The Nikolaus path: tips for prospective Santa Clauses in the workshop

The Nikolaus path: tips for prospective Santa Clauses in the workshop

Last weekend there was an exciting Nikolaus workshop in the Europapark Rust, which is located in the Archdiocese of Freiburg. Organized by the Bonifatiuswerk, Martin Wangler's workshop, which is known as a TV and theater actor. The aim of the workshop was to prepare prospective Santa Clauses for the special requirements of their role and to give them valuable tips.

Wangler said that when playing the role of Santa Claus, a friendly and sociable approach was decisive. "It is important that you always get friendly to the children and that you are sociable," said Wangler. He also emphasized that a passion for the spectacle is necessary to authentically embody the figure of Santa Claus.

target groups and challenges

The workshop attracted both experienced Santa Clauses, some of which have been active as such for over 50 years, as well as new actors. Wangler tried to bring the acting craft closer to the participants. An important aspect of becoming aware of your own identity - "Who I am, where do I come from?"

Wangler gave the participants concrete instructions on how to authentically implement the role. For example, you can think about whether you come from heaven as a Santa Claus or more realistically with a bike to adapt to today. "You have to be able to improvise in different situations," emphasized Wangler, who also dealt with the different target groups that will address the Santa Clauses.

his advice for the Santa Claus: "You need a certain degree because contact with people can be different. You are also an actor, director and have to improvise." In the old people's home, for example, someone is afraid of Santa Claus while another is emotionally overwhelmed. "The conversation is ultimately the most important thing," added Wangler.

The role of Nikolaus in a modern context

Martin Wangler, who himself acts as Nicholas in his home Breitnau in the Black Forest, sees this role a spectacle and a role -playing game. It is always exciting for him, because many people in his area know him from television. In order to bring the figure of Santa Claus closer to the children, he tries to give them the history and meaning of the saint. Wangler said: "I try to convey to the children that after such a long time you still commemorate a person who did really good."

The role of Santa Claus remains important today, especially in a society in which children are often busy with electronic media. "It is a gift when Santa Claus comes and listens to the children," he said. Such moments when children want to hug Santa Claus show him that he does a good job.

In the coming weeks, Santa Claus will also be in focus, which is often associated with advertising. Wangler said that he also addressed this topic in the workshop in order to bring the children closer to the difference between Nicholas and Santa Claus.

To learn more about the background of the Nikolaus, you can find out more about www.domradio.de