Rhode Island native and professional Santa Claus Michael Rielly, will appear in the upcoming documentary They Wore The Red Suit. The film highlights the rare individuals who have devoted their lives to keeping the magic of Santa Claus alive in the world by actually being Santa Claus.
They Wore The Red Suit examines Santa Claus from three perspectives: The legend of Santa Claus, the vocation of being Santa Claus, and the Santa Claus industry. The movie will explore the history and evolution of Santa Claus from St. Nicholas of Myra through the early 20th century with a focus on the impact of legendary Santas such as Jim Yellig and Charles Howard, and through the men who currently portray Santa Claus today.
“I have discovered angels living among us. They have no wings and they wear red suits”, commented Director, Larry Peter, “There exist a handful of men who have devoted their lives to living the legend of Santa and making him real for all of us. These aren’t just people out there putting on a red suit. There is a connection to a legacy. Something has been passed on.”
In the film Michael Rielly talks about his journey in becoming Santa Claus. He discusses the influence his late grandfather, Rhode Island’s famed Santa Claus, James D. Rielly, had on him, and the inspiration to found the Santa Claus community, ClausNet.com.
“I am deeply honored to be a part of this film”, said Michael Rielly. “For me donning the red suit is more than a tradition. I believe it is a calling.”
Filming and fundraising for They Wore The Red Suit will be continuing throughout 2011 and is schedule to premier early 2012.
About Michael Rielly
A third generation Santa Claus, Michael Rielly has worn the red suit for over 20 years and has been featured in newspapers, radio, and television. Mr. Rielly is a graduate of the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School and the International University of Santa Claus. He serves on the Santa Claus Oath committee and is the founder of the Santa Claus community, ClausNet — the largest community and resource for men and women dedicated to the faithful portrayal of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. When not appearing in the red suit, Michael Rielly works in high-tech sales and marketing serving in various leadership roles.
About They Wore The Red Suit
The soon to be released documentary film, They Wore The Red Suit is about the unique men who commit their lives to becoming Santa Claus. The documentary will run the gamut of human emotions; from the whimsical coverage of Santa conventions and schools to the historical origins of Santa to the poignant and heartbreaking stories of the most difficult requests Santas receive from children. To learn more about the documentary They Wore The Red Suit, visit: http://www.thesantamovie.com.
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