe low and all around your body for supported, consistent air floor through the voice box. This will save you from getting vocal issues like polyps and from developing the “vocal fry,” a pet peeve of casting directors. For a reading, mark out good places to take a quick breath.
Never use throat numbing sprays like Chloroseptic. These medicines kill the top layer of cells in your throat.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These drinks dry out the vocal apparatus. Instead try this recipe recommended to McTyre by a soprano at the Metropolitan Opera:
One cup of warm water
Add a few drops of any kind of vinegar
Sprinkle in a bit of salt
¼ of a teaspoon of olive oil
Gargle for 30 seconds. Hold the drink in your mouth for a full minute, and you will be able to sing for an hour, even if you have a cold.
Finally, both McTyre and Dreifus recommend this laptop stand from AmazonBasics. With free hands and proper posture, even during virtual performances, you will be able to access your best breath support. And, you will be less likely to have your laptop fall on the floor.
The NYC Santas is a new chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas. Founded in February 2020, this new group has been meeting virtually since March and has created important lectures to help Santas (all genders of Christmas characters) to improve performance skills.
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Related Article: NYC Santas Visit Clement Clarke Moore’s Desk Virtually
Related Article: NYC Soars With Its First Chapter of International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas
Related Article: What’s Your Background, Santa?
On July 1, Anne Kadet of the Wall Street Journal was a lovely guest in Naughty or Nice: NYC Santas Interview a WSJ Reporter. The virtual talk included phrases we need to be aware of, including “off the record.” This phrase means nothing. Be smart when using it or when hearing it from a member of the press. She also talked us through her process of finding and pitching stories.
In the past, Anne has interviewed several New York City Santas, including Glen Heroy, Maura McMahon O’Meara, and Ann Votaw.
To protect privacy, we did not record the session. Afterwards, we Santas had a nice chat about how Christmas is looking around the country. Radio City has cancelled its show for the first time ever since the 1930s.
To see a video of Santas ho-ho-ho-ing for a reporter, click here.
Gary Dreifus, Vice President of the New York City Santas, presented "Does Santa NEED Magic,” a virtual talk that reflected his more than 35 years of experience as a magician. Gary is also producer of Magic at Coney!!, a variety show highlighting world-class magicians that now runs every Saturday at 1 PM.
On August 2, we looked at whether or not Santa needs magic. This hour-long Zoom discussion, led by club vice president Gary Dreifus, examined appropriate holiday “effects” — don’t use the word “tricks” — like Murphy’s Magic Haunted Key or the Haunted Key Deluxe. Rather than card tricks that deflect from your wholesome character and “diffuse your brand,” select effects that tell a story about the North Pole.
For tree lightings and close-up encounters with children, Gary — and several Santas — recommends D’lite Light Up Magic Thumbs.
Gary, top left, was the presenter of the Aug. 2 talk, “Does Santa NEED Magic?”
Lonnie Cooper as a Macy’s Santa
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, June 2, 2020—As an entertainment professional, Lonnie Cooper has performed “every job you can possibly imagine,” including road manager, actor, producer, and elephant sanitation in the Big Apple Circus.
But when he became a Macy’s Santa in 2014, he sat in the most famous Santa chair in the world.
“It’s not a stretch to say it saved my life,” he said.
Lonnie joined the New York City Santas on May 17 as a special guest. The Michigan native and Manhattan resident talked about the store’s identical suits, multiple Santas in multiple houses, the new acceptance of real beards, and David Sedaris’ Santaland Diaries.
What does Lonnie want for Christmas? For Santaland to open this December 2020.
Enjoy the video here.
Upcoming online talks include:
Sunday, June 7, 3 PM: “Meet Timothy Connaghan, also known as ‘National Santa.’” Postponed as of 6/6/20. We will do this one another time.
Sunday, June 14, 3 PM: “Dream It ... Design It, Virtual Visits” with Deanna Golden and Judi Broderick of Santa Nana’s Holiday University. This NYC Santas exclusive is only for Clauses living in the tri-state area or who perform here each season. This brainstorming session gets into the details of what you will actually do during virtual visits. Deanna and Judi will host on WebEx, a platform some families may prefer to Zoom. If you are an NYC Santa, please email nycsantas@gmail.com to register by June 11.
Wednesday, July 1, 3 PM (30 minutes): “Naughty or Nice: NYC Santas Interview a Wall Street Journal Reporter.” Afraid to talk to journalists? Let’s pull out our own pens and notebooks to fire pressing questions at Anne Kadet of the Wall Street Journal. What do reporters look for in a juicy story? How do they create headlines that drive traffic? And how as Clauses can we help out members of the media and feel more comfortable as ourselves while in character? This may be a thorny year for news coverage. Develop confidence in preparation of the “green journalism” days of December. Click here to register.
Stay tuned for late summer and fall discussions about whether or not Santa does magic. Yes, this is a controversial topic. Also, we will try to cover more serious subjects, including how to talk to children and families who’ve lost loved ones during COVID-19.
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Related Article: Clauses Visit Way, Way Uptown
Related Article: Let’s Stay Together While Six Feet (Or More) Apart
Related Article: Christmas Week Notes: Checking in with Mrs. C
Related Article: Mrs. Claus Comes Home to NYC
Reno Venturi is in the top left. Look at that beard! How is he not a Claus already?
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, May 15, 2020—Reno Venturi, owner of Actors Gym, in Hamden, Conn., should consider being a Santa Claus. With a healthy beard and a middle name reminiscent of everyone’s favorite reindeer, he could certainly develop his own particular brand of Santa.
And branding is important. That’s why Reno commended unique traits in his New York City Santas lecture called “Getting Ahead with a Headshot.” Not only should you pay for a good headshot, in the range of $150 to $200 that shows the catch lights in your eyes, it should highlight personality, he says. A second headshot might depict Santa off-season, in golf wear or with a bird on his shoulder, as illustrated by one of the participants who attends these Zoom session with his feathered friend.
If you send thank you cards to a casting agency after an audition, print one of these pictures on the back to make you stand out and make yourself memorable.
The next NYC Santas talk, “Meet Me at Macy’s” is Sunday May 17 at 3 PM, which happens to be a popular Santa’s birthday. Stay tuned to learn which of us is one year older while in quarantine.
Our special guest is Lonnie Cooper, an entertainment professional, who has worked with the Big Apple Circus and the Moscow Ballet. Any job you can name in showbiz, he’s done it. He is also a Macy’s Santa who has witnessed the department store’s acceptance of real beards among Christmas performers.
Lonnie will talk for a few minutes about his audition, “the look,” and favorite moments in the famous chair. Another prominent Macy’s Santa may also join in the discussion. Keep your eyes peeled for a man whose name rhymes with “blarney.” We will then open the discussion to NYC Santas and our new friends from around the country.
Please register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEsd-ippzgvGdFp1Yiw6BfbCTihgKl3py8z
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Santas waiting to speak to Debra Schimdt Bach of the New-York Historical Society. Before the talk, a poll asked participants how many of them use “A Visit from St. Nicholas” in their role as Santa. Of the 10 who answered, 60% work with the poem and 40% do not.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK, April 22, 2020—Debra Schimdt Bach, curator of decorative arts at the New-York Historical Society, said she wishes all of her Zoom conferences ended with a group ho-ho-ho with 20 Santas.
Entitled “Sit (Virtually) at the Desk of Clement Clarke Moore,” the talk was tailored to educate the New York City Santas, a new chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS).
During the pandemic, the NYC Santas have organized other virtual meetings open to Clauses throughout the nation. This 30-minute program was the first dedicated to Moore, who is credited for writing “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” better known as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
To illustrate, Bach showed archival photographs of the “secretary/chest of drawers” that most likely belonged to Moore and most likely was the very piece of furniture on which he wrote his famous poem.
“We believe it belonged to Moore and we believe that he wrote the poem,” Bach said.
The poem first appeared anonymously in the Troy Sentinel in 1823. Moore was not publicly attributed as the writer until 1837 when it was included in the New York Book of Poetry. He acknowledged authorship in 1838 and published it under his name in 1844.
So this time lag between when it first appeared and when he took credit has led to debate.
Moore was an Episcopalian minister and professor at the General Theological Seminary in Manhattan. Moore donated some of his inherited estate, called Chelsea, to the seminary. Other pieces of his property eventually formed Chelsea, the West Side neighborhood that still bears its name. Could Moore really have authored this beloved piece of American literature? Or was it someone else? According to Bach, most scholars believe Moore wrote the poem based on the syntax of his other writings.
Legend has it that Moore first recited it at his Chelsea home on Christmas Eve 1822 to entertain his many children. A theory is that a young Harriet Butler from Troy, New York, was also at that reading and recorded it in her personal copy book. Her father and Moore were close friends and fellow ministers. One of Harriet Butler’s brothers was named Reverend Clement Moore Butler, making her a leading candidate as the one who submitted the poem to the Troy Sentinel the following year.
“She was very much enamored with the poem,” Bach said of Harriet Butler, adding that the desk was donated to the New-York Historical Society in 1956 through Butler’s family. She never married. The item was handed down the family line through a cousin.
Bach also showed a handwritten black and white copy of the manuscript signed and dated by Moore in 1937 as a gift to the New-York Historical Society. Also in the society’s collection is an 1837 painting by Robert Walter Weir, entitled St. Nicholas, that depicts a fireplace and an elfin figure with his finger alongside his nose. One of the Santas in the talk noticed a broken clay pipe at the figure’s feet, which Bach attributed to a Dutch tradition of breaking pipes on St. Nicholas Day (December 6).
The painting reveals a “merging of ideas and influence” that developed a “public legacy” of a jolly character rather than the dour religious image from Europe. It also reveals a cultural movement meant to preserve New York’s Dutch heritage. Weir may have been inspired by Moore. Moore was certainly friendly with writer Washington Irving. Irving’s Knickerbockers History of New York first depicted a comedic version of St. Nicholas. In 1835, Irving founded the St. Nicholas Society, a social club for male ancestors of Dutch colonists.
“Despite the fact that St. Nicholas was a Catholic saint, it appears that early Dutch New Yorkers really stayed true to celebrating St. Nicholas and revering him as a patron of children, as a patron of New Amsterdam,” Bach said. “I’ve also read that he was the patron saint of the greater colony of New York, although I’ve only read that in one place.”
In her research for this talk, Bach discovered that St. Nicholas is also the patron saint of her place of employment, the New-York Historical Society.
“I think certainly St. Nicholas as we know him was a New York invention,” Bach said during the Q & A. “So, yes, it does appear that the whole idea of celebrating St. Nicholas in a very whole-hearted cultural way may have originated in the United States in early colonial New York.”
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You may go to YouTube for a recording of the talk that took place April 22, 2020.
Related Article: NYC Soars With Its First Chapter of International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas
Related Article: Let’s Stay Together While Six Feet (Or More) Apart
Our virtual background contest was so much fun. Read on to find who won. Photo by Anthony Piselli.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK, NEW YORK—Backgrounds may be all the rage this holiday season as Santas explore digital options during a global pandemic that discourages crowds. We are prepared to move forward whatever the odds.
On Sunday, April 19, we of the New York City Santas, a new chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas, hosted a tutorial called “Lights, Camera, Action: Technical Aspects of Online Santa Visits." [The recording of the program is linked at the end of this article.]
Ed Taylor from the Santa Claus Conservatory was our special guest and new hero. Who else would even attempt to host a six-hour World Wide Santa Summit spanning several time zones? And he’s doing it again soon.
Working with technology is an act of courage. It’s a live performance with many moving parts, as yours truly discovered Sunday when my screen did not show all of the 15 participants. And two officials of the NYC Santas had a hard time getting into the link 30-minutes before the 3 PM meeting. Some of that was part of a Mrs. Claus NYC glitch (clearing my throat) and a Zoom issue with so many people using the platform during COVID-19. A few others struggled with the passwords. Urgh! I know.
Ed showed us the secret behind his flickering lantern; you must watch the recording. He also showed various computer settings that change skin tone. Does he wear makeup? No, but other Santas may prefer the polished look. He tried on glasses as well to experiment with reflection. Can cell phone cameras work? Yes, of course.
[Click here for additional tips from Ed.]
We hope you feel encouraged. As Ed says, COVID-19 may provide new professional opportunities. You don’t have to live in Hollywood or New York anymore to audition for a part. (I myself haven’t “found” the background that speaks to me, but I will soon.)
Other helpful hints from participants included using a music stand to hold a phone steady for web-based Santa chats (thank you, Carol Baker Claus from Ohio). George McTyre, secretary of the NYC Santas, talked about lighting and also knows about wonderful free Zoom backgrounds. (Ask him about the General Hospital kitchen.) Another Santa (whom I couldn’t see because I couldn’t see anyone) puts a marker above his computer’s camera, so he always knows where to focus his eyes to prevent that “fish eye” look. Lonnie Cooper, a Santa at a big-box NYC store we all know, mentioned his predictions for the season; be prepared for anything.
Group participation tips for Santas conducting online meetings:
Singing “Jingle Bells” as a group on Zoom may not be the way to go. There is a lag, which you must see in our recording toward the end. It’s funny.
Group photos and videos in gallery view make colorful souvenirs for participants. Simply take a screen shot by hitting the print screen button at the top of your keyboard on your laptop or hitting your screenshot settings on your iPhone. Then immediately paste into an email to yourself for safekeeping. Make sure dialogue boxes and the chat feed is down, so you have a clean shot without embarrassing private conversations.
Encourage participants to use their full names and their cities as if they were making a name tag for themselves. It’s professional and informative. Of course, if you are working as Santa for children, you would hover your mouse over your picture and click the three dots to rename yourself as Santa. I learned this from the crew of You Sleigh Me.
Don’t be afraid to try contests. Why not? I think ours was successful. Gary Dreifus, VP of the NYC Santas, tabulated votes for best backgrounds through Zoom’s chat box.
Winners of the best backdrop contest were … drumroll, please … : Ed and Scott, who were tied
Honorable mention goes to: Anthony, Stephan, and Bert
The prizes were … nothing.
If you missed this discussion, no worries. Come to others and be an honorary New Yorker for this limited time:
Wednesday, April 22, 3-3:30 PM: “Visit Clement Clarke Moore’s Actual Desk, Virtually.” Debra Schmidt Bach, curator of decorative arts at the New-York Historical Society, will show us the actual desk on which Clement Clarke Moore wrote "A Visit from St. Nicholas," also known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Or did he? Yes, there is controversy about authorship. Our new friend Debra will tell us about the desk, the author, and whether or not he was the one who actually wrote this famous poem. Santas, bring your questions and your most groomed set of whiskers (real or honorary) for a fascinating online talk and post-session group photo. For extra credit, come prepared to recite a few lines by heart. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Sunday, May 3, 3-4 PM, “Getting Ahead with a Headshot.” Reno Venturi of the Actors Gym will tell us all about why we need a headshot, what makes a good one, and how much we should expect to spend. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Sunday, May 17, 3-4 PM, “Meet Me At Macy’s.” Actor and NYC Santa Lonnie Cooper will share his favorite Macy's experiences. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Meeting Recording of “Lights, Camera, Action: the Technical Aspects of Online Santa Visits,” April 19, 2020. Access Password: 2n@^410e
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Related Article: “Let’s Stay Together While Six Feet (Or More) Apart
Lonnie Cooper and me, Mrs. Claus NYC, performing together during the nightly 7 PM thank you to healthcare workers. Notice we are six feet apart.
Being inside our apartments has forced us here in NYC to “go inside,” an interesting concept as we continue to be in the epicenter of the nation’s COVID-19 outbreak.
Yet there is meaning here, particularly during Passover and Easter, as we hear of friends and loved ones simply passing away. We are not as independent as we would like to imagine ourselves. Our time on earth is limited, as we are reminded every time we hear a siren within our subdued city blocks.
In the midst of sadness, we Santas are skilled at finding the joy that exists for no scientific or mathematical reason. Whether that means dressing up to take out the garbage or shouting to the heavens during the 7 PM thank you to healthcare workers, we feel inklings of this peace that passes all human understanding.
At my virtual side, I have Vice President Gary Dreifus and Secretary George McTyre of the newly formed New York City Santas. When we had our official photos taken March 13, 2020 at the Penumbra Foundation, I had no idea that their physical embraces would be the last ones I would experience, perhaps for months. I couldn’t imagine that this trip downtown to East 30th Street would be the last time I would take the subway—for how long—no one knew. Weeks later, in spite of everything, I’m having such a good time with these guys from a distance. I mean, just look at us. We look like virus warriors as well as master time travelers.
The New York City Santas (from left to right): Gary Dreifus, Ann Votaw, George McTyre.
Tintype photo by Jolene Lupo of the Penumbra Foundation, March 13, 2020
Gary and I are now hosting a magic class for seniors and their grandchildren every Wednesday morning. George and I speak on the phone several times a week, or daily, just to check in and keep up with our new chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS).
On April 4, Gary, George, and I hosted our very first chapter meeting on Zoom. It was so much fun, we decided to do more online workshops and to declare all participants honorary New Yorkers for a year. Since then, I was so happy to be invited to a meeting with the “You Sleigh Me” crew that met virtually on Saturday. It’s impossible to feel hopeless with these Santas around. An hour later, I attended a virtual “Magic at Coney” magic show. Gary Dreifus was the host who brought together 50 participants of various age groups. A few of the performers were international, an extra special treat. See here for more info.
Joy is at the heart of a Christmas spirit that continues all year—perhaps forever and ever. Your presence increases our awareness of the goodness all around.
Please join us for the following free sessions:
Sunday, April 19, 3-4 PM: "Lights, Camera, Action: Technical Aspects of Online Santa Visits." Ed Taylor of the Santa Claus Conservatory will join us to discuss backdrops and his opinion of Zoom and other platforms to reach clients this season. We will have a virtual background contest with absolutely no prize whatsoever to the winner. In the last 15 minutes, we will ask people from the NYC area to stick around, so that we can collect your information and get a special photo with just us! For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Wednesday, April 22, 3-3:30 PM (Confirmed): “Visit Clement Clarke Moore’s Actual Desk, Virtually.” Debra Schmidt Bach, curator of decorative arts at the New-York Historical Society, will show us the actual desk on which Clement Clarke Moore wrote "A Visit from St. Nicholas," also known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Or did he? Yes, there is controversy about authorship. Our new friend Debra will tell us about the desk, the author, and whether or not he was the one who actually wrote this famous poem. Santas, bring your questions and your most groomed set of whiskers (real or honorary) for a fascinating online talk and post-session group photo. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Sunday, May 3, 3-4 PM, “Getting Ahead with a Headshot.” Reno Venturi of the Actors Gym will tell us all about why we need a headshot, what makes a good one, and how much we should expect to spend. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Sunday, May 17, 3-4 PM, “Meet Me At Macy’s.” Actor and NYC Santa Lonnie Cooper will share his favorite Macy's experiences. For security reasons, please register here in advance.
Should you ever have issues getting into a meeting, contact me at mrsclausnyc@gmail.com.
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