Once Upon A Santa Claus

This fast-moving play narrates the life of Nicholas, a foundling, from his discovery by the immortals until his old age when he is near death. On a youthful trip into the world, Nicholas dedicates his life to helping children, often victims of poverty and sickness. Now Santa is dying. A unanimous vote of the immortals is needed to bestow the Golden Mantle of Immortality on a human; however, Prince Grim feels no human is worthy. Opposition is overcome on Christmas Eve and Santa sets forth with rejoicing by all. The title role consists of the boy, young Nicholas, and the young man, Nicholas. In the course of the play, the actor playing the young man evolves into our familiar, folksy image of Santa Claus. These transitions, theatrical and compressed, are in no way confusing on stage. Notes, pertaining to Nicholas as well as other aspects of production, can be found at the back of the playbook.