Who is Santa Hap?
Santa Hap is a member of IBRBS (International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santa’s) and
Member NOR-PAC Santa’s .
Alumni C.W. Howard Santa School – 2021
Alumni Christmas Performers Workshop – Santa True – Levels I & II
He carries a current background check.
Santa Hap (aka Tony Petzold) takes the Santa name Hap from the Norwegian word for Hope. As Santa is and should be, a symbol of hope.
He has been involved in entertainment since his early years in school. Performing as a Puppeteer, Dancer, Actor and Musician. He has also been involved extensively in the technical support side of the industry.
As a Veteran he spent his hitch in the U.S. Army as a chaplain’s assistant. He served with the Seventh Infantry Division in the 2nd Squadron- Air, 10th Cavalry Fort Ord, CA and at Spangdahlem air base in Germany. He worked with soldiers and as a counselor with the chapel youth. He has supported entertainers and chapel activities in hangers, stadiums, squad rooms, open air during field exercises and more. While in the military he and his wife volunteered for base/community activities as clowns, balloon sculptures and more. The two of them also organized and led chapel youth puppetry teams.
He holds a B.F.A. in Puppetry from the University of Connecticut. At UCONN he and his wife were major contributors (puppet designers, builders and performers) in two of the nation’s largest live stage marionette performances: The Magic Flute and H.M.S. Pinafore. After college he spent time in Hollywood working on projects with Disney, Spielberg, AT&T, Ice Capades, and others. Between larger projects he worked as a children’s entertainer performing live marionette shows at schools and private parties.
In addition to his love for Puppetry he has formal education in interpersonal communications, counseling and speech. He also has training in Biblical studies.
After his stint in Hollywood he spent twenty five years working with youth in academic technical theater. Also supporting community events in music, dance, dramatic performance and more.
Time and mileage has turned his natural beard white and the transition to portraying Santa was a natural shift. A long time professional Santa prompted him to take his many years of entertainment experience and become a Christmas Performer as Santa, he eagerly took the suggestion. His wife supports his efforts using her extensive experience to custom make much of his Santa wardrobe.