An Italian orchestra conductor was replaced after telling a group of children that Santa Claus doesn't exist following an orchstral performance of Disney's "Frozen." The conductor was apparently driven to the outburst after guests left the performance early to avoid lines while leaving the venue. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo

ROME, Dec. 30 (UPI) -- An Italian orchestra director left several children in tears after saying Santa doesn't exist following a performance.

Director Giacomo Loprieno reached for a microphone as children gathered around the stage at the end of the orchestral performance of Disney's Frozen on Thursday and declared that Santa Claus doesn't exist before storming off the stage, according to ANSA.


Orchestra guests said Loprieno's outburst was apparently a response to families leaving the performance early hoping to avoid lines while exiting the venue, according to The Telegraph.

He was replaced by another conductor for the performance on Friday and event organisers Dimensione Eventi "completely dissociated" from Loprieno and his comments.

"Like everyone, we were shocked by the declaration made by the director. What he said was totally out of line. It was the arbitrary action of one person," the company said.

Organizers attempted to make up for Loprieno's comments by placing a photo of the new conductor, Marco Dallara, hugging a man dressed as Santa outside the auditorium and having Santa sit in the audience for the Friday afternoon performance.