As the festive season approaches, the talent agency Scene to Believe is actively recruiting around 40 individuals in Western Australia to embody the spirit of Christmas as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their elves. With just five months until Christmas, the demand for these festive characters has significantly increased, highlighting a growing desire for joy during the holiday season.
According to Viviana Diaz, the Santa character manager at Scene to Believe, the agency has seen a surge in bookings for Santa meet-and-greets. “Every year we have more and more bookings, more people are looking for joy and hope,” she stated. This year, the agency aims to hire a diverse group of Santas, emphasizing that candidates do not need to resemble the traditional image of Santa but must possess the right personality traits.
Successful applicants will be trained at “Santa School,” where they will learn essential skills, including posture, interaction techniques, and how to connect with children. “At Santa School, we learn about how to approach different personalities and how to connect with people,” Diaz explained. The training also covers performance techniques, including how to deliver a cheerful “ho ho ho.”
For those who have donned the red suit, the experience is one of joy and fulfillment. Ray Sorensen, a seasoned Santa who has been portraying the character for eight years, describes the role as feeling like being on holiday “all year round.” He enjoys the interactions with children and the community, noting that it brings him immense satisfaction. “It’s a joy to watch children overcoming challenges, like the frightened child,” he said.
Sorensen believes that the key to being an effective Santa is authenticity and a genuine love for children. “Don’t expect anything, just go with them and get the empathy that you have within yourself,” he advised. He also shared a few tips for children hoping to stay on the nice list, encouraging them to be kind, helpful, and considerate at home.
The recruitment drive by Scene to Believe illustrates not only the growing demand for holiday entertainment but also the significant role that individuals in these festive positions play in creating memorable experiences for families. As Christmas 2023 approaches, the agency is set to bring a touch of magic to Western Australia with its dedicated team of Santas and festive helpers.
