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WINTER 2026 | VOL. 52

B A C K S TA G E 7 2 ND S E A S O N P R E S E N T E D B Y

BY JAMES SHERMAN

THE KIZZIE THE ATER

JAN 14 FEB 15 T H R O U G H

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Welcome to SE A S ON 7 2 Table of Contents Season Tickets.......................................... 7 Accessibility Resources............................8 Our Impact.............................................. 13 Spotlight On: Robin Bache Gray............... 14 Donor Recognition.................................. 23 Capital Campaign Donors........................ 24 Cast & Crew Listing................................. 30 Scene & Act Guide................................... 32 A Bit Of History....................................... 33 Director Spotlight: Kate Bowman............. 34 Cast Bios................................................ 36 Creative Team Bios..................................40 Volunteers & Volunteering.......................50 Staff & Leadership.................................. 52 Advertiser Index......................................54

As the curtain falls on 2025, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for a remarkable year of growth, celebration, and reconnection.

Last season marked a defining year for The Naples Players—one shaped by purpose, people, and possibility. From record-breaking productions and our largest season ticket base ever to national recognition for our award-winning LEEDcertified facility, our theatre was once again filled with energy, creativity, and connection. More than a milestone year, this was a moment of momentum: expanded education programs, groundbreaking Arts Access partnerships, and unprecedented volunteer engagement reaffirmed our role as both a cultural home and a national model. Through deep collaborations with hospitals, schools, and community organizations, we extended the power of theatre far beyond our stages—bringing creativity, empathy, and human connection to where they are needed most. At The Naples Players, every seat, every story, and every applause is part of something bigger—a shared commitment to building community through exceptional access to the power of theatre. Welcome to Season 72!

7 3 RD S E A S O N A N N O U N C E M E N T S U N D A Y, F E B R U A R Y 1 , 2 0 2 6 - 7 : 3 0 P. M .

SEASON TICKETS ON SALE T U E S D A Y, F E B R U A R Y 1 7, 2 0 2 6 4

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WELCOME TO TN P

OUR MISSION At The Naples Players, we build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre.

OUR VISION We envision TNP as a cultural hub that leads a shift in the national perception of how theatres can impact their communities.

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GENERAL PUBLIC $55-$57/each

MONDAY - SATURDAY 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

SUNDAY 2 p.m.

SEASON PACKAGES $42-$46/each

WILL CALL 2 hours before curtain

STUDENTS $25/each

FREE TOURS MONDAY - SATURDAY | Noon & 5 p.m.

R E M A I N I N G 7 2 ND S E A S O N P E R F O R M A N C E S 2 0 2 6

FEB 04-MAR 01

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MAY 06-MAY 24

IN THE KIZ ZIE THE ATER

IN THE PRICE THE ATER

IN THE KIZ ZIE THE ATER

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Arts Access F OR A L L ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES & PROGRAMS Our Arts Access program provides opportunities and resources for community members of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to participate in our unparalleled, high-quality theatrical arts experiences.

Visit the ACCESS CONCIERGE in the lobby to learn more! PERFORMANCE ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES: WHEELCHAIR SEATING & PARKING

BRAILLE PERFORMANCE GUIDES

ASSISTED LISTENING DEVICES

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SENSORY BAGS RELAXED PERFORMANCES

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BRAVO

to The Naples Players

STOCK is proudly celebrating 25 years as a respected leader in the region’s homebuilding and development industry, and proud to support this award-winning local community theatre.

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Company of Man of La Mancha. Photo by Naples Creative.

COLLI ER COUNT Y CULT U RE ME ANS BUSI NESS.

PA R A D I S E C OA S T. C O M

F L O R I DA’ S PA R A D I S E C OA S T

Our Mission IN A C T ION 2025 was a year of unparalleled growth and impact, not just within our theater walls but in our Southwest Florida community. We launched our full-time Baker Day School of our TNP Academy, had a record-setting season of ticket sales, and created our ArtRx program in partnership with NCH and other community partners. The numbers below don’t come close to telling the full story but we encourage you to scan the QR code to view our 2025 Mission Report Card online to learn more.

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PERFORMANCES 70,000+ tickets sold 272 performances 92% would recommend TNP 2,000+ season ticket holders

EDUCATION & ACCESS EDUCATION & ACCESS 29 full-time students 1,000+ after school students 46 community partners $250k in financial aid provided

VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERS 30+ positions 800+ active volunteers 80,000+ volunteer hours 388 new volunteers in 2025 THE NAPLES PLAYERS

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SPOTLIGHT ON

Robin Bache Gray: Embracing an Art-Driven Life

A unique blend of theatrical flair and artistic vision is transforming Southwest Florida’s cultural scene, led by Robin Bache Gray, who seamlessly transitions from the board of The Naples Players to the creative helm of Gallerie Indigo and even Broadway productions. The concept for Gallerie Indigo was born during the quiet uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, a brainchild of discussions between Robin and Perry Ventro, both dedicated volunteers and actors with The Naples Players. They envisioned a unique retail art gallery that would fill a niche in the market. The “Ready to Wear” Art Experience Located in the Shoppes at Vanderbilt and opened in 2022, Gallerie Indigo defies the perception that fine art must come with a hefty price tag. Owner Robin refers to her curated collection of over 500 on-trend framed art pieces, wall

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sculptures, and home decor as “ready to wear” art. “While the art looks expensive because our artists often take extra steps to hand embellish their giclées and prints, it is actually affordable with prices ranging from as little as $100 to no more than $4,000,” Robin notes. The gallery also offers consulting services, with Robin

Robin Bache Gray made a gift to TNP to name Annie’s Café in honor of her mother, Annie, who passed away in 2018. Originally from Pittsburgh, Robin was a principal member of her family’s retail supermarket business, which owned and operated several local franchise Giant Eagle locations in Latrobe, Ligonier and West Newton, PA. They were known for their sandwiches and a special potato salad, a version of which they are still making at the stores. When she made her gift to TNP, Robin knew it would be concessions that she would support.

and interior decorator Perry helping new homeowners transform bare walls into curated living spaces. A Leading Role at The Naples Players Robin’s commitment extends far beyond the gallery walls. A board member of The Naples Players since 2017, she will soon step into the role of President, looking forward to working closely with CEO and Executive Artistic Director Bryce Alexander. “It is an honor and a tremendous responsibility to be part of an organization that makes such a difference in the community,” Robin said, highlighting that TNP is “so much more than a theater,” demon-

strated through numerous community partnerships. From Family Legacy to Broadway Lights Art runs deep in Robin’s veins—her great-grandmother and mother were artists, and her grandfather and uncle were jewelry designers. This lifelong passion, combined with an acting career that began at age three, has seen her perform in local musical theatre in Pennsylvania and onstage in productions like A Christmas Carol: The Musical and The Great Gatsby at The Naples Players. Beyond Naples, Robin is an active producer and developer for New York

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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City theatre organizations, involved in several Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including Barry Manilow’s Harmony and the acclaimed Water for Elephants.

to learn about the many ways TNP contributes to our community and see how a sponsorship is an awareness-building marketing tool that helps their business and provides vital support to TNP.”

“It is natural for me to volunteer my time and support TNP with a business sponsorship. My dad set the example many years ago when he told me that ‘businesses need to support the community that supports them.’”

Through her diverse roles, Robin Bache Gray continues to enrich the Southwest Florida community, ensuring both the stage and home interiors are filled with passion, creativity, and accessible art.

While many new Gallerie Indigo clients are referrals from satisfied customers and others find the retail shop through social media marketing, Robin is also receiving many new clients who saw the Gallerie Indigo ads in The Naples Players playbills. “I encourage other business owners

“The Naples Players has become my second home. I love that my world revolves around the arts. My mom would have appreciated that.”

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Robin Bache Gray

We are honored to be a part of the renovation team, thank you to The Naples Players for your partnership.

Luxury Residential & Commercial Construction build-gh.com | 239.594.9984

2025-2026 PERFORMANCES Join us at The Naples Players for a night of one-act plays – each evening with a theme that ties the performances together.

Tickets: $25/each 2025

JANUARY 25, 2026 @ 7:30 pm Experience the presentation of five winning scripts from the 2025 New Play Festival.

MARCH 7-8, 2026 @ 7:30 pm When recently divorced Sharon invites NYC transplant Robyn to live with her in Iowa, their new arrangement uncovers secrets and leads to profound self-discovery.

MARCH 22, 2026 @ 7:30 pm An evening of plays that blend humor and heartbreak in unexpected ways.

TNP R ADIO THE ATRE Each month our Readers Theatre artists perform and record a radio play that is free to enjoy online. Visit our website for more information and to listen in. SPONSORED BY

FOR TICKETS:

239.263.7990 | NaplesPlayers.org/Readers-Theatre

In the Voice

Shakespeare

Famous Opera Scenes & Music Theater

January 23, 2026 Daniels Pavilion, Artis–Naples

Masked

Moments of Opera

Operatic Scenes in Disguise

March 5, 2026

Daniels Pavilion, Artis–Naples

Gershwin’s

Porgy Bess and

A Jazz Opera concert

March 31 | April 1, 2026 Norris Center, Naples

GET YOUR TICKETS GULFSHOREOPERA.ORG 239-529-3925

FLORIDA 1 IN SOUTH

THE NATION 7 IN

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CLARITY-WEALTH.COM I NAPLES 239.254.2252 FORT MYERS 239.479.7943 2025 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams: Awarded January 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/23 - 3/31/24 (Source: Forbes.com). Fee paid for use of marketing materials. Scan to view disclosures

2025 Forbes Top Wealth Management Teams High-Net-Worth: Awarded November 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 3/31/24 - 3/31/25 (Source: Forbes.com). Fee paid for use of marketing materials. 2025 Barron’s Top 250 Private Wealth Management Teams: Awarded May 2025; Data Compiled by Barron’s based on the time period from Jan. 2024 - Dec. 2024 (Source: Barrons.com). Fee paid for use of marketing materials. Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Clarity Wealth is a separate entity from WFAFN. Paid advertisement. PM-05262027-8633144.1.1

Donor R E COGNI T ION NOVEMBER 1, 2025 - JANUARY 1, 2026 Please join us in thanking these donors who gave between November 1, 2025 and January 1, 2026. Gifts made today will be celebrated in a future issue of TNP Backstage. Gary Ahlquist Alan & Laurel Alfieri Albano & Lynn Andreini Joan Antos Paul & Katherine Arpin David Aufderhaar Thomas & Sharon Bak Karen & Charles Bang Georgette Bernier & Norm Glover Janina & Kal Birtolo Bill & Darlene Blendick Robert Brady & Kathleen Callahan Jeanne T. Burns Dennis & Adrianne Cady Margaret Cardillo Linda Carlsson Timothy & Anne Carnahan Vic & Patti Caroli Connie Connor John Cooper Thomas Counts Theressa Curley Constance Curran Ann Daly & Francis Trombly Ted DeGroot Kerry DeRubbo Kerry & Maegan Dustin Edward H. & Margaret A. Malone Foundation Linda & John Ehrlich Glen Engelmann Gayle Engels Ann Englert Carole Fenstermacher Gene & Kelly Fernandez David Filner John & Shawn Fiore Stephanie Fowle Louise Friedlander Friends of the Library Lisa Gamblin

Kenneth Gaynor Phil Giaquinto Patricia T. Girard Tanya & Denny Glass Diane Goldstein Suzanne Goudeau Will Gregg Carla Grieve Steve Hall William Handworth Nancy Hayer Arlene C. Heiselman Scott Davis Tracy Holland Josh Huberman Betty Hughes William Hunt Maryann Ingenito Judythe & Martin Isserlis Doug Jensen Russell Jones Sandra Jones Louis & Patricia Jorndt John Kamp JoAnn Katski Carla Keogh Joel Kessler Helle Kiis Dorota & Kevin Kilstrom John Kirk Stuart & Theresia Kline Patricia Knipper Carolyn Kois Sarann & Stan Kraushaar Marissa Kuhnen Donald & Denise Labrie Sally Lackey Joyce Lagnese Donald J. Lanahan Heidi & Gabrielle Lansden Stuart Levy Terry Libby Mary Lisowski

Amy Louv Frank Lupacchino David J. Mann Laura Maran Anton & Carolyn Marek Charles L. Marshall Jr. & Richard L. Tooke Jacqueline M Masterson Brian McCarthy Dr. William McCormack & JoAnn Kriger John McDowell Jennifer McNamara Scott & Louise Root Melby Connie Mockenhaupt Margaret & John Mongiello Connie Muscato Margaret F. Musto Norbert S. Norkus Charlotte O’Donnell Robert & Roberta Obler Patrisha Ocasio Gary Oscko John W. Paul William Pearson Beth Petrunoff Monica Pitruzzello Jerry & Dee Rannow Sue Rapanos Kenneth & Donna Rebar Jeanne & Philip Reid Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Renne Ann Renner Kathryn & Charles Rieger Maxine Rockoff Janet & Gary Root Sarka Ruzicka Philippe Savary Joanna Scanlon Chris Schaller Judy Scribner Bill Shade & John Pochopin Dianne Shanley

Diane Shannon Kevin & Joanne Shannon Janine Shea Toni Sherman Beverly Smith Catherine Smith David B. & Vicky C. Smith Gregory C. Smith Peter & Deborah Smith Suzanne & Mark Smith Stephen Sorett Sheryl Stapleton Ted Stine Teresa Stohs Jennifer Stratton Carol Sweat Thomas & Jeanne Sween John & Diane Sweeney Andrea Tack & Deborah Moeser John Tarabocchia Glenn Taylor Patricia Taylor Dwight Thomas Paige Thompson Robert Titmas Carol Tomer Robert W. Uek Richard & Janet Uhlig Annalora Vanderbeek Andrew & JoAnne Vazzano Anthony Venezia Ginny A. Veras Susan Vobejda Lea S. Wald Barb Wandling Greer White Stacey Wideman Bruce & Barbara Wiegand Marilyn Witcher Craig Wobrock Don Zolidis Michael J. Zolidis

The Naples Players observes a fiscal year that runs from January 1 - December 31 of the calendar year, and includes gifts that support our operating budget. Capital Campaign donors are greatly appreciated, and their gifts are honored in publications specifically related to the progress of the campaign. THE NAPLES PLAYERS

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Capital Campaign DONOR S With major gifts and support from these donors, we completed a $22 million renovation in 2024 that allows us to expand the reach and impact of our mission. Thank you to these donors.

$3,000,000+

$500,000+

Jay & Patty Baker

Jay R. Paul

John & Joanne Fisher Claire Skinner David B. & Vicky C. Smith David & Jerrilyn Hoffmann

$1,500,000+

$250,000+

$2,500,000+

Muffy Clark Gill George D’Angelo & Laura St. Clair Theresa Bill Diane & Sid Davis Bruce & Robin Bache Gray

Rocco & Joan DiLillo

$1,000,000+ Denny & Tanya Glass Henry Price

$100,000+ Peter & Janet Swinburn Bob Brady & Kathleen Callahan John & Catherine Estey NBH Family Foundation

$50,000+ Nancy Woolf Steven & Shelley Einhorn Kevin & Dorota Kilstrom Ken Krier Libby Family Foundation Peggy & James Monson Alan & Liz Jaffe

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$25,000+ Robert & Ruth Brown Jack & Debera Millstein Jeff & Judy Kane Patti Hepburn (The STEP Fund) Kathryn & Ronald Zagel Bruce & Joanie Graev Sarann & Stan Kraushaar Kathleen Azzariti Shideh & Shahab Bina & Family Jim & Linda Mizeur

$15,000+ Elizabeth Rountree Brit & Marilyn Bartter Audrey & Vaughn Pengelly Nancy Ribordy

$10,000+ John P. & Linda B. Cardillo Robert W. Uek Ted & Lisa Bill Tony & Wynne Ridgway Alyssa Haney Paulette Oliva/Oliva Family Charitable Trust Mark & Darlene Miller The Claremont Family The Betsey Harris Fund (Alan & Elizabeth Harris) CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >

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Capital Campaign DONOR S $5,000+

$1,000+

Lake Michigan Credit Union & Finemark Bank & Trust The Nancy Peery Marriott Foundation Barbara & George Davin Donald & Victoria Strumillo Debbie & Tim Wesolowski Otto & Jennifer Immel The Hastings Fitzgerald Family Fund

Steve Purcell Sue Rapanos John & Pamela Meehan Charmaine & Adrian Banky Pengelly Family Fund Arlene & Terry Riegel Linda Fikes Linda Benedict Colvin Jo Ellen Atkinson Bill & Carol Rohde David & Terry Whalley Tom Ray & Lorena Aguirre

$2,500+ Carla Grieve Janet Showers & Day Patterson Vic & Patti Caroli Pat Pollok Dede & Robert Brownlee Cheryl & Trent Waterhouse

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$50+ Joel & Noel Bleier Carole Fenstermacher Patricia Rutzler Scott & Louise Root Melby Hildegard Carney Mary Lisowski Jim Corsica Joel & Arlene Banow Ellen Prokopow & Zane Hollingsworth Dean Corrow & Francis Feltault Pamela & Steven Caruso Mary Connone Linda Reymann Diane Thompson Margot Kenzie Eleanor S. Dobbin Debra Sundin

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From show business to growing your business, we’re here for it. LMCU is proud to sponsor The Naples Players. Call (239) 919-5960 or visit one of our convenient locations for all your personal or business banking needs.

NMLS# 442967. Federally insured by NCUA.

PRESENT

BEAU JEST BY

JAMES SHERMAN DIRECTOR

STAGE MANAGER

KATE BOWMAN

TORI KERSHAW

SCENIC DESIGNER

LIGHTING DESIGNER

SOUND DESIGNER

STARLET JACOBS

ZIPP

JOE PARISI

COSTUME DESIGNER

PROPS DESIGNER

DRAMATURGS

MARY ANNE McKERROW

BRIDGET POULTER

RICKI BAKER & PATRICIA PUIA

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

PHILLIP FAZIO

BRYCE ALEXANDER

T H E

K I Z Z IE

T H E AT E R

JANUARY 14 - FEBRUARY 15, 2026

“Beau Jest” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts. This project is sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts & Culture and the Florida Council on Arts & Culture (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes). THE NAPLES PLAYERS

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT: https://concordtheatricals.com/resources/ protecting-artists

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Cast & CR E W

(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

ABE GOLDMAN ...................................................................................................... CHARLIE BLUM CHRIS THE BOYFRIEND ........................................................................................ JODY CAMERON MIRIAM GOLDMAN .................................................................................................. PATTI CAROLI SARAH GOLDMAN ............................................................................................... PAMELA DOLLAK JOEL GOLDMAN ............................................................................................... NATHAN EICHHORN BOB THE ESCORT ................................................................................................. KIT FITZSIMONS

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ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER .................................................................................. NANCY HAYER DECK MANAGER ............................................................................................... TAYLOR MATTHEWS BACKSTAGE ..................................................................................... LEXII CLEMONS, ARNIE LEYTON LIGHT BOARD OPERATORS ...................................................................... LJ AN, JEANNINE HEDBERG AUDIO ENGINEER ................................................................................................ KOHEN VERRETTE SOUND BOARD OPERATORS ................................................. BRADY PATTERSON, COLTON TOWNSEND AUDIO ASSISTANTS ................................................................. GEOFF BISTROW, KAREN McGONIGLE ELECTRICIANS ........................... LEXII CLEMONS, KATE CONDIT, THOMAS HARTLAND, JOHN McGONIGLE,

KAREN McGONIGLE, CHRISTINA SKIBICKI, DYLAN TURNER COSTUME CONSTRUCTION & CARE ........................................................................... JEAN SNYDER SCENIC PAINTING & CONSTRUCTION ........................ SYLVIA CONGER, THOMAS DURAND, JOE FEMIA,

TAMMY HARRIS, KARLI KNEPFLER, STEVE LEE, RUSS LOYET, DAVID ORTH, RAY MARASCO, PAUL PENNISI, BOB RATH, TRACY ROSEN, TODD SCOVILLE, JEFF SMITH, MARY TAYLOR, MICHAEL TROOP, MARK VOUTYRAS, MJ WANN, FRED WILLIG PROPERTIES ........................................................................... JOE LOIACONO, DEBRON McCARTNEY

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Acts & SCENES ACT 1 SCENE 1: An evening in spring SCENE 2: Later that evening

ACT 2 SCENE 1: Two weeks later

SETTING & TIME: A one-bedroom apartment in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago in the 1990s.

SCENE 2: Later that evening

ACT 3 SCENE 1: Two weeks later SCENE 2: The next morning

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F R OM I T S 19 8 9 P R E MIE R E T O I T S 2 0 0 8 F IL M A D A P TAT ION

A Bit of History Beau Jest, the romantic comedy written by James Sherman, premiered in 1989 at the Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago. Victory Gardens is known for nurturing new American plays, and Beau Jest was one of its early hits. After its successful Chicago run, the play moved East to a new off-Broadway home. It opened at the Lamb’s Theatre in New York City in 1991, where it enjoyed a healthy and popular run. This original off-Broadway production starred Barbara Budd as Sarah Goldman and Joel Polis as Bob Schroeder (the “beau” of the title). Following its New York success, Beau Jest became a much-performed favorite in regional, community, and dinner theaters across the United States, largely because of its warm, funny, and family-centered story. Over the years, it’s been performed internationally too, especially in Englishspeaking countries and Jewish community centers.

(especially about dating and marriage) that Sarah faces in the play. The humor and affection Sherman brings to his characters is very personal — it’s an important reason that audiences relate to them so readily. The idea for the “hire an actor” plot twist was actually inspired by classic theater. Sherman loved old-fashioned stage farces where mistaken identities and elaborate lies seem to spiral out of control. He wanted Beau Jest to have that feel — lots of doors opening and closing, secret schemes and plots, and a warm heart at the center of all the chaos. The play was an unexpected breakout hit at Victory Gardens. At first, Beau Jest was considered by audiences and critics to be a small, sweet show — not necessarily a major theatrical event. But word-of-mouth praise was so strong that performances sold out, and the run was extended several times. It helped put Victory Gardens Theater even more firmly on the national map.

In 2008, a film adaptation of Beau Jest was released, directed by James Sherman himself. The film starred Lainie Kazan, Robyn Cohen, and Joel Brooks. The play is based in part on James Sherman’s own experiences. He grew up in a traditional Jewish family in Chicago, so he understood firsthand the kind of parental expectations Victory Gardens Theater

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DIRECTOR

Kate Bowman

Brings 90s Nostalgia and Heart to TNP Born and raised in Baltimore, Kate Bowman’s obsession with the stage began at age 14 when a sleep-away camp audition changed her life forever. One lead role was all it took; she was hooked. Since those early days, Kate has transformed into a multifaceted powerhouse. A musical theater graduate of the Boston Conservatory, she has built a career that spans coasts and mediums—from the viral digital stages of Dhar Mann Studios, where she has appeared in over 30 episodes, to the immersive world of audio dramas like We’re Alive. Whether she’s performing martial arts, skiing, or harmonizing as the backup singer for the LA-based band Jhey & The Whee, Kate’s versatility is her signature. Now, she brings that diverse expertise to Southwest Florida as the director of The Naples Players’ production of Beau Jest.

A 25-Year Connection Kate’s journey to Naples wasn’t accidental. It was sparked by a 25-year friendship with

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TNP’s Artistic Director, Phillip Fazio. She and Phillip were students together at the Boston Conservatory. “Phillip and I discussed a few plays, but once he presented Beau Jest, I was sold,” Kate shared. For her, the play is deeply personal. “I was raised reconstructionist Jewish, grew up in the 90s, and am an actor. I connected with this story in multiple ways.”

“In theater, you’re watching actors live and breathe in real time. It’s a shared experience that leads to open-mindedness and compassion. It reminds us that we’re all more similar than we are different.” Kate Bowman

Balancing Comedy with Truth Set in the 1990s, Kate’s vision for Beau Jest balances absurdity with authenticity. While the play is a comedy, she insists on an organic approach where every “bit” is emotionally justified. “My cast and I get deep into exploration,” she explained. “We find the funniest, most absurd ways to tell the story, but it has to stay real and true.” Kate has found a perfect match in her Naples cast, describing them as talented, kind, and incredibly open to the creative process. Beyond the rehearsal room, the “gorgeous” theater facilities and the warm welcome from staff and volunteers have made her transition from Los Angeles to Naples seamless. “Since I flew in for auditions to select the cast for Beau Jest in October, I have been impressed with the theater accommodations and with all of the resources available to me. The wonderful cast is bringing so much to these characters and has been open to trying new ways to approach things. I’m having a wonderful experience with them,” said Kate.

A Community That Loves the Arts Though she’s a newcomer to the area, Kate is already feeling the local love—sometimes literally. “I’ve actually been recognized in Naples by fans of the Dhar Mann series,” she laughed. “It was flattering to be identified for my work so far from home.” More than the personal recognition, it is the community’s passion for the arts that has left the biggest impression. With ticket sales soaring months before opening night, Kate is moved by how much Naples values live performance. In addition to a busy career directing, acting and singing, Kate is a certified tutor for children who are dyslexic. She embraces the structured literacy program tools developed by her mother, an educator who owned a tutoring business until she passed away four years ago. Kate has transitioned from in-person tutoring and now exclusively conducts sessions online, as dyslexic students and struggling readers are referred to her from across the country.

THE NAPLES PLAYERS

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Meet THE CAST

CHARLIE BLUM

JODY CAMERON

NATHAN EICHHORN

KIT FITZSIMONS

Abe Goldman

Joel Goldman

Chris, the boyfriend

Bob, the escort

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(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

PATTI CAROLI Miriam Goldman

PAMELA DOLLAK Sarah Goldman

CHARLIE BLUM (Abe Goldman) is a renowned entertainment industry executive and national concert promoter who has presented shows with almost every major entertainer in the business, including Frank Sinatra, Elton John, Michael Jackson, and Garth Brooks. He has produced on Broadway as well as for PBS TV. While serving as the president and CEO of the Star Plaza Theatre in the Chicagoland area, Charlie also hosted a PBS TV “classic movie” show. Charlie serves on the BOD of the Marco Island Center for The Arts as well as the JCMI. He has appeared in numerous musical theatre productions including Harold Hill/The Music Man and Herbie/Gypsy at Fort Myers Theatre. This is his first show with TNP and he is grateful to the cast, crew, and the entire team for welcoming him into the family. JODY CAMERON (Chris, the boyfriend) This will be Jody’s 7th show with The Naples Players and he’s glad to keep making great friends and lasting memories here on the stage. Growing up in South Atlanta, he was active on stage throughout middle and high school. He made a career in the Army, did a tour to Baghdad in ‘08, and after his retirement to Naples, decided to get back to what he loved as a kid: theater. Much love to his wife, Jessica; their three children, Joseph, Emily, and Andrew; and their dog, Leske. PATTI CAROLI (Miriam Goldman) is excited to return to TNP in this hilarious play about romance, tradition, and loving your family even when they make you crazy! Since the acting bug bit in 2006, Patti has appeared in musicals, plays, and interactive dinner theatre throughout Naples, Bonita, and Marco. Some favorites: The Producers, Cabaret, My Fair Lady, Plaza Suite, Torch Song Trilogy, and the one-woman play, I’ ll Eat You Last. A truly magical moment was performing in TNP’s production of Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!, a show that she co-wrote with Carole Fenstermacher and Natalie King. Patti thanks Director Kate Bowman for casting her in this wonderful role; the cast and crew for making Beau Jest a joy; and Victor Caroli—her forever “without whom.”

THE NAPLES PLAYERS

PAMELA DOLLAK (Sarah Goldman) is thrilled to make her TNP debut. Philly born and bred, Pamela works in PR by day, theatre by night (when possible). She holds a B.A. in theatre from Temple University and has performed on various stages in the Delaware Valley. Favorite roles include Hannah/ The Night of the Iguana, Cherie/Bus Stop, Janice/ Italian American Reconciliation, Edith/Blithe Spirit, Chelsea/On Golden Pond, Mrs. Peacock/ Clue, Suzette/Don’t Dress for Dinner, Kate/Other People’s Money, Elaine/Last of the Red Hot Lovers, The Woman/Death of a Salesman, and Sylvia/Sylvia. Additional shows include: Much Ado About Nothing, Proof, The Dining Room, and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, among others. Love to Don for his support and dimples. NATHAN EICHHORN (Joel Goldman) Debuting in 2019 in The Great Gatsby, Nathan has performed with The Naples Players in several shows, including A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder and Death of a Salesman. Nathan is incredibly grateful to take on the role of Joel and perform in this heartwarming show full of love, laughs, and some good old-fashioned holiday family drama. KIT FITZSIMONS (Bob, the escort) has been performing, teaching and coaching improv for 25 years. He has also taught parkour, done motion capture for the Gears of War video game series, and was most recently on stage as the director/detective in The Play That Goes Wrong. He teaches improv to all ages at TNP, at professional workshops around SWFL, as well as Improv For Communication Skills and Acting Out theater programs for STARability Trailblazers, the STARability Music Academy, and Child Provider Specialists. He performs regularly with Stage 2 Improv.

239.263.7990

NAPLESPLAYERS.ORG

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BEAU JEST

Meet THE CRE ATIVE TE AM

(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

KATE BOWMAN

STARLET JACOBS

TORI KERSHAW

MARY ANNE McKERROW

JOE PARISI

BRIDGET POULTER

JAMES SHERMAN

ZIPP

Director

Sound Designer

Scenic Designer

Props Designer

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Stage Manager

Author

Costume Designer

Lighting Designer

KATE BOWMAN (Director) began her journey in the world of musical theatre with a BFA from The Boston Conservatory. She went on to a brief few years in NYC, where she booked a TV gig that prompted her to move to Los Angeles, where she still currently resides. She has acted in many plays in Los Angeles and done some regional theatre work, and directed a handful of plays as well. Some of her favorite stage roles she’s played are Catherine/Proof, Joanne/Rent, Cathy/The Last Five Years, and Chrissy/In the Boom Boom Room. Some of her favorite plays she’s directed are The Art of Forgetting by Cathleen Meredith and Star Maps by Deanne Stillman. She is currently a recurring guest star on the Dhar Mann digital series on YouTube as well as other social media platforms, and has been in over 30 episodes to date. She also starred in the multi-award winning feature film Ain’t We Got Fun, a 1930’s musical farce, and has acted in other independent films that have gone onto festivals as well. She is thrilled to be working with The Naples Players and honored to collaborate with this wonderful cast and crew in telling the story of James Sherman’s hilarious and poignant Beau Jest. STARLET JACOBS (Scenic Designer) designs sets for theater, feature films, events, and TV series. She also recently launched her interior design company in the CT/NYC region. Besides designing regularly for TNP, she has worked on Broadway, off-Broadway and regionally with: The Ivoryton Playhouse, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, New York Theatre Workshop, Soho Repertory Theater, Manhattan Theater Club (MTC), The Signature Theater, HERE Arts Center, New York Musical Festival, The Flea Theater, McCarter Theater, South Coast Repertory Theatre, The Nederlander, Dallas Theater Center, The Old Globe Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, The Intiman, and Seattle Opera. Beau Jest was designed without the assistance of AI. www.starletjacobs.com TORI KERSHAW (Stage Manager) is very grateful to be part of The Naples Players’ internship program this season. Tori is a recent graduate of Mercer University with degrees in Theatre and Elementary/Special Education. Some of her Mercer credits

THE NAPLES PLAYERS

include The Colored Museum (SM), Men on Boats (SM), and A Divine Kerfuffle (Props Manager). Her other favorite credits include Orfeo and The Flying Dutchman (Asst. Crew Chief) at The Santa Fe Opera, and As You Like It (ASM) at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. Tori was an Assistant Stage Manager on Little Women at TNP this season, and is excited to stage manage Rent: Student Edition with TNP Academy this spring. Thanks to Cole Butcher and Taylor Matthews for their support, and congratulations to the cast and crew for their work on this production. MARY ANNE McKERROW (Costume Designer) has been a vital part of The Naples Players since 2005, where she has served as the costume designer and a teacher for the youth theatre program. In this role, she educates, enriches, and empowers young actors, helping to develop talent in the local community. Beyond her work behind the scenes, McKerrow is a seasoned performer who has appeared in numerous TNP productions. Her notable stage roles include: Donna/Mamma Mia!, Elizabeth Benning/Young Frankenstein, Momma Rose/Gypsy, Madame Thenardier/Les Misérables, and Mrs. Lovett/Sweeney Todd. McKerrow’s multifaceted career, spanning performance, education, and costume design, highlights her deep commitment and significant impact on the performing arts scene in Southwest Florida. JOE PARISI (Sound Designer) primarily works as a freelance Production Audio working between New York City and Philadelphia. His work focuses on theatrical shows, immersive experiences, and large scale events. Previous selected experiences include: Imaginary Invalid, Babe, Life and Trust, NYCDA Nationals, The Water Mill Center, The Last Bimbo of the Apocalypse, Nightmare Dollhouse Haunted House, Henry IV, and assistant on Indra’s Net. Recent sound design work includes: Death of a Salesman (The Naples Players), Co-Design A Christmas Story (The Naples Players), assistant sound designer for Ebenezer Scrooge Christmas Show, Good Old Fashioned Family Murder, King James, and The Club (George Street Playhouse). Joe is excited to be back at The Naples Players for a second time this season.

239.263.7990

NAPLESPLAYERS.ORG

Meet THE CRE ATIVE TE AM BRIDGET POULTER (Props Designer) is the full season props intern and she is thrilled to be working with TNP for this season. She was born and raised in Littleton Colorado and she is a recent graduate from Colorado State University where she obtained a degree in Theatre Design and Technology with a concentration in Scenic Design and a minor in Film Studies. She has previously worked as a designer for her college theatre program where her most recent credits include scenic designer for Into the Woods (KCACTF nomination) and the props designer for Peter and the Starcatcher. She cannot wait to continue her props career here and is looking forward to the upcoming season. JAMES SHERMAN (Author) is the author of the plays Magic Time, The God of Isaac, Mr. 80%, The Escape Artist, Beau Jest, This Old Man Came Rolling Home, Jest A Second!, Romance in D, From Door to Door, The Old Man’s Friend, Affluenza!, Half and Half, Relatively Close and Jacob and Jack. James was a theatre student at Illinois State University in the early 1970’s. He began his professional career as a writer and performer with The Second City in Chicago and received an M.F.A. degree from Brandeis University. Since 1985, he has had thirteen plays premiered at the Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago directed by Dennis Zacek, and he was a founding member of the Victory Gardens Playwrights Ensemble. James’ plays have been published and are regularly produced by theatres throughout the United States, and have also been seen in Canada, Mexico, Australia, South America, England, Germany, Austria, Turkey, South Africa, Australia, China and Korea. In the summer of 2006, James wrote and directed the movie of his play Beau Jest, starring Lainie Kazan, Seymour Cassel and Robyn Cohen. It is available on DVD. James currently teaches Playwriting and Improvisation at Columbia College of Chicago and DePaul University. He has been a teacher of Playwriting and Acting on the faculties of The Second City Training Center, Chicago Dramatists Workshop and Victory Gardens Theater. He was a visiting

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professor for the spring ’01 semester in Seoul, South Korea at the Korean National University of the Arts. He has led workshops in Improvisation at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California. He has received grants from the Illinois Arts Council and has been the recipient of fellowships from The MacDowell Colony, the Ragdale Foundation, The Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, and Yaddo. He is a member of The Dramatists Guild of America. ZIPP (Lighting Designer) This will be Zipp’s first lighting design with The Naples Players and he is incredibly proud to be on this team for this show. Last year he graduated from Western Illinois University with an MFA in lighting design. In his down time he enjoys baking and cooking for his friends and family. His design credits include: The Roommate, Cabaret, Small Mouth Sounds, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

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The Naples Players

Life in Naples THE MAGAZINE OF NAPLES

Our V OL UN T E E R HE A R T VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION | 2 0 2 5 Thank you to these amazing volunteers who continued to give of their time and talents this past season.

We could not have done it without you. 500+ HOURS Gwen Bettini Braxton Cabrera Sherlay Cajuste Christian DeSalvo Edison Filner Linda Friis

Lisa K. Gunn Thomas Hartland Nancy Hayer Maria Hernandez John Mcgonigle III Frank J. Messana

Peggy O. Monson Brady Patterson Patricia Puia Matthew Schwabauer Christina Skibicki Jean P. Snyder

Abigail Spiker Michael Troop Alessa Vazquez Jack Weld Fred Willig

Belinda N Conigliaro Christian Conn James Corsica Thomas J. Currie Jon Declet Vivienne Engelmann Joseph Femia Cindy Finegan Kady Finegan Kit Gorritz FitzSimons Stephanie T. Fowle Kaila Francois Mitch Frank Noah R. Garcia Alexander Garciarena Tammy Harris Jeannine Hedberg Naphtaisha Jean Charles

Ruth Johnson Kip Jones Kristina Kavalov Kevin C. Kenneally Steve Lee Terry Libby Russel E. Loyet Karen J. McGonigle John McKerrow Sydney Mixon Brian Muniz Sydney Ott Joyce C. Perl Matias Piscoya Fernandez Victoria Rinaldi Isabella Rosato Kelly Rossberg Vanessa Rossberg

Roseann Ruggiero Hannah Schumacher Judy Scribner Olivia Silverio Eric Sivertsen Jeff Smith Marjorie Smith Mila Stanisic Colton Townsend Landon Townsend Malena Tucker Alyssa Turner Dylan Turner Aseem Upadhyay Lynne Vela Perry Ventro Carter Zgonina

250 - 499 HOURS Langzheng An Leo Benander-McKay Lisa D. Bill Ladd Boris Alyssa Bradshaw Maddie Brendel Dede Brownlee JamieLynn Bucci Jody Cameron Lexi Camina Peter Caporal Robert Cappetta Patti Caroli Tina Cedras Lexii Clemons Grace Condit Katharine Condit William Condit

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VO LU NT E ERS & VOLUN TEERIN G

GET INVOLVED

Departments and activities for friendly folks of all ages and abilities PERFORMERS

SCENE SHOP

Come audition for a show! All of our performers are volunteers, with each cast being a mix of veterans, newcomers, and novices.

Lend a hand with set construction, demolition, painting, and the occasional prop fabrication. Get your hands dirty and have fun doing it!

BACKSTAGE CREW

USHERS

Fly rail, audio assistant, backstage crew, spotlight operator, board operator... the behind-the-scenes opportunities at TNP are endless!

Greet patrons, scan tickets, work concessions, hand out programs, and escort patrons to their seats. Be the first friendly face patrons see and experience!

COSTUME SHOP Assist with repairs, alterations, sewing, ironing, steaming, buttons, hems... you name it! Costumes for every performance are made on site!

INTERESTED IN

VOLUNTEERING? All of our staff and volunteers love to get new volunteers into the mix! If you’re new to the area, or just new to volunteering at TNP, don’t hesitate to join the fun. Test your skills at the next audition or contact Pamela Larkin Caruso to find out what other opportunities there are backstage and front of house!

THE NAPLES PLAYERS

PAMELA LARKIN CARUSO

plarkincaruso@naplesplayers.org (239) 434-7340, ext. 104

239.263.7990

NAPLESPLAYERS.ORG

Staff & L E A DE R SHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS ROBIN BACHE GRAY President DENNY GLASS Vice President OTTO IMMEL Secretary BOB UEK Treasurer

ALAN JAFFE Immediate Past President

BRUCE GRAEV

GLENN VANGOLEN

TERRY LIBBY

GINNY VERAS

TED BILL

PAT POLLOK

KAT ZAGEL

BOB BRADY

KELLEY GERAGHTY PRICE

GEORGE D’ANGELO

NANCY RIBORDY

JOAN DiLILLO

DEBORAH SMITH

BETH PETRUNOFF City Liaison

TNP STAFF (ALPHABETICAL ORDER) BRYCE ALEXANDER Executive Artistic Director/CEO

CINDY FINEGAN Assistant House Manager

DAN RAMIREZ Front of House Associate

MOLLIE BERMAN Director of Costumes

CHARLES FORNARA Artistic Director of Music

CHRIS RILEY Director of Lighting

EMILY BETTINI House Manager

DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA Artistic Director of Dance

ELIZABETH W. ROUNTREE, CFRE Director of Advancement

JULES BRANCHE Volunteer Manager

AMY HUGHES Props Director

DAYNE SABATOS Lead Draper/Costume Shop Foreman

COLE BUTCHER Artistic Director of Production/ Internship Director

LUKE JACONIS Director of Patron Services

GAETJENS (SCOTT) SIMEON Accounting Assistant

LANDON LIBBEY Front of House Associate

ESTHER SNYDER Executive Assistant to the CEO

JENNIFER MANCE TNPA Faculty

KOHEN VERRETTE Director of Sound

TAYLOR MATTHEWS Company Stage Manager

JASON WAGAMAN Technical Director

MARY ANNE McKERROW Resident Costume Designer

LACEY YAKLIN Director of Development

JULIE MEDRANO Assistant Director of Education

2025-26 SEASON INTERNS

PAMELA LARKIN CARUSO Director of Volunteer Advancement STEVEN CARUSO Chief Education Officer CHRISTIAN CONN Front of House Associate JOHN COOPER Assistant Box Office Manager EIMEAR COULLS Marketing Coordinator CAITLYNN CRAWFORD Food & Beverage Manager KENZIE CURRIE Chief of Staff DOREN DANIS Chief Financial Officer JAMES DUGGAN Artistic Associate PHILLIP FAZIO Artistic Director

DAN MILLER Assistant House Manager DANA PETEROY TNPA Faculty SUMMER PLISKOW Director of Arts Access CRAIG PRICE Director of Community Enrichment JEN PRICE Director of Education

DALLAS J. COOK Lighting Intern CALLIE HARTEL Costume Artist In Residence KENZ HODGE Scenic Intern TORI KERSHAW Stage Management Intern BRIDGET POULTER Props Intern HUNTER REUM Education/Directing Intern

All emails are first initial, last name at naplesplayers.org TNP OFFSTAGE: (239) 434-7340 | 700 5th Ave S. #200 | Naples, FL 34102

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