FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Master Claus Academy 2026 Announces March Event in Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Premier Christmas Performance Training Returns "Where Santa Mastery Is Born"

REYNOLDSBURG, OHIO – June 16, 2025 – The Master Claus Academy (MCA), Ohio's premier Christmas performance training workshop, announces its 2026 annual event scheduled for March 13-15, 2026, at the Reynoldsburg Senior Center. Registration opens July 1st, 2025, for what organizers expect to be the largest Master Claus Academy to date.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded by Santa Ben Belhorn in 2024, the Master Claus Academy has quickly established itself as the premier destination for Christmas performers seeking to elevate their craft. The Academy emerged from Belhorn's vision to create a comprehensive training environment where traditional Christmas magic meets modern performance excellence.

"We created the Master Claus Academy because the Christmas entertainment industry deserved a training program that honored our cherished traditions while embracing innovative approaches," said Belhorn, founder of Ohio Santas and director of the Master Claus Academy. "This is where Santa mastery is born."

The Academy operates under the mission of "elevating excellence" in Christmas performance, welcoming Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and Elves from across the country to participate in immersive workshops covering advanced storytelling, performance techniques, and business development strategies.

2025 Success and Community Impact

The 2025 Master Claus Academy, themed "Creating an Exceptional Christmas Experience," demonstrated the program's commitment to both professional development and community service. Attendees raised over $1,100 for the event's charitable partner, Boy Scout Troop 826 of Reynoldsburg, showcasing the Academy's dedication to giving back to the local community that hosts this prestigious event.

"The generosity of our attendees reflects the true spirit of Christmas performers," noted Belhorn. "Supporting local organizations like Boy Scout Troop 826 demonstrates that our commitment to excellence extends beyond the workshop into meaningful community impact."

Master Instructors for 2026

The 2026 Master Claus Academy will feature renowned Master Instructors whose expertise spans decades of Christmas performance excellence. These industry leaders bring a wealth of knowledge in storytelling mastery, authentic character portrayal, and innovative business strategies to create an unparalleled learning experience.

"Our Master Instructors represent the pinnacle of Christmas performance artistry," explained Belhorn. "They embody the perfect combination of traditional values and modern innovation that defines the Master Claus Academy experience."

Detailed instructor announcements will be made as registration approaches, with the Academy promising its most comprehensive curriculum to date.

Comprehensive Learning Experience

The three-day intensive program offers participants:

• Advanced Storytelling Techniques: Master the art of creating compelling holiday narratives that resonate across generations

• Performance Excellence: Develop sophisticated character portrayal and audience engagement skills

• Business Innovation: Learn cutting-edge strategies for building successful Christmas entertainment enterprises

• Community Leadership: Cultivate skills to become a beacon of holiday spirit in local communities

• Professional Networking: Connect with Christmas performers from across the nation

Registration and Event Details

Event: Master Claus Academy 2026

Dates: March 13-15, 2026

Location: Reynoldsburg Senior Center, Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Registration Opens: July 1st, 2025

Accommodations: Holiday Inn Express (room blocks available)

The Academy welcomes Christmas performers of all experience levels, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic newcomers seeking to establish strong foundations in holiday entertainment.

About Ohio Santas and Master Claus Academy

Ohio Santas, founded by Ben Belhorn in 2021, serves as the premier community for Christmas performers throughout Ohio and beyond. As an official chapter of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS), Ohio Santas promotes excellence through education, mentoring, and shared experiences.

The Master Claus Academy represents the organization's flagship educational initiative, combining time-honored Christmas traditions with innovative performance approaches to create an unparalleled learning environment where holiday magic meets professional excellence.

Media Contact

Ben Belhorn

Santa Ben | Master Claus Academy Director

Santa and You LLC

Email: [contact information]

Phone: [phone number]

Website: MasterClausAcademy.com

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For high-resolution images, interview opportunities, or additional information about the Master Claus Academy 2026, please contact the media relations team.

MASTER CLAUS ACADEMY 2026

Where Santa Mastery Is Born

Location: Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Dates: March 13-15, 2026

Master Instructors: To be announced

Registration Opens: July 1st, 2025

OBJECTIVES:

The Master Claus Academy empowers Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and Elves to elevate their craft and create truly exceptional holiday experiences. Through immersive workshops and expert-led sessions, participants will master advanced storytelling techniques, innovative performance methods, and contemporary business strategies—all while preserving the authentic magic and cherished traditions of the Christmas season. Our mission is simple: elevating excellence in Christmas performance.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

This transformative workshop welcomes Christmas performers across all experience levels—from seasoned professionals to aspiring newcomers and enthusiastic Elves. The Academy is ideal for performers ready to master their craft and create deeper, more meaningful connections with families and communities. Whether you're a veteran looking to innovate or a newcomer eager to establish strong foundations, the Master Claus Academy provides the perfect environment where Santa mastery is born.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES:

• Performance Mastery: Participants will develop advanced techniques for creating memorable moments and crafting personalized experiences that resonate with modern audiences while honoring timeless traditions.

• Narrative Excellence: Master the art of storytelling through personalized coaching, learning to weave compelling holiday tales that capture imaginations and touch hearts across generations.

• Business Innovation: Gain cutting-edge strategies for building a thriving Christmas entertainment business, including digital presence management, event planning, and sustainable growth techniques.

• Community Leadership: Develop skills to become a beacon of holiday spirit in your community, creating lasting impact through meaningful performances and connections.

UNIQUE ASPECTS AND NEWSWORTHINESS:

• Master Instructors: The 2026 Academy will feature renowned industry leaders and specialists who will share their expertise in performance artistry, business development, and character authenticity.

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program offers a perfect blend of traditional values and modern techniques, preparing performers for success in today's diverse entertainment landscape.

• Interactive Learning Environment: The Academy creates an atmosphere of collaboration and growth, where performers can network, share experiences, and build lasting professional relationships.

• Practical Tools for Success: Attendees receive valuable resources including professional development materials, networking opportunities, and a certificate of completion recognized throughout the industry.

• Innovation in Tradition: While honoring classic Christmas traditions, the Academy embraces modern approaches to create fresh, engaging holiday experiences for contemporary audiences.

IN CONCLUSION:

The 2026 Master Claus Academy represents a pivotal opportunity for Christmas performers to transform their craft into masterful experiences. This comprehensive program combines time-honored traditions with innovative approaches, creating an unparalleled learning environment where holiday magic meets professional excellence. Whether you're looking to enhance your existing skills or embark on a new journey in Christmas entertainment, the Academy provides the knowledge, tools, and inspiration needed to create extraordinary holiday memories that will enchant audiences for generations to come.

Ready to master your craft? This is where Santa mastery is born.

For more information:

Master Claus Academy

Reynoldsburg, Ohio

MasterClausAcademy.com

Master Claus Academy 2026

MASTER INSTRUCTORS

March 14-15, 2026 | Co-Instruction Format

Our Master Instructors will team-teach both days, providing an integrated learning experience that combines decades of expertise in storytelling mastery, authentic character portrayal, and innovative performance techniques.

LEE ANDREWS

Master Entertainer & Santa Portrayal Artist

With nearly three decades of bringing joy and wonder to audiences worldwide, Lee Andrews has masterfully crafted a career that spans from circus rings to Santa's chair. What began as a three-year-old clown has evolved into one of the country's most distinguished family entertainment careers, encompassing over 6,000 performances across circuses, fairs, festivals, libraries, and corporate events.

Lee's remarkable journey started on the carnival lots of McNair Amusement Company, where industry veterans Hugh McNair and his daughter Lisa took young Lee under their wing, teaching him the fundamentals of professional entertainment. By age 12, Lee was performing professionally at state fairs as "Lew-E the Clown," launching what would become a lifelong dedication to creating unforgettable family experiences.

As a professionally trained Santa Claus portrayal artist, Lee has created magical holiday memories for thousands of families throughout Georgia and South Florida. His commitment to authenticity and genuine connection has made him one of the most sought-after Santa performers in the Southeast, with nearly 300 annual performances spanning schools, libraries, festivals, corporate events, and private celebrations.

In a testament to his deep roots in the entertainment industry, Lee recently acquired ProKNOWS—the world's largest clown nose producer—from his mentor and close friend, legendary Ringling Brothers Circus Clown Leon McBride. This acquisition represents not just a business venture, but the continuation of a cherished legacy. Leon, who passed away last year, was a Hall of Fame inductee in both the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame and the International Clown Hall of Fame, and was a longtime teaching partner of Master Storyteller Steve Gillham, author of the coveted "Santaology." This creates a rich tapestry of mentorship and expertise that flows through Lee's work.

Lee is honored to serve as a Master Instructor for the 2026 Master Claus Academy alongside Steve Gillham, bringing together this powerful mentorship lineage. His approach to entertainment is rooted in genuine care for his audience, with a singular focus on creating experiences that families will treasure and discuss for years to come.

Based in Macon, Georgia, Lee continues to spread joy alongside his wife Rebecca and their children, Ashton and McKenzie. Whether performing as Lew-E the Clown or portraying Santa Claus, Lee's unwavering commitment remains the same: sharing love through laughter and creating magical moments that last a lifetime.

STEVE GILLHAM

Master Storyteller & Santa Portrayal Artist

Stephen (or Steve as his friends call him) is Santa. He first portrayed Santa in 2004 for UNC Children's Hospital and has been hooked ever since. What began as a last-minute call to fill in for the hospital's departing Santa has evolved into nearly two decades of creating magical Christmas memories for thousands of children and families.

Prior to Santa, Steve served as a BSA Scoutmaster where he perfected his art of storytelling, skillfully painting vivid mental pictures for boy scouts around campfires with his legendary 'toe curling' ghost stories. The proof is in the detail as he loves to say—a philosophy that would later define his approach to Santa portrayal.

When he transitioned to Santa, Steve needed new stories to provide children with mental pictures of the North Pole and how he—Santa—lived and worked. His imagination knows no limits, and the stories flowed naturally to answer every question. Props were created to authenticate these stories, providing visual proof that yes, he truly is Santa.

Steve and his wife, Debra, revolutionized the Santa experience by developing what parents dubbed "Smart Santa"—an innovative communication technique using modern technology and hidden earpieces to personalize every visit. "I'm wired all the time," Steve says with characteristic humor. "I feel like the Secret Service." This groundbreaking approach transforms routine visits into moments of pure wonder and amazement for families.

Steve's passion for elevating the Santa community led him to author "Santaology: The Art of Being a Great Santa Claus" in 2016. This coveted guide, containing multiple original stories, visual props, and revolutionary performance methods, has been sold out for years—testament to its legendary status among Santa performers worldwide.

As an instructor at The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School and through The Brothers Claus presentations alongside the late Leon McBride, Steve has taught at all major Santa conventions. He continues sharing his expertise through Santa and the Driver virtual classes and as a sought-after speaker on a variety of subjects, influencing Santa performers across the globe.

Steve was inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame in 2017 and into the Knights of St. Nicholas in 2020. He was thrilled by both honors but admits he's especially excited about having a big sword! His partnership with Leon McBride created a powerful teaching legacy that continues to shape the Santa community.

Steve is honored to serve as a Master Instructor for the 2026 Master Claus Academy alongside Lee Andrews, bringing together this incredible mentorship lineage. After nineteen Christmases of creating magical memories, Steve continues his mission from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, returning each year to volunteer at UNC Children's Hospital where his Santa journey began.

As Steve is always quick to add: "I wouldn't be half the Santa I am without Debra."

ACADEMY DIRECTOR

BEN BELHORN

Founder & Director, Master Claus Academy

As the founder of Ohio Santas and the visionary behind The Master Claus Academy, Ben Belhorn is a driving force in the world of holiday entertainment. His passion for preserving the spirit of Christmas and promoting excellence in Santa portrayal has led to the creation of a community dedicated to spreading joy and happiness. Under his leadership, the Master Claus Academy has become the premier destination "Where Santa Mastery Is Born."

Credentials & Expertise: Ben brings an elite training background to the Master Claus Academy, having graduated from the prestigious Charles W. Howard Santa School (known as "the Harvard of Santa schools" and the oldest in the world) in 2022. He holds a Masters Certificate from the International University of Santa Claus (2023, 2024) and has extensive training in performing arts, improvisation, and storytelling across various specialties.

Professional Lineage: Ben was mentored by Michael Howe, creating a powerful connection to the Santa performance community. His commitment to excellence and professionalism sets the standard for Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and Elves across Ohio and beyond.

Notable Achievements: As an active member of FORBS, IBRBS, and founder of Ohio Santas (2021), Ben continues to influence the Christmas performance industry through innovation while honoring cherished traditions. The Master Claus Academy stands as a testament to his commitment to providing Santas and performers with the tools, resources, and inspiration they need to create magical experiences for families and communities.

2026 INSTRUCTION FORMAT

Co-Instruction Excellence: Our Master Instructors will team-teach both days (March 14-15), providing an integrated learning experience that combines their unique expertise and teaching styles. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive coverage of all topics while allowing attendees to benefit from multiple perspectives and decades of combined experience.

Maximum Capacity: 75 students

Registration Fee: $325 per person

Registration Opens: July 1st, 2025

Ready to learn from the masters? This is where Santa mastery is born. 🎅✨