I am excited to share that I will be speaking at this year’s WSCN (Worldwide Santa Claus Network) annual Claus Cram in September! This incredible event brings together Santa Claus portrayal artists from all over, creating a unique opportunity for us to learn, share, and grow in our craft.

The Claus Cram is a 6-hour marathon of educational and informative talks, featuring around 10 speakers who will cover a wide array of topics related to the portrayal of Santa Claus. This year, we expect an audience of 100 to 150 portrayal artists who will join us via a live Zoom meeting. It’s a powerful reminder of how dedicated we all are to perfecting our portrayals and bringing the magic of Santa to life for those we meet.

For my part, I’m especially excited to share insights in a 25-minute talk titled “The Secret to Being Extraordinary: How ‘Yes…And’ Can Transform Your Portrayal.” This session will focus on the art of improvisation—a skill that can truly elevate our performances.

Improv is more than just a tool for actors; it’s a mindset that allows us to be present in the moment, react with authenticity, and create memorable interactions. The “Yes…And” technique, which is at the heart of improv, teaches us to accept whatever comes our way and build on it. For Santa portrayal artists, this approach can transform those unexpected moments during a visit into something extraordinary.

Whether it’s a curious question from a child, an unforeseen situation, or a request that challenges the limits of Santa’s magic, embracing improv can help us respond in ways that enhance the experience. During my session, I’ll be diving into practical ways to incorporate “Yes…And” into our portrayals, ensuring we’re always ready to deliver a truly magical experience.

What an extraordinary opportunity and honor it is to be a part of the Claus Cram and indeed the Christmas Community. I’m looking forward to not only sharing my own experiences but also learning from my fellow speakers and all of the talented artists who will be attending.

Father Christmas of the Three Mountains