by Reuben, age 9 from Sheffield, England, asks Santa about claymation depictions, the River Don, and Sheffield’s steel industry history.
Dear Santa, my name is Reuben, and I am nine years old. I live in Sheffield, England, where my grandad says our city used to make so much steel that people called it the Steel City.
Dear Reuben, a city that hardworking deserves a very appreciative flyover, your grandad picked a truly industrious hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Is there a claymation Santa? My little brother loves those bumpy, squishy looking cartoons.
There certainly are claymation versions of me out there, Reuben, that particular animation style has a wonderfully charming, handmade look. Your little brother has good taste, claymation has entertained families for generations.
My grandad says Sheffield sits along the River Don. Is that true?
It is true, Reuben, the River Don winds right through your city, an important part of its industrial history. I always follow that glimmering path to help find my way to your rooftop.
My grandad says Sheffield was once one of the most important steel producing cities in the whole world. Is that true?
It is true, Reuben, Sheffield earned worldwide fame for its steel production, particularly stainless steel, shaping much of the city’s identity. That kind of hardworking, inventive legacy is really something worth being proud of.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Reuben Ashworth
Sheffield, England
P.S. Will you show my brother a claymation special at the workshop this year?
Already scheduled, Reuben, movie night never really stops up here.
