Keys to Success

Mr. Jingeling helps anotehr generation commemorate Christmas.

By Cris Glaser on Wed, Nov 15, 2006 at 4:00 am

Cleveland theater

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Mr. Jingeling celebrates his golden anniversary today by handing out his trademark sets of keys to kids at Cleveland's Christmas Connection. Five men have played the “keeper of the keys" since the holiday role was created by Cleveland cop Tom Moviel in 1956. For the past four years, the honor has gone to local actor Jonathan Wilhelm. “I've learned a lot about the legend," he says. “It's nostalgic when people see my fat suit, shaved head, and crazy hair glued on. It's so recognizable to people." Mr. Jingeling works overtime this weekend, also taking part in Mr. Jingeling's Holiday Express, a two-hour train ride through the Cuyahoga Valley, where he'll explain the magic behind all those keys. Says Wilhelm: “Put them under your pillow, and you'll have guaranteed visions of sugar plums dancing in your head."
Nov. 17-18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 19, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.