Based on The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank (The Wizard of Oz) Baum, this fast-moving play narrates the life of Nicholas, a foundling, from his discovery by the immortals until his old age when he is near death. On a youthful trip into the world, Nicholas dedicates his life to helping children, often victims of poverty and sickness. Now Santa is dying. A unanimous vote of the immortals is needed to bestow the Golden Mantle of Immortality on a human; however, Prince Grim feels no human is worthy. Opposition is overcome on Christmas Eve and Santa sets forth with rejoicing by all.

The action of the play is continuous and runs about an hour. With doubling, the show can be performed by 17 actors. Many roles can be played by either sex. Scenery can be elaborate or suggestive. The title role consists of the boy, Young Nicholas, and the young man, Nicholas. In the course of the play, the actor playing the young man evolves into our familiar, folksy image of Santa Claus. These transitions, theatrical and compressed, are in no way confusing on stage. Notes, pertaining to Nicholas as well as other aspects of production, can be found at the back of the playbook.

Composed by Thomas J. Halpain, a "multivoice" digital synthesizer score, with music cues, sound effects, and song accompaniment, is available on tape from I. E. Clark Publications. A piano/vocal score is also available. The show can be performed with or without songs.

Other Ashby plays: Happily Ever After, Don Coyote, Once Upon a Broomstick, Professor Zuccini's Traveling Tales, Santa Claus is Missing!, Shining Princess of the Slender Bamboo

See also: Christmas Musicals