HUNTINGTON BEACH : Jolly Types Sought to Be Santas

Finding a jolly, fat and white-bearded man to play the role of St. Nick is not easy, according to Kim Wood.

“They have to enjoy working with kids, and they have to be able to convince kids they are Santa,” said Wood, coordinator for the city’s Rent-A-Santa program.

Wood is holding auditions in search of Santas to participate in the Rent-A-Santa program. Santa visits will be available from Dec. 9 to 23. Visits will be scheduled Wednesdays through Sundays.

Wood said that those selected must not only look and act the part but also be punctual, be in good health and pass a security background check.

Those chosen to play the role of Santa Claus will make 15-minute visits to homes and may make special appearances.

The popular program faced cancellation this Christmas season--a casualty of the city’s budget woes. But after an outcry by residents wanting the Rent-A-Santa program, the city relented.

“We had a lot of complaints. People were upset,” Wood said.

Santas get paid $7.32 per 15-minute visit. Santa’s elves--people who will drive Santa to his visits--are also needed. Elves get paid $7.32 an hour. The city will provide the costumes.

The cost for Santa visits is $15 for a 15-minute visit with as many as five children. Visits will be scheduled between 3 and 9 p.m.

Those interested in playing Santa or an elf or residents wanting to schedule a visit can call (714) 536-5486. The deadline to submit a Santa application is Wednesday.