The Man Who Wanted to Be Santa
“Who IS that guy?” That’s what they’re asking each other at the local police station when Santa Claus shows up handing out gifts. This Santa seems to know them all so well…but they haven’t a clue who he is. It’s not like they haven’t seen people dressed for the holidays, especially since Earlene visits costumed first as an elf and then as a big bunny. Even Chief Culpepper has been known to don the Santa suit. As if this weren’t enough to keep them guessing, state investigator Russell Brooks arrives to check on some irregularities. It doesn’t take long for Brooks to get on the trail of the phantom Kris Kringle and then he gets his first big break – he finds Santa’s bag of presents and, in it, a collection of old wallets. Could it be that Santa is a pickpocket? From singing messengers to lovesick reporters this holiday comedy goes a long way to prove things aren’t always what they seem to be, especially for one old gentleman.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
Playwright Pat Cook Talks About
“The Man Who Wanted to Be Santa Claus”
Q: What inspired you to write this play?
A: I suppose every so often I just get in a 'Christmas mood' and then try to come up with a different sort of setting. No inspiration there really but I do enjoy writing these kinds of shows.
Q: What's your favorite part or line in the play? Why?
A: Always a tough one - sort of like making a quilt and having to choose your favorite square. Best I can come up with is the final scene to the play.
Q:. Where did the characters come from? Are they based on people you know?
A: A large part from my background, where I grew up, and a large part from George S. Kaufman. No particular character or characters, but their general tone and demeanor arise mainly from those two sources, as always.
Q: What did you try to achieve with this play?
A: Frankly, I just try to write the best way I know how and hope to put together a comedy with a little heart.
Q: Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
A: Yes. Merry Christmas!!!