- I have been working in the Department of Culture and Tourism of Bishkek for ten years. Just as long, I have been "Santa Claus" at the most important events in the capital and I lead the traditional parades on December 31. As far back as I can remember, I have been working as Santa Claus. The very first morning performance took place in my son's kindergarten. He is now 27 years old. Since then, I put on my costume every year, - says Vladimir Vladimirovich.
- Do you, Grandpa, believe in miracles?
- Of course, and not only Santa Claus should believe in them, but every person. People come to me for miracles. They ask me to wish something for them, I wish, and it comes true. Because Santa Claus has a very light hand. Whatever he wishes - it will all come true! The main thing is to believe in it!
- Tell me, is it really that hard to be Santa Claus? It seems to me that many would agree to take on this role as a side job?
- Like in any field, there are professionals and amateurs. And the profession of Santa Claus is no exception. I assure you, it requires a lot of effort, time, and financial investment. Without a magnificent costume, the hero will not be real. And you cannot overlook a single detail. Little ones come up and examine the trimmings, the stars, and are amazed. At the celebration, one must never appear in an old, let alone a torn costume or dirty shoes. Therefore, I recommend all aspiring Santas to pay attention to their costume, and in addition, it is necessary to know where and what to say. The main guest of the holiday must be prepared; creative abilities also mean a lot. A good Santa Claus is a true psychologist, as children are all different. And, of course, it is pleasant to hear clear, correct speech, and if Santa Claus sings, then it is simply a celebration! Children expect a fairy tale, and the miracle must be created in every detail. As they say, everything comes with experience.
- Have you encountered any unforeseen situations?
- There have been many situations where the children themselves corrected the event's script. At one of the celebrations, they were supposed to shoot at me with toy guns at the request of the Water Sprite, but looking at me, the little ones made a different decision; they turned the water guns on the Water Sprite. One amusing situation that I remember: once at one of the morning performances, a woman approached me and asked me to wish health and good luck for her daughter, who was expecting a baby. I wished for a good, strong child to be born and said the kindest words. A year later, the same woman came to me with her daughter. In the girl’s arms was a light-haired baby with incredibly snowy white hair. They thanked me and joked that this child was a surprise from Santa Claus.
- Who is Santa Claus in ordinary life?
- An excellent cultural worker of the Kyrgyz Republic, the artistic director of the Bishkek folk ensemble "Cossack Song" of the Department of Culture and Tourism of the city administration.
- Where can you be seen these days?
- Everywhere we are invited: firms, international organizations, private homes, kindergartens. We go where there are little ones. After all, our main task is to give children the New Year fairy tale they are eagerly waiting for. Personally, and on behalf of all Santas, I would like to congratulate all Kyrgyzstani people on the upcoming New Year. And since this is the Year of the Monkey, I also recommend eating plenty of fruits, bananas, and citrus fruits. And then luck, prosperity, and financial well-being will come to your home. I wish everyone a festive mood and the fulfillment of New Year dreams, happiness, peace, goodness, and prosperity in the upcoming 2016 year!
