An Italian conductor who told children at a concert that Santa Claus was not real has been fired. He was replaced by someone more willing to accept the iconic Christmas figure.
Image: picture-alliance/POP-EYE/B. Kriemann
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Italian orchestra conductor Giacomo Loprieno has paid a heavy price for telling things the way he sees them after he was fired for telling a young audience that "Santa Claus doesn't exist" at the end of a concert.
Parents who had taken their children to the orchestral event "Disney in concert: Frozen" in Rome on Thursday took to social media to express their indignation at the conductor's words, press reported on Saturday.
"What happened that evening was outrageous ... I am angry at myself for having applauded him," read one comment on the Facebook page of the organizers, Dimensione Eventi Torino.
The organizers in their turn issued a statement in which they dissociated themselves completely from the remarks.
"Like all those who were present, we remain bewildered by this personal declaration by the conductor after the event ended," they said.
"What was said by the conductor of the orchestra was totally out of place and is an arbitrary gesture on the part of one person. As an organization, we work to make the event enjoyable for all the families," they added.
Loprieno has been replaced by another conductor, Marco Dallara, whose intention not to be a Christmas killjoy has already been demonstrated: by a Facebook picture showing him posing next to a familiar bearded figure in red and white.
The art of being Santa
Lessons in beard grooming, Santa Spirit and ho-ho-ho-ing: the world's oldest Santa Claus School in Michigan is turning interested candidates into Saint Nick pros. Take-home sleighs not included.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
Not a hair out of place
What would Santa be without his beard? At the "Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School" in the town of Midland in the US state of Michigan, students learn how to comb and groom their beard. Artificial beards are frowned upon. Those who aren't blessed with enough natural whiskers can turn to buffalo hair to fill in the holes.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
The Santa diet
A real Saint Nick must have a belly that can shake like a bowl full of jelly. Eating lots of gingerbread and chocolate is thus part of the preparation. Aside from the signature outfit, prospective Santas are also equipped with make-up tips in class. Kids expect merry dimples, cheeks like roses and a nose like a cherry.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
Dancing with Santa
While sitting with kids on your lap is one part of the job, the "Santa School" also teaches dance moves - never know what guests might ask for at the office Christmas party. Here Glenn Johnson of Woodstock, Georgia, is practicing what looks like a whip swing to get Rudolph and his fellow reindeer up into the sky.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
What is it, Prancer?
While this picture was taken at the Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare, Michigan, the "Santa School" offers lessons in reindeer behavior as well. The animals play an important part in the holidays. According to Christmas lore, eight flying reindeer pull Santa's sleighs - nine if you include red-nosed Rudolph.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
Santa's workshop
Most kids ask for iPads instead of wooden cars today. But Santa students in Michigan still learn the basics of toy making. Experts say that children's wishes get more expensive every year. Some boys and girls ask for presents adding up to a value of 15,000 dollars - per child. That will put you on the naughty list.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
Santa Claus and Saint Nicholas
Always jolly, kind and patient - the true "Santa spirit" is part of the curriculum as well. In addition to such intangible matters, students also learn about Saint Nicholas, who according to European legends puts candy in children's boots on December 6, and Santa Claus, who is bringing the presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, depending on the country you live in.
Image: Reuters/C. Muschi
Take a deep breath
Ho-ho-ho-ing just right isn't an easy task. That's why instructors also teach breathing techniques. The whole Santa course lasts three days and graduates receive a certificate at the end. These certified Santas can earn up to 50 dollars an hour. Students come from all over the world and include engineers, lawyers and teachers.
