









As the curtain rises on our 2025–2026 season, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for a remarkable year of growth, celebration, and reconnection.
Last season marked our return to our newly renovated home on 5th Avenue South—and what a homecoming it was. From several sold-out productions to an explosion in class enrollment and education offerings, our theatre was once again filled with laughter, learning, and the unmistakable energy of a community coming together. More than just a physical transformation, our space became a launching pad for new ideas, renewed relationships, and a reimagined future.
Through powerful partnerships with hospitals, schools, law enforcement, and local organizations, we expanded our reach beyond the stage—bringing the healing and connective power of theatre to places where it’s 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!
At The Naples Players, we build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre.
We envision TNP as a cultural hub that leads a shift in the national perception of how theatres can impact their communities.
SHOW TIMES
WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY
7:30 p.m.
SUNDAY
2:00 p.m.
PRICING
GENERAL PUBLIC
$55-$57/each
SEASON PACKAGES
$42-$46/each
STUDENTS
$25/each BOX OFFICE (239) 263-7990 MONDAY - SATURDAY 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. WILL CALL 2 hours before curtain
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.
PERFORMANCE ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES:
WHEELCHAIR SEATING & PARKING
ASSISTED LISTENING DEVICES
SENSORY-FRIENDLY BOOTH
SIGN LANGUAGE
BRAILLE PERFORMANCE GUIDES
LARGE PRINT PERFORMANCE GUIDES
ACCESSIBLE GUIDES
SENSORY BAGS
RELAXED PERFORMANCES
Our inclusive classes provide a supportive environment to learn the performing arts for students who are on the autism spectrum, have sensory processing disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, or any other type of neuro-divergency; or any student who may wish to approach learning in a more accessible way.
Arts Access workshops and programming are currently shared with over 45 organizations and serve populations impacted by various societal challenges. Our community enrichment programs have the unique ability to impart social change, increase skill building, encourage connection and collaboration, promote laughter, inspire joy and positivity, ignite confidence and creativity, and develop a passion for the arts within participants.
The Kizzie Theater features a brand-new sensory-friendly booth for individuals and families with sensory processing disorders to enjoy every performance.
BOOTH FEATURES:
• Private entrance
• Light, sound, and temperature controls
• Customizable seating and wheelchair accessibility
• Freedom to sit, stand, and move as needed
• Tactile sensory engagement items
Handheld and headphone devices are available at the Access Concierge desk at Patron Services.
If you have your own Bluetooth-enabled hearing device, you can connect your device directly to our sound by following the steps below.
Scan this QR code to connect to our hearing assist WIFI network.
Scan this QR code to download the ListenWifi App. Open the app and select your theater.
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE, PLEASE SEE AN USHER OR VISIT THE ACCESS CONCIERGE DESK AT PATRON SERVICES.
During our 70th season in 2023-2024, we relocated our entire operation off-site to complete the $22 million renovation project that you’re sitting in now. It would have been easier to close our doors for a season, but the shift into offsite locations helped broaden our reach and expand our offerings to an even wider audience within our community.
100%
175 performances
25,783 tickets sold 85% of all shows sold out held off-site due to renovations
6,322 participants
46 community partners
276 Arts Access classes
1,876 hours of instruction
30+
590 volunteers
50,716 hours logged positions for volunteers both on and off stage
I have been truly amazed at the fantastic job TNP did this year in providing a full season of entertaining and moving productions even with the circumstances of construction and off-site venues TNP faced.
- KEVIN KENNEALLY, TNP PATRON
91% Programs & Operations
Fundraising & Administration EXPENSES
9%
REVENUES
Ticket Sales (27%)
Program Fees (10%)
Concessions & Misc (4%)
Individual Donors (42%)
Grants & Corporate Sponsorships (17%)
At just 16, Braxton Cabrera already understands the transformative power of theatre. A rising high school junior who has grown up on the stages at The Naples Players (TNP), Braxton is currently part of the ensemble in Sweeney Todd. But for him, the magic of TNP extends far beyond the footlights.
Braxton’s journey with TNP began at age 11 with The Sound of Music. “I had never done anything like it,” he recalls. “I was terrified—but I got in.” That first production, The Sound of Music, was a pivotal moment. Cast as Kurt Von Trapp in TNP’s education program program, Braxton stepped onto the stage for the very first time and immediately found himself immersed in a welcoming and inspiring community. “I thought I did horribly,” he admits, “but I got the role and met people I looked up to.” Surrounded by experienced performers and sup-
ported by a nurturing environment, he quickly realized how much there was to learn—and how much he loved learning it. That early encouragement, especially from mentors like Jessica Walck and Bret Poulter, helped him find his place on stage and gave him the confidence to keep going. That one show ignited a passion that would lead to standout roles in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Fantasticks, Young Frankenstein and most recently Hadestown: Teen Edition. With each production, Braxton grew as a performer—and as a person.
TNP became a second home. Long hours of rehearsal taught him discipline and time management. Directors like Dawn Lebrecht Fornara and Charlie Fornara helped him understand the value of control and honesty in his performances. “They taught me how to find the truth in a character,” Braxton explains. “It’s not
about overacting—it’s about making sure the audience feels the story.”
That mindset has carried into other areas of his life. Braxton now applies what he’s learned at TNP to his academics, Model UN, and speech and debate.
“Listening, focusing, putting in 100%—those lessons came from theater and they will carry me far beyond the stage.”
When asked what advice he’d give younger students thinking about joining TNP, Braxton doesn’t hesitate: “Get in class now.” He believes strongly in the value of building skills early—skills that not only prepare students for future productions, but for life beyond the stage.
“The training you get here— dance, acting, voice—it’s what takes you to the next level. Those skills are what will get you anywhere.”
For young people looking to build confidence, connection, and discipline, Braxton’s story is a powerful reminder: theatre isn’t just about performing. It’s about becoming.
To learn more about TNP Academy classes, camps, and full-time academic program beginning this fall, read below or contact us at (239) 434-7340, Ext. 108.
The Naples Players Academy offers a wide range of programs for young people starting as early as age 3, nurturing creativity and confidence through age-appropriate classes in acting, voice, movement, and more. From early childhood exploration to teen performance intensives, students are guided by professional teaching artists committed to building both skill and self-esteem. In fall 2025, TNP expands its impact with the launch of a Full-Time Academic Program for middle and high school students. This immersive offering combines accredited academic coursework through Florida Virtual School with pre-professional performing arts training—all within a supportive, collaborative environment. Whether your child is just beginning their artistic journey or seeking more advanced training, TNP provides a space to grow on stage and off. To learn more or to register for upcoming classes or the full-time program, visit naplesplayers.org.
Contact Jen Price Director of Education (239) 434-7340, ext. 108 jprice@naplesplayers.org
Revenge is a driving force in many literary and theatrical works. In Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd , it defines the story. Todd, a barber who seeks vengeance on the corrupt Judge Turpin, explores the destructive consequences of obsession, the morality of revenge, and the cyclical nature of violence. Dark and tragic, the musical offers a profound commentary on the human desire for retribution and the consequences that ensue.
At the heart of the story, Sweeney Todd, formerly known as Benjamin Barker, returns to London following unjust imprisonment by Judge Turpin. Turpin’s corrupt actions— exiling Barker in order to pursue his wife— sets the stage for Todd’s transformation into a man consumed by vengeance, so fixated on getting justice that he loses his own humanity. His initial goals are to kill Turpin and avenge the destruction of his family. But as his obsession grows, his violence extends far beyond his original target, and his need for revenge becomes all-consuming.
Todd’s descent into madness is aided by his partnership with Mrs. Lovett, who encourages his bloodlust and sees a chance for personal gain. When Todd’s first attempt at revenge fails, his anger expands to believe that all of humanity deserves punishment. His decision to kill customers, who are then turned into meat pies by Mrs. Lovett, shows us how vengeance can spiral into something far more monstrous than initially intended. Instead of seeking justice, Todd becomes
obsessed with destruction, which inevitably corrodes his morality and sense of purpose.
Such lust for revenge becomes a selfperpetuating cycle. The climax of the play clearly shows us the futility of revenge. Yes, Todd succeeds in killing Turpin, but in doing so, he loses everything—his wife, his daughter, and even his own life. The tragic resolution underscores the play’s ultimate message: revenge leads to further suffering and loss, not redemption and closure.
The musical also challenges our perception of justice versus vengeance. Yes, Todd’s desire for revenge is understandable, but his actions raise moral questions about the ethics of retribution. Does Turpin deserve to die? Perhaps. But surely that fails to justify the countless other murders Todd commits in his pursuit of vengeance? The narrative suggests that revenge, no matter how justified it may seem, often results in unintended, disastrous consequences.
Sondheim’s masterpiece remains a compelling exploration of the dark side of human nature, demonstrating that the pursuit of revenge has the power to transform even a righteous victim into a villain.
Since 1980, Clarity Wealth has been helping the best families live their best lives today and for generations to come. Thanks to these families who have entrusted their financial confidence to us, Forbes named us the top-ranked wealth management practice in Florida and the #6 practice in the nation with nearly $6 billion (as of 1/31/25) in assets under management.
Please join us in thanking these donors who gave between April 15, 2025 and June 1, 2025. Gifts made today will be celebrated in a future issue of TNP Backstage.
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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.
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With major gifts and support from these donors, we completed a $22 million renovation in 2023 that allows us to expand the reach and impact of our mission. Thank you to these donors.
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FROM AN ADAPTATION BY CHRISTOPHER BOND
BOOK BY HUGH WHEELER
ORIGINALLY DIRECTED ON BROADWAY BY HAROLD PRINCE
Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick
Originally Produced on Broadway by Richard Barr, Charles Woodward, Robert Fryer, Mary Lea Johnson, Martin Richards in Association with Dean and Judy Manos
KEYBOARD PROGRAMMING DESIGN BY STAGE SOUNDS, LLC | WWW.STAGE-SOUNDS.COM
Organ prelude and incidental organ music recorded by Isaac Adni on the organ of Merton College, Oxford (sound engineer: Alva Orr)
DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER
SCENIC DESIGNER
MICHAEL SANTOS
COSTUME DESIGNERS
MOLLIE BERMAN & MARY ANNE McKERROW
MUSIC DIRECTOR
CHARLES FORNARA
LIGHTING DESIGNER
ABBY MAY
PROPERTIES DESIGNER
AMY HUGHES
EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
BRYCE ALEXANDER
STAGE MANAGER COLE BUTCHER
SOUND DESIGNER
JOSHUA D. REID
DRAMATURGS
RICKI BAKER & PATRICIA PUIA
DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA This project is sponsored in part by the
KIZZIE THEATER | JUNE 25 - JULY 27, 2025
SWEENEY TODD
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
Sponsored
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
PIRELLI ...................................................................................................................... LADD BORIS
JONAS FOGG ...................................................................................................... JOSEPH C. BYRNE
SWEENEY TODD ................................................................................................... PETER CAPORAL
JOHANNA ................................................................................................................. JORJA EVANS
BEGGAR WOMAN .................................................................................................. CINDY FINEGAN
ADULT TOBIAS ........................................................................................................ NOAH GARCIA
ANTHONY ............................................................................................................. LANDON LIBBEY
JUDGE TURPIN ................................................................................................... JOHN M c KERROW
MRS. LOVETT ............................................................................................ MARY ANNE M c KERROW
TOBIAS ............................................................................................................... MATIAS PISCOYA
THE BEADLE ....................................................................................................... KELLY ROSSBERG
ENSEMBLE ..................................................... BRAXTON CABRERA, JODY CAMERON, ALEXIS CAMINA, SOPHIA CONDIT, SOPHIA COSTA, JON DECLET, CHRISTIAN D e SALVO, VIVIENNE ENGELMANN, FRANKIE FEDERICO, EDISON FILNER, KADY FINEGAN, DANIELLA FLOM, GABRIELLE LANSDEN, ELIZABETH MARCANTONIO, ADLER MONPREMIER, THOMAS RICHARDSON, BRITTANY RINGSDORE, ISABELLA ROSATO, AVERY ROSCHEK, GRANT SALESE, MATT SCHWABAUER, MALENA TUCKER, ASEEM UPADHYAY, ALESSA VAZQUEZ, JACK WELD
MALE SWING ..................... LEONARD ALLEN
FEMALE SWING .................. SYDNEY MIXON
TOBIAS ................................... EDISON FILNER
MRS. LOVETT .......... ELIZABETH MARCANTONIO PIRELLI ........................ THOMAS RICHARDSON
SWEENEY TODD .............. MATT SCHWABAUER
BEGGAR WOMAN ......... BRITTANY RINGSDORE
JOHANNA ............................. ALESSA VAZQUEZ
ANTHONY ........................... ASEEM UPADHYAY
T HE DEMON BA R BER OF FLEE T STRE ET
JUDGE TURPIN ....................... JODY CAMERON
THE BEADLE ................................. JACK WELD
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERS ............................................... SHERLAY CAJUSTE, ALLY DOEDERLEIN, MARIA HERNANDEZ, TAYLOR MATTHEWS, MILA STANISIC
DECK MANAGER .................................................................................................. CARTER ZGONINA
REHEARSAL PIANIST ................................................................................................ JULIE CARVER
ASSISTANT TO THE CHOREOGRAPHER ................................................................... SYDNEY MIXON
DANCE CAPTAIN .......................................................................................... THOMAS RICHARDSON
VOCAL CAPTAIN .................................................................................................... SOPHIA CONDIT
BACKSTAGE CREW ................... WILLIAM CONDIT, KAILA FRANCOIS, SARAH GAMBLIN, ALISON IBERGER, GREY PURTLE, SADIE SCARDINO, LANDON TOWNSEND
FLY RAIL .................................................. BRAD GOETZ, KAY HARKINS, JESSE HUGHES, JAEL RESENDIZ
WIG DESIGN ............................................................................................................ SERGIO DUQUE
MAKEUP CONSULTANT ....................................................................................... JAMIELYNN BUCCI
DRESSERS .............................................. LISA GUNN, ANYA LASTRI, HEIDI ROBAR, CHRISTINA SKIBICKI
LIGHT BOARD OPERATORS ................................................................ NANCY HAYER, PATRICIA PUIA
SPOTLIGHT OPERATORS ........... ANTHONY AVOLA, KEN BOUCK, THOMAS HARTLAND, JOHN M c GONIGLE, HUNTER REUM, GIANNA SALINAS
LIGHTING SETUP .................. LJ AN, ANTHONY AVOLA, EDISON FILNER, KAILA FRANCOIS, KAY HARKINS, THOMAS HARTLAND, AL KAVALAUSKAS, KRISTINA KAVALOV, SOPHIA LUGO, EMMANUEL MARTINEZ, JOHN MCGONIGLE, KAREN M c GONIGLE, MEGAN PHELPS, GREY PURTLE, GIANNA SALINAS, CHRISTINA SKIBICKI, MIA STURZENNEGER, DYLAN TURNER, MASON WILLS, OLIVIA YASA
AUDIO ENGINEER .................................................................................................. MEG SCHELLING
AUDIO ASSISTANTS ................. JOEL BANOW, EVANGELINA BUENDIA, EMILIO CAMPOS, ALISON IBERGER, YULIANA MERCADO, JENNIFER PAPILLON, BRADY PATTERSON
COSTUME CONSTRUCTION & CARE ........................... GWEN BETTINI, LINDA FIKES, STEPHANIE FOWLE, KATHLEEN KOLACZ, JOAN LAUGHLIN, SANDY L o PRESTI, CHERYL M c CANN, KAREN M c GONIGLE, BETH RATHEY, JEAN SNYDER, LORI WEST, CHERYL WILLIG
SCENIC PAINTING & CONSTRUCTION ......................................... KEN BOUCK, ED EZRINE, JOE FEMIA, DYLAN FILLMORE, SANDY KEELER, STEVE LEE, RUSS LOYET, RAY MARASCO, EMMANUEL MARTINEZ, TRACY ROSEN, TODD SCOVILLE, JEFF SMITH, WAYNE STRANGWAYS, SYDNIE SWIFT, MARY TAYLOR, MICHAEL TROOP, DOUG WALCK, MJ WANN, FRED WILLIG
PROPERTIES .................................................. JOSEPH LOIACONO, DEBRON M c CARTNEY, ABBY SPIKER
CONDUCTOR/KEYBOARD: CHARLES FORNARA
VIOLIN I: ERIK BERG; VIOLIN II: LISA HALLINAN, VIOLA: BRADLEY BLAUFUSS, CELLO: TIM TORRES; REED I (FLUTE, PICCOLO AND RECORDER): DARBI LAMRANI; REED II (OBOE AND ENGLISH HORN): ANDREW SNEDEKER; REED III (FLUTE, PICCOLO, CLARINET AND E b CLARINET): FRANK SANDERS; REED IV (CLARINET AND BASS CLARINET): STEPHEN J. PARKER; REED V (BASSOON AND CLARINET): ADAM COSTELLO; HORN: DANA WILLIAMS/TRACY LEONARD; TRUMPET I: MIKE SANTIAGO/PETE DAVIS; TRUMPET II: MARK FESSENDEN; TROMBONE I: CONNOR CASEY; TROMBONE II: ISAIAH PASTERNACK*; BASS TROMBONE: ADREN HANCE; BASS: JOE CHOOMACK; DRUMS AND PERCUSSION: SCOTT CRAWFORD
*denotes TNP Academy volunteer player
T HE DEMON BA R BER OF FLEE T STRE ET
SPECIAL THANKS: SCOTT CRAWFORD and ALEX HUFF
THE PLACE: London: Fleet Street and environs THE TIME: The 19th Century
PROLOGUE - Asylum/Streets of London
“THE BALLAD OF SWEENEY TODD” ............................................................................... COMPANY
SCENE 1: London Docks
“NO PLACE LIKE LONDON” ......................... SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT, BEGGAR WOMAN, ANTHONY
SCENE 2: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop
“THE WORST PIES IN LONDON” ................................................................................ MRS. LOVETT
SCENE 3: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop/Ball at Judge Turpin’s House
“POOR THING” .......................................................................................................... MRS. LOVETT
SCENE 4: Mrs. Lovett’s Pie Shop
“MY FRIENDS” .................................................................. SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT, ENSEMBLE
SCENE 5: Facade of Judge Turpin’s Manor
“GREEN FINCH AND LINNET BIRD” ................................................................................. JOHANNA
“AH, MISS” ............................................................................ BEGGAR WOMAN, ANTHONY, JOHANNA
“JOHANNA (PARTS ONE & TWO)” ................................................................................... ANTHONY
SCENE 6: St. Dunstan’s Marketplace
“PIRELLI’S MIRACLE ELIXIR” ................................. SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT, TOBIAS, ENSEMBLE
“THE CONTEST” ..................................................................................................... PIRELLI, TOBIAS
“BALLAD OF SWEENEY TODD” ...................................................................................... ENSEMBLE
SCENE 7: Judge Turpin’s House
“JOHANNA” ............................................................................................................. JUDGE TURPIN
SCENE 8: Pie Shop/Barber Shop
“WAIT” ............................................................................................ MRS. LOVETT, BEGGAR WOMAN
“PIRELLI’S DEATH” ........................................................................................................... PIRELLI
“BALLAD OF SWEENEY TODD” ...................................................................................... ENSEMBLE
SCENE 9: Street/Johanna’s Room
“KISS ME (PART ONE)” ................................................................................... ANTHONY, JOHANNA
“LADIES IN THEIR SENSITIVITIES” ............................................................................. THE BEADLE
“KISS ME (PART TWO)” .......................................... ANTHONY, JOHANNA, JUDGE TURPIN, THE BEADLE
SCENE 10: Pie Shop/Barber Shop
“PRETTY WOMEN” ............................................................ SWEENEY TODD, ANTHONY, JUDGE TURPIN
“EPIPHANY” ..................................................................................... SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT
“A LITTLE PRIEST” ............................................................................. SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT
15-MINUTE INTERMISSION
SCENE 1: Pie Shop
“GOD, THAT’S GOOD!” ............................................ SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT, TOBIAS, ENSEMBLE
SCENE 2: Barbershop/Streets of London
“JOHANNA (ACT TWO SEQUENCE)” .................. SWEENEY TODD, BEGGAR WOMAN, ANTHONY, JOHANNA
SCENE 3: Parlor
“I AM A LASS” .......................................................................................................... MRS. LOVETT
“BY THE SEA” ................................................................................... SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT
“WIGMAKER SEQUENCE” ........................................................ SWEENEY TODD, ANTHONY, ENSEMBLE
SCENE 4: Judge Turpin’s House/Parlor
“THE LETTER” ............................................................................................................... ENSEMBLE
SCENE 5: Parlor
“NOT WHILE I’M AROUND” ............................................................................ MRS. LOVETT, TOBIAS
SCENE 6: Bakehouse/Parlor/Barber Shop
“PARLOR SONGS” ....................................................................... MRS. LOVETT, THE BEADLE, TOBIAS
SCENE 7: Fogg’s Asylum
“FOGG’S ASYLUM” ........................................................................................................ ENSEMBLE
SCENE 8: Streets of London
“CITY ON FIRE” .............................................................................................. JOHANNA, ENSEMBLE
SCENE 9: Pie Shop/Streets of London
“SEARCHING” ............................ SWEENEY TODD, MRS. LOVETT, BEGGAR WOMAN, ANTHONY, ENSEMBLE
SCENE 10: Parlor/Barber Shop
“JUDGE’S RETURN” .......................................................................... SWEENEY TODD, JUDGE TURPIN
SCENE 11: Bakehouse
“FINAL SCENE” ...................................................................................................... SWEENEY TODD
EPILOGUE - Bakehouse
“THE BALLAD OF SWEENEY TODD” ............................................................................... COMPANY
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by Hugh Wheeler, premiered on Broadway at the Uris Theatre (now the Gershwin Theatre) on March 1, 1979. Directed by the legendary Harold Prince, the production married Sondheim’s emotionally complex score with a grand, gritty theatrical vision that challenged and reshaped the boundaries of the American musical.
Prince emphasized the broader socioeconomic themes embedded in the tale—framing it not just as a personal story of revenge, but as a powerful critique of class disparity and industrial exploitation in Victorian London. In his hands, the show became a scathing commentary on how society chews up the vulnerable, while Sondheim’s music added psychological intensity, using dissonance, contrapuntal harmonies, and lyric motifs to build character and tension.
The original cast featured Len Cariou in the title role and Angela Lansbury as the delightfully macabre Mrs. Lovett—two powerhouse performances that defined the roles for generations to follow. The production’s monumental set, designed by Eugene Lee, included a revolving stage and towering iron structures that visually echoed the dehumanizing machinery of the Industrial Revolution. The visual aesthetic and production scale were groundbreaking for a musical at the time and underscored the opera-like ambition of the piece.
In addition to the notable revivals below, Sweeney Todd was also been adapted into a successful 2007 film directed by Tim Burton, starring Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter. The film introduced the musical to an even broader audience, reinforcing its place in pop culture.
West End – The first London production starred Denis Quilley and Sheila Hancock and opened at the Drury Lane Theatre.
Broadway Revival – Directed by Susan H. Schulman, this version starred Bob Gunton and Beth Fowler, with a more intimate and chamber-like production.
John Doyle Revival – This minimalist, highly stylized Broadway revival featured actors playing their own instruments, creating a claustrophobic and psychological experience. It starred Michael Cerveris and Patti LuPone, winning critical acclaim and multiple Tony Awards.
2012 London Production (Off-Broadway Transfer) – A highly praised production starring Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton that emphasized the horror of the story.
Best Musical
Best Original Score (Stephen Sondheim)
Best Book of a Musical (Hugh Wheeler)
Best Direction of a Musical (Harold Prince)
Best Scenic Design (Eugene Lee)
Best Costume Design (Franne Lee)
Best Leading Actor in a Musical (Len Cariou)
Best Leading Actress in a Musical (Angela Lansbury)
Off-Broadway “Pie Shop” Revival – A unique immersive production staged at the Barrow Street Theatre in an actual pie shop. It starred Norm Lewis and Carolee Carmello at different times.
Broadway Revival – A return to full orchestration, starring Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford , bringing a grandscale production back to Broadway after many minimalist interpretations . 2017 2023
Annaleigh Ashford and Josh Groban in the current 2023 Broadway revival.
LEONARD ALLEN
Male Swing
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
KADY FINEGAN
Ensemble
Ensemble
Ensemble
LANDON LIBBEY
Anthony
ELIZABETH MARCANTONIO
Ensemble
SYDNEY MIXON
Female Swing/Assistant to the Choreographer
Ensemble
BRITTANY RINGSDORE Ensemble
Ensemble
GRANT SALESE
Ensemble
MATT SCHWABAUER Ensemble
ASEEM UPADHYAY
Ensemble
ALESSA VAZQUEZ Ensemble
LEONARD ALLEN (Male Swing) is a rising second-year student at Syracuse University.
LADD BORIS (Pirelli) made his professional debut in the movie Fame while actually being a student at the famed high school. He went on to see his dreams come true singing at the Metropolitan Opera. Later, he performed in Broadway shows, 1st National Tours, and regional theatre across the country for over 30 years. Locally, he has appeared in several productions at TheatreZone. He was very grateful to be invited to return to the stage at TNP after 14 years for Man of La Mancha to play his favorite role, Sancho. He never imagined he would be asked to stay on for Pirelli in Sweeney Todd , a role he has always dreamed of doing. “Don’t give up your dreams and they just might come true.” Thanks to all the wonderful folks here at TNP for making my dreams come true!
JOSEPH C. BYRNE (Jonas Fogg/Ensemble) is a local SWFL actor and musician born and raised in the 239. His recent roles/shows include Quasimodo/The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Nostradamus/ Something Rotten!, Robbie/The Wedding Singer, Mac/42nd Street, and Ensemble/Once. Joe is ready to thrill and chill you in this bloodcurdling production. Scare you later! Attend the tale…
BRAXTON CABRERA (Ensemble) is so excited to perform in another production with The Naples Players. He would like to thank Dawn, Charlie, and the marvelous Cole Butcher for their wonderful leadership and direction in this artistic process. He would also like to thank Sydney and Thomas for being such a cohesive Assistant/Dance Captain duo. He is honored to tell this classic tale. Previous credits: Hades/Hadestown: Teen Edition, Frederick Frankenstein/Young Frankenstein, U/S Matt/ The Fantasticks, and Phoebus/The Hunchback of Notre Dame Teen.
JODY CAMERON (Ensemble) is a retired Army Combat Veteran and local business owner returning to the TNP stage for his 6th production. Previous roles include Robert/Boeing Boeing, Ernie/Rumors, Elwood/Harvey, Actor 3/The Dining Room,
and Choir/The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Jody is humbled and honored to share the stage with such talent and feels at home with the staff and volunteers of TNP. Much love to his supportive wife Jessica and their three beautiful children, Joseph, Emily, and Andrew.
ALEXIS CAMINA (Ensemble) is a rising senior in the BFA Musical Theatre Program at the University of Central Florida. She is also an Education Intern for TNPA’s 2025 Summer program. Previous TNP credits include Moana/Moana JR and Ensemble/Mamma Mia! Teen. Other previous credits include Anya/The Cherry Orchard , Florika, U/S Esmeralda/The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Ensemble/The Prom, and Ensemble/Fiddler on the Roof Website: alexiscamina.com
PETER CAPORAL (Sweeney Todd) is thrilled to return to the stage at The Naples Players to take part in this production of Sweeney Todd . Recent credits include Lenny Ganz/Rumors (TNP), off-Broadway shows including Tony Valone/How Alfo Learned to Love, and many other productions in and around New York City. He also recently starred in Father Nose Best (Leonard), winner of the 2024 Bonita Springs Short Film Festival. Peter is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Thanks to Jen for her undying love and support.
SOPHIA CONDIT (Ensemble) is a singer and actress based in southwest Florida and is a rising Senior BFA Musical Theatre major at Slippery Rock University. Some of her favorite credits include Carolyn/The Bridges of Madison County (TheatreZone), Cheshire Cat/Tabitha/Alice By Heart (SRU), and Siobhan/The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (SRU). When not performing, Sophia can be found writing interactive murder mysteries, playing D&D, or baking while jamming to music. Enjoy the show!
SOPHIA COSTA (Ensemble) is an FGCU Biology graduate who minored in theatre and has found solace on stage since she was 6 years old. Between ballet, tap, theatre, choir, marching band, indoor colorguard, and so much more, the arts have always
happily taken up a major part of her life. She is thrilled to be returning to The Naples Players’ stage after a 6-year hiatus following her last production Guys and Dolls. Before you see her on stage at night, you can catch her working hard to help doctors treat their patients better, or in her free time enjoying a cup of coffee and a good book with her 2 cats.
JON DECLET (Ensemble) is thrilled to perform in his first production at The Naples Players. Previously, Jon has performed at The Lab Theater as Ricky/ Ride the Cyclone, Peter/Jesus Christ Superstar, Brett/Alien the Parody, and FBI Johnson/Yippie Ki Yay. Jon has a background in competitive dance and studied music at FGCU. @jonddeclet
CHRISTIAN De SALVO (Ensemble) is currently a rising senior in high school and will be attending the tale of TNP’s 2025 production of Sweeney Todd with a rather overwhelming caliber of fervor. Most recently, he was seen performing in TNP’s 2025 production as Anselmo/Barber/Man of La Mancha and in TNPA’s 2024 production as The Hermit/ Young Frankenstein. His gratitude goes out to his friends and family, along with the TNP staff and crew, for their extraordinary efforts in making this production as awe-inspiring as it is thrilling. Proverbs 19:21. Enjoy the show! INSTA: christiandesalvo_
VIVIENNE ENGELMANN (Ensemble) is so excited to be a part of Sweeney Todd! Vivienne is currently a senior at Gulf Coast High and will be attending Coastal Carolina University in the fall to get her BFA in Musical Theatre. Vivienne has been the President of the Student Leadership Council at TNP this year. Her recent credits include: Inga/ Young Frankenstein, Fate/Hadestown: Teen Edition, and Anytime Annie/42nd Street Teen. She thanks her family, coaches, and friends for always supporting her, and a special thanks to Dawn and Charlie for bringing this show to life! She hopes you enjoy it!!
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JORJA EVANS (Johanna) is so excited to make her debut at TNP! She is currently studying Vocal Performance at FGCU and has loved being in theatre since she was little. Her past credits include Amy/ Little Women, the cast member who sang “By My Side” in Godspell , and most recently as Ensemble/ The Mikado as her first opera at Opera Naples. She wants to thank her family and friends for always supporting her and pushing her to do her best, and encouraging her to keep going. Enjoy the show!
FRANKIE FEDERICO (Ensemble) is excited to return to The Naples Players to do Sweeney Todd He has been in many productions at TNP over the years, most recently, A Christmas Story: The Musical, 42nd Street, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Mary Poppins.
EDISON FILNER (Ensemble) is a rising sophomore at Barron Collier High and is thrilled to be a part of his first mainstage show with Sweeney Todd! Previous roles include Ziggy/Young Frankenstein and Worker/Hadestown Teen. When not acting on stage, Edison enjoys playing violin and viola and performs with the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra as concertmaster. Special thanks to Dawn and Charlie for their constant support and guidance and he hopes you enjoy the show!
CINDY FINEGAN (Beggar Woman) moved here recently from the NY city area, where she has been performing professionally and locally for over 30 years. She is honored to make her SW Florida debut with TNP, especially alongside her daughter, Kady. Previous credits include Diana/Next To Normal , Dot/Sunday in the Park, and Trina/Falsettos, but her favorite role is definitely mom to Jack and Kady. Love to Mark for always being so supportive, and thanks to Dawn and Charlie for this amazing opportunity.
KADY FINEGAN (Ensemble) is going into her sophomore year at Rollins College where she is studying Communications. Originally from New York, she is so excited to make her Florida debut at The Naples Players with her mom! Her favorite previous performances include Little Red Riding Hood/
Into the Woods and Gretchen/Mean Girls. She thanks her mom, dad, and brother Jack for always being supportive. This performance is dedicated to her friends and family back in New York.
DANIELLA FLOM (Ensemble) is entering her junior year as a Theatre Education major at Belmont University. Her most recent performance credits with The Naples Players include Louisa/The Sound of Music and Ensemble/The Hunchback of Notre Dame Teen. Last summer, she assistant directed/ choreographed the TNPA production of School of Rock, and in the spring, she choreographed The Prom for Belmont’s musical theatre club, Curtains Up. Daniella is so thankful to be performing with TNP again, and she hopes you enjoy the show!
NOAH GARCIA (Adult Tobias) is so very excited to be performing in their second show at The Naples Players! After an exhilarating run of Man of La Mancha in the Kizzie Theater as a Muleteer, they are thrilled to take on the challenging role of Adult Tobias. Crafting characters and making them their own is something Noah deeply enjoys, and bringing this story to life alongside such a talented cast and crew has been an absolute gift. They are grateful for the opportunity to continue growing as a performer and to share this experience with the incredible The Naples Players family!
GABRIELLE LANSDEN (Ensemble) is elated to be in this amazing production as her first time performing here at The Naples Players. She has previously played Jane Doe/Ride The Cyclone and Johanna/ Sweeney Todd at The Lab Theater. She was a previous intern here at TNP during 2020 and is so excited to be back. She would like to thank her parents, boyfriend, and her friends for their support and encouragement. She hopes you enjoy this bloody good show.
LANDON LIBBEY (Anthony) is sailing into the role of Anthony with slightly less murder on his mind than most of Fleet Street. He’s honored to bring this hopeful and heartfelt character to life and is grateful to be part of such a talented cast and creative team. Landon thanks his family, friends, and
all those who continue to support his journey on and off the stage. Enjoy the madness, music, and— of course—the meat pies!
ELIZABETH MARCANTONIO (Ensemble) has been performing with TNP since the late 1900s, and is so grateful to finally check Sweeney Todd off of her bucket list. Elizabeth was last seen as Phyllis in the 2024 production of 42nd Street. Other favorite TNP credits include: Mary Poppins/Mary Poppins, Eliza/My Fair Lady, Louise/Gypsy, Ilona/She Loves Me, Rosie/Bye Bye Birdie, Chicago, Mamma Mia!, The Rocky Horror Show, and more. When not on stage, Elizabeth shares Mr. Todd’s passion for skincare (with far less violence) at @Chrysalism_ skinco. Huge thanks to the entire creative team, cast, and crew for a bloody good time.
JOHN M cKERROW (Judge Turpin) most recently played Dr. Carrasco in TNP’s production of Man of La Mancha . Other stage credits include Robert/ Proof, Ed/The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Prospero/The Tempest, Bill/Mamma Mia!, Barrymore/I Hate Hamlet, Petruchio/ The Taming of the Shrew, Macbeth/Macbeth, and Benedick/Much Ado About Nothing. His television appearances include Ballers with Dwayne Johnson and Bloodlines with Sissy Spacek. Look for him in the movies Christmas in Pine Valley and Just My Type. When not acting he is a local Realtor and lucky husband of Mrs. Lovett.
MARY ANNE M cKERROW (Mrs. Lovett) last appeared at TNP as Donna in Mamma Mia! Past favorite TNP credits include Momma Rose/Gypsy, Madame Thénardier/Les Misérables, Jolene/Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Audrey/Little Shop of Horrors. Mary Anne is really happy to be performing again with her husband Johnson! CB - show me your ship face.
SYDNEY MIXON (Female Swing/Assistant to the Choreographer) is thrilled to serve as the assistant to the director/choreographer for Sweeney Todd at The Naples Players. Being part of such a darkly brilliant and emotionally rich production has been a deeply rewarding experience. Immense thanks
to Dawn for the incredible opportunity to work alongside her and for being such a generous and inspiring mentor throughout this process. The entire cast and creative team have brought unparalleled talent and dedication to the stage, and it’s been a true privilege to learn from and collaborate with them. Sydney is sincerely grateful for this opportunity and looks forward to what’s ahead in the rest of the season at TNP.
ADLER MONPREMIER (Ensemble) is glad to be back in Naples and to be a part of Sweeney Todd . Now a student at Florida Atlantic University studying Theatre, Adler has always had a profound love for the performing arts and considers TNP a second home. He would like to give a huge thanks to his family and friends who have all supported him in his musical theatre journey for the past couple of years. His most recent credits include Ensemble/42nd Street, Claude Frollo/The Hunchback of Notre Dame Teen, Choir/The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Ensemble/Newsies, and Brother Jeremiah/ Something Rotten! Teen.
MATIAS PISCOYA (Tobias) is honored to be part of Sweeney Todd and grateful for the opportunity to perform alongside such a talented cast at The Naples Players. At 11 years old, Matias continues to grow his love for musical theatre through each new experience. He was most recently seen as Ralphie Parker in A Christmas Story: The Musical , a role that was especially meaningful to him. Past performances with TNP also include Zack Mooneyham/ School of Rock and Chip/Beauty and the Beast JR . Matias is excited to take on this challenging role in his first Sondheim production and thanks his directors, coaches, castmates, and family for their constant support. He hopes you enjoy the show!
THOMAS RICHARDSON (Ensemble) has been performing with The Naples Players since he was 6 years old. His favorite roles with TNP include Robin/Something Rotten!, Ensemble/42nd Street, and The Old Man/A Christmas Story: The Musical He is so grateful for the continued support of his friends and family! Go Team Paula!
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BRITTANY RINGSDORE (Ensemble) is very happy to be back at The Naples Players for the 2nd time! Other credits include: King Herod/Jesus Christ Superstar, Constance/Ride The Cyclone, Columbia/The Rocky Horror Show, and Mrs Wormwood/ Matilda .
ISABELLA ROSATO (Ensemble) is so excited to be performing in her first show with The Naples Players! A Naples native, Isabella fell in love with the world of live theatre at Naples Performing Arts Center and has continued her pursuit with student organizations at UF, where she hopes to pursue a double BA in Theatre and English. Her recent credits include Mark Antony/Julius Caesar, Gertrude/ Hamlet, Mrs. Phelps/Matilda , Patrice/13: The Musical . Isabella wants to thank the whole family at NPAC for everything she knows, TNP for welcoming her with open arms for her first adult production, and of course her family for their continued love and support.
AVERY ROSCHEK (Ensemble) is thrilled to be in Sweeney Todd! She is a current sophomore at Emerson College in Boston majoring in communication sciences and disorders. Avery is so excited to return to TNP’s stage this summer with this cast and production team. She also wants to send a message to her sister: I love you, Emme <3
KELLY ROSSBERG (The Beadle) was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and earned his BFA at the University of Cincinnati-CCM. After school, he moved around working and acting, from NYC to North Florida, then Salt Lake City and Denver. Now living in Naples, Kelly couldn’t be happier to have planted roots. Favorite roles include Caleb/The Whipping Man, Black Stache/Peter and the Starcatcher, Galahad/Spamalot, Chebutykin/ Three Sisters, Greta/Bent, Jake/27 Wagons Full of Cotton, The Beadle/Sweeney Todd , and Robert/ Boeing Boeing!. To Vanessa, thank you for being the love of my life.
GRANT SALESE (Ensemble) has been performing since he was 12 years old. His love of theatre started when he was in his middle school’s production
of The Wizard of Oz . Ever since, he has been in countless musicals and is working towards his BFA in Musical Theatre at Florida Southern College where he is about to enter his senior year. Some of his credits include Mark Anthony/A Chorus Line (Sabrina’s Encore Productions), Hanschen Rilow/ Spring Awakening (FSC), and Ensemble/Pippin (FSC).
MATT SCHWABAUER (Ensemble) is excited to be joining the cast of Sweeney Todd. Recent TNP credits include Howard Wagner/Death of a Salesman, Ken Gorman/Rumors, Pat Denning/42nd Street, Dr. Chumley/Harvey, George Bailey/It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play, Ensemble/The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Captain Von Trapp/The Sound of Music. Other notable past roles include Charlie Martin/On Golden Pond (Southside Theatre Guild), Algernon Moncrieff/The Importance of Being Earnest (Seachange Theatre Company) and Edgar/King Lear (Cape Ann Shakespeare Troupe). He hopes you enjoy your time in 1840s London.
MALENA TUCKER (Ensemble) is an incoming senior attending First Baptist Academy and is thrilled to be in this production of Sweeney Todd Malena was most recently seen in Hadestown Teen and as Elizabeth/Young Frankenstein at TNP. Previous performances include Dorothy Brock/42nd Street Teen, Hodel/Fiddler on the Roof, Maria/ The Sound of Music, Godmother/Cinderella , and Dorothy/The Wizard of Oz . Malena is grateful to her family and friends for their love and support. A special thank you to TNP staff and crew for this opportunity. Being on stage expressing herself through musical theatre is a reminder that God is good. She gives all glory and honor to Him. Enjoy the show!
ASEEM UPADHYAY (Ensemble) is excited to return to TNP after playing Glenn Cooper/Rumors last season. He was most recently seen as Jesus/ Jesus Christ Superstar at The Lab (Fort Myers). Other notable credits include Captain Phoebus/ The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Bo Decker/Bus Stop, Lyman Sanderson/Harvey, Charles Bingley/Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, and
Simon/The Game’s Afoot, among others. Additionally, he has acted in multiple short films and is a local singer-songwriter. Delighted to be surrounded by an uber-talented cast and crew, he thanks his family back home in India for their unending support. He hopes you enjoy this Sondheim classic and always keep your razors sharp! IG: @justameesa
ALESSA VAZQUEZ (Ensemble) is a 17-year-old high school senior with a deep passion for theatre and music. She’s honored to return to the stage in another TNP Adult Production. Over the years, Alessa has embraced a variety of roles, including Belle/Beauty and the Beast JR , Gabriella Montez/High School Musical , Rosalie Mullins/ School of Rock, Ensemble/A Christmas Story: The Musical , and Fate 1 in Hadestown: Teen Edition This year, she’s also proud to serve as the Publicity Manager for the first generation of the Student Leadership Council at TNP Academy. After an
exciting summer of performances, Alessa will be heading to Lynn University to pursue a degree in marketing. Want to see what our incredible student performers are up to? Follow along at @tnp-academy
JACK WELD (Ensemble) is excited to be in Sweeney Todd for the third time, having performed in it in 2000 in Maryland (first musical ever performed!) in the ensemble and 2023 in Fort Myers as the Beadle. Recently seen at TNP as the narrator Jean Shepherd in A Christmas Story: The Musical and in the ensemble of Man of La Mancha , other shows performed at TNP include Les Misérables, The Producers, Young Frankenstein, My Fair Lady, The Music Man, Guys and Dolls, She Loves Me, Mary Poppins, and Much Ado About Nothing. Jack works as a corporate travel agent during the day and enjoys travel, history, Shakespeare, and of course, theatre! This show is dedicated to the memory of his mother who saw him perform in Sweeney Todd 25 years ago.
MOLLIE BERMAN
Costume Designer
COLE BUTCHER Stage Manager
SHERLAY CAJUSTE
Assistant Stage Manager
ALLY DOEDERLEIN
Assistant Stage Manager
CHARLES FORNARA Music Director/Conductor
DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA Director/Choreographer
MARIA HERNANDEZ Assistant Stage Manager
AMY HUGHES Props Designer
TAYLOR MATTHEWS Assistant Stage Manager
ABBY MAY Lighting Designer
MARY ANNE McKERROW
Costume Designer
Sound Designer
MIKE SANTOS Scenic Designer
STEPHEN SONDHEIM Music and Lyrics
STANISIC Assistant Stage Manager
MOLLIE BERMAN (Costume Designer) After graduating with her MFA from FSU, Mollie joined the creative team for Disney Parks Live Entertainment as well as freelanced as a designer in the Orlando area. Previous TNP design credits include Man of La Mancha; A Christmas Story: The Musical; Rumors; Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!; The Fantasticks; The Marvelous Wonderettes; The Sound of Music; Mary Poppins; Blithe Spirit; The Wedding Singer; Footloose; Yours, Truly; Bye Bye Birdie; and She Loves Me. She has designed for TheatreWorks Florida, Mad Cow Theatre and Florida State University. Mollie has previously worked at Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre, Olney Theatre Center, Williamstown Theatre Festival and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company. She would like to thank her friends, family, and husband Reece for their unending support and encouragement.
COLE BUTCHER (Stage Manager) is in his eleventh season with The Naples Players. Previous SM credits with TNP include 42nd Street, It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Mary Poppins, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, The Wedding Singer, Footloose, Yours, Truly, She Loves Me, Mamma Mia!, Guys and Dolls, Chicago, The Music Man, Sister Act, My Fair Lady, The Rocky Horror Show, Catch Me If You Can, Young Frankenstein, Something’s Afoot, Legally Blonde, Oklahoma, Noises Off, Gypsy, and Moon Over Buffalo.
SHERLAY CAJUSTE (Assistant Stage Manager) was born and raised in Naples, FL. She returned home in 2022 after graduating from FSU, eager to delve further into the film and theatre world and found The Naples Players. Having lived here her whole life, she did not know this wonderful community theatre was in her vicinity. Sherlay immediately signed up as a volunteer and her first show was Blithe Spirit where she met the kindest and most amazing community she could ask for. She couldn’t stop coming back after that. After a couple years of trying out different roles backstage, Sherlay finally mustered up the courage to take the stage management class offered by TNP. She is now joining
Sweeney Todd as an ASM hoping to work her way to being a Stage Manager.
ALLY DOEDERLEIN (Assistant Stage Manager) is a senior at Michigan State University pursuing a BFA in Stage Management and a BA in Business Management. Some favorite productions at MSU include Spring Awakening (Assistant Stage Manager), Bright Star (Assistant Music Director), and Young Playwrights Festival (Showcaller). She would like to thank her friends from afar for their unwavering support. Ally is excited to spend her summer with The Naples Players!
CHARLES FORNARA (Music Director/Conductor), Artistic Director of Music, made his professional musical theatre debut as the Beadle in Sweeney Todd 34 years ago in Hilton Head, SC, directed by former TNP Artistic Director Dallas Dunnagan, and had the honor of playing Sweeney himself at TheatreZone here in Naples. He has music directed nearly 200 productions, including, at TNP: Man of La Mancha, A Christmas Story: The Musical, 42nd Street, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Something Rotten!, Mary Poppins, Gentleman’s Guide, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, The Rocky Horror Show, Catch Me If You Can, The Spitfire Grill, Les Misérables, and many others, as well as 30 teen productions for TNP Academy (formerly known as KidzAct). Also in Naples for TheatreZone, he has music directed nearly 40 shows including Ghost, Rock of Ages, Bridges of Madison County, Legs Diamond, Sweet Smell of Success, Grand Hotel and Hair. Originally from Providence, RI, Chas conducted Jim Steinman and Roman Polanski’s Dance of the Vampires in Stuttgart, and has taught and coached singers all over the US and Germany. A proud member of Actors’ Equity, he has appeared in almost 100 musicals, operas and concerts. Much love to his beautiful wife, Dawn, and a big thank you to this brilliant orchestra, and to the sound team for making it work so gloriously!
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DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA (Director/Choreographer), Artistic Director of Dance, is a native of New York and has served as director and choreographer for TNP’s A Christmas Story: The Musical, 42nd Street, The Marvelous Wonderettes, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Something Rotten!, Mary Poppins, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, Sister Act, The Rocky Horror Show, Catch Me If You Can, Legally Blonde and The Spitfire Grill , among others; and with TNP Academy (formerly known as KidzAct) for many productions, including Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Hairspray, Disney’s Camp Rock, Les Misérables and CATS . She has choreographed many shows for TNP, including Man of La Mancha, A Christmas Carol, Gentleman’s Guide, All Shook Up, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Cabaret. As a performer, she has been seen in the National Tours of 42nd Street, Seussical the Musical, Anything Goes and Grease. A proud member of Actors’ Equity, she has been seen in Naples in TheatreZone’s Sweeney Todd as Beggar Woman, Lucy/ Jekyll & Hyde, Stepping Out with Donna McKechnie, Kiki/Legs Diamond and Hair, among others. Other recent roles include Sheila/A Chorus Line, Sally Bowles, Velma Kelly, Bombalurina/Cats and Ulla/The Producers. Love to husband Charlie and her family.
MARIA HERNANDEZ (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to continue her journey behind the scenes at The Naples Players. Her previous crew experience at TNP includes A Christmas Story: The Musical and Man of La Mancha . She is grateful to be part of such a talented production team and looks forward to more opportunities to support the magic on stage.
AMY HUGHES (Props Designer) is excited to be propping such an amazing production. Amy is mostly known for her credits on stage in shows such as Marian/The Music Man and Mona/Chicago. She is excited to step into the role of a lifetime as the properties director for The Naples Players and looks forward to an amazingly creative future.
TAYLOR MATTHEWS (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to be going into her second season as the Company Stage Manager at The Naples Players. After graduating from Western Michigan University with a BFA in Stage Management, she worked as the Stage Management Intern for the 2023–24 season. Her previous stage management credits at TNP include A Christmas Story: The Musical, Clue: On Stage, and The Marvelous Wonderettes.
ABBY MAY (Lighting Designer) is very excited to return to The Naples Players (The Cake, The Sound of Music) with this production of Sweeney Todd! Abby is a New York City-based Lighting Designer who travels the country working in dance, theatre, opera, and events. Selected credits include: A Chorus Line (LD, CSTC), Freedom Series (LD, Ailey II), Sound of Music International (Assoc. LD), Beauty and the Beast (LD), Into the Woods (LD), The Last Five Years (LD), and Saa Magni (LD, Ailey II). BBE. abbymayld.com
MARY ANNE M cKERROW (Costume Designer) is enjoying the task of assisting Mollie in the design of this production. She looks forward to transforming pieces of the existing design into costumes for the teen production. Favorite past show designs include the Academy’s productions of Moana JR, Into the Woods JR, Beauty and the Beast JR , and most recently Hadestown: Teen Edition.
JOSHUA D. REID (Sound Designer) [he/him] is a sound and systems designer based in New York City and has worked extensively on Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional and international productions, national tours, and sound system installations. Recent design selections include Legally Blonde (Theatre Calgary/Citadel Theatre), The Preacher’s Wife (Alliance Theatre), RENT (Stratford Festival), A Christmas Carol (Broadway; with Jefferson Mays, Tony Nomination, Outer Critics Circle Award, LA Ovation Award, LA Drama Critics Circle Award), Ragtime (Calgary Philharmonic), Million Dollar Quartet (Theatre Calgary), A Little Night Music (Arizona Opera), Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (National Tours), The Color Purple (National Tour), Girlfriend (The-
atreWorks Hartford, CT Critics Circle Award), Jerry Springer: The Opera (Signature Theatre), and A Time Like This (Carnegie Hall). Full credentials listed at ReidSoundDesign.com
MIKE SANTOS (Scenic Designer) is a graduate of Cazenovia College in Upstate New York and has been a Naples resident for over 22 years. Favorite scenic designs include The Drowsy Chaperone, The Rocky Horror Show, Mamma Mia!, Guys and Dolls, Mary Poppins, and Hadestown: Teen Edition. A huge thank you to the shop volunteers for doing what they always do! And to his wife, Judith, for always being his everything :-)
STEPHEN SONDHEIM (1930-2021) wrote the music and lyrics for Saturday Night (1954), A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum (1962), Anyone Can Whistle (1964), Company (1970), Follies (1971), A Little Night Music (1973), The Frogs (1974), Pacific Overtures (1976), Sweeney Todd (1979), Merrily We Roll Along (1981), Sunday In The Park With George (1984), Into The Woods (1987), Assassins (1991), Passion (1994), Road Show (2008) and HERE WE ARE (2023), as well as the lyrics for West Side Story (1957), Gypsy (1959), Do I Hear A Waltz? (1965) and additional lyrics for Candide (1973). Side By Side By Sondheim (1976), Marry Me A Little (1981), You’re Gonna Love Tomorrow (1983), Putting It Together (1993/99), Moving On (2001), Sondheim On Sondheim (2010) and Old Friends (2023) are anthologies of his work as composer and lyricist. For films, he composed the scores of Stavisky (1974), co-composed the score for Reds (1981), and wrote songs for Dick Tracy (1990). He wrote songs for the television production “Evening Primrose” (1966), co-authored the film “The Last of Sheila” (1973) and the play Getting Away With Murder (1996) and provided incidental music for the plays The Girls of Summer (1956), Invitation To A March (1961), Twigs (1971) and The Enclave (1973).
He won the Tony Award for Best Score for Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and Passion, all of which won the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award, as did
Pacific Overtures and Sunday In The Park With George, the latter also receiving the Pulitzer Prize for Drama (1985).
Stephen Sondheim was born and raised in New York City. He graduated from Williams College, winning the Hutchinson Prize for Music Composition, after which he studied theory and composition with Milton Babbitt. He served on the Council of the Dramatists Guild, the national association of playwrights, composers and lyricists, and served as its president from 1973 to 1981. In 1983 he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters and in 1990 was appointed the first Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre at Oxford University. He was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 1993, the National Medal of Arts in 1996, the MacDowell Medal in 2013 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. His collected lyrics with attendant essays have been published in two volumes: “Finishing the Hat” (2010) and “Look, I Made a Hat” (2011).
In 2010 the Broadway theater formerly known as Henry Miller’s Theatre was renamed in his honor, and in 2019 he became the first living artist to have a theatre named in his honor on Shaftesbury Avenue when the refurbished Queen’s Theatre in London’s West End was renamed the Sondheim Theatre to commemorate his 90th birthday, by Sir Cameron Mackintosh.
MILA STANISIC (Assistant Stage Manager) is a current third-year student at the University of Florida. While this is her first time volunteering for a specific production at The Naples Players, she previously helped during last season’s Kizzie Theater productions. Involved in musical theatre from a young age, she has worked in many departments from props, costumes, and set design, to even performing in her high school’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Ensemble). She would like to thank the staff at The Naples Players for this wonderful opportunity and hopes you enjoy the show!
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HUGH WHEELER (Author) was a novelist, playwright and screen writer. He wrote more than thirty mystery novels under the pseudonyms Q. Patrick and Patrick Quentin, and four of his novels were transformed into films: Black Widow, Man in the Net, The Green-Eyed Monster and The Man with Two Wives. For films he wrote the screenplays for Travels with My Aunt, Something for Everyone, A Little Night Music, and Nijinsky. His plays include Big Fish, Little Fish (1961), Look: We’ve Come Through (1961) and We Have Always Lived in the Castle (1966, adapted from the Shirley Jackson novel), he co-authored with Joseph Stein the book for a new production of the 1919 musical Irene (1973), wrote the books for A Little Night
Music (1973), a new production of Candide (1973), Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street (1979, based on a version of the play by Christopher Bond), and Meet Me in St. Louis (adapted from the 1949 M-G-M musical), contributed additional material for the musical Pacific Overtures (1976), and wrote a new adaptation of the Kurt Weill opera Silverlake, which was directed by Harold Prince at the New York Opera. He received Tony and Drama Desk Awards for A Little Night Music, Candide and Sweeney Todd . Prior to his death in 1987 Mr. Wheeler was working on two new musicals, Bodo and Fu Manchu, and a new adaptation of The Merry Widow.
Music Theatre International (MTI) is one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies, granting theatres from around the world the rights to perform the greatest selection of musicals from Broadway and beyond. Founded in 1952 by composer Frank Loesser and orchestrator Don Walker, MTI is a driving force in advancing musical theatre as a vibrant and engaging art form.
MTI works directly with the composers, lyricists and book writers of these musicals to provide official scripts, musical materials and dynamic theatrical resources to over 100,000 professional, community and school theatres in the US and in over 150 countries worldwide.
MTI is particularly dedicated to educational theatre, and has created special collections to meet the needs of various types of performers and audiences. MTI’s Broadway Junior® shows are 30- and 60-minute musicals for performance by elementary and middle school-aged performers, while MTI’s School Editions are musicals annotated for performance by high school students.
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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.
JamieLynn Bucci
Jody Cameron
Jillian Keith
Hannah Klein
Sydney Miller
Gwen Bettini
Brian Boland
Jules Branche
Rex Burns
Joseph Byrne
Braxton Cabrera
Jack Cole
Christian Conn
Kelsey Coss
Jordan Crawford
Scott Davis
Gia Provinzino
Patricia Puia
Matthew Schwabauer
David Shaffer
Vanessa Tarabocchia
Christian Dinsmore
Victoria Duck
Jake Fattibene
Frankie Federico
Joseph Femia
Marcus Fuller
Sarah Gamblin
Austin Gardner
Jordan Gersbach
Carolina Grau
Riley Hart
Nancy Hayer
Jeannine Hedberg
Amy Hughes
Damian Ivanov
Ashley Kosten
Olivia LaChance
Jennifer Mance
Michael Troop
Aseem Upadhyay
Lorelai Vega
Jack Weld
Elizabeth Marcantonio
Eduardo Marin
Lila Mastro
Alex Minarik
Adler Monpremier
Kelly Rossberg
Roseann Ruggiero
Judy Scribner
Jean Snyder
Fredley Sylvain
Kenny Tran
Ciarán Welch
Come audition for a show! All of our performers are volunteers, with each cast being a mix of veterans, newcomers, and novices.
Fly rail, audio assistant, backstage crew, spotlight operator, board operator... the behind-the-scenes opportunities at TNP are endless!
Assist with repairs, alterations, sewing, ironing, steaming, buttons, hems... you name it! Costumes for every performance are made on site!
Lend a hand with set construction, demolition, painting, and the occasional prop fabrication. Get your hands dirty and have fun doing it!
Greet patrons, scan tickets, work concessions, hand out programs, and escort patrons to their seats. Be the first friendly face patrons see and experience!
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!
ALAN JAFFE President
DENNY GLASS Vice President
OTTO IMMEL Secretary
BOB UEK Treasurer
PEGGY MONSON
Immediate Past President
TED BILL
BOB BRADY
GEORGE D’ANGELO
JOAN DiLILLO
TNP STAFF (ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
BRYCE ALEXANDER Executive Artistic Director/CEO
MOLLIE BERMAN Director of Costumes
EMILY BETTINI House Manager
JULES BRANCHE Volunteer Manager
COLE BUTCHER Artistic Director of Production/ Internship Director
PAMELA LARKIN CARUSO Director of Volunteer Advancement
CHRISTIAN CONN Front of House Associate
JOHN COOPER Assistant Box Office Manager
CAITLYNN CRAWFORD Food & Beverage Manager
KENZIE CURRIE Chief of Staff
DOREN DANIS Chief Financial Officer
JAMES DUGGAN Artistic Associate
PHILLIP FAZIO Artistic Director
CINDY FINEGAN Front of House Associate
BRUCE GRAEV
ROBIN BACHE GRAY
TERRY LIBBY
PAT POLLOK
KELLEY GERAGHTY PRICE
NANCY RIBORDY
DEBORAH SMITH
CHARLES FORNARA Artistic Director of Music
DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA Artistic Director of Dance
AMY HUGHES Props Director
LUKE JACONIS Director of Patron Services
RACHEL KALSKI Front of House Associate
LANDON LIBBEY Front of House Associate
TAYLOR MATTHEWS Company Stage Manager
MARY ANNE McKERROW Resident Costume Designer
JULIE MEDRANO Assistant Director of Education
DAN MILLER Assistant House Manager
SUMMER PLISKOW Director of Arts Access
CRAIG PRICE Director of Community Enrichment
JEN PRICE Director of Education
DAN RAMIREZ Front of House Associate
CHRIS RILEY Director of Lighting
GLENN VANGOLEN
GINNY VERAS
KAT ZAGEL
BETH PETRUNOFF City Liaison
ELIZABETH W. ROUNTREE, CFRE Director of Advancement
DAYNE SABATOS Lead Draper/Costume Shop Foreman
MIKE SANTOS Resident Scenic Designer & Artist
GAETJENS (SCOTT) SIMEON Accounting Assistant
ESTHER SNYDER Executive Assistant to the CEO
BRADLEY VAN HOUTEN Director of Sound
JASON WAGAMAN Technical Director
2025 SUMMER INTERNS
KAMILA AVILA Costumes Intern
CAZ BUXTON Arts Access Intern
LEXI CAMINA Education Intern
ALLY DOEDERLEIN Stage Management Intern
KENZ HODGE Scenic Intern
NATHAN McWILLIAMS Lighting Intern
SADIE SCARDINO Education 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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