We are delighted to welcome you back to our highly regarded 5th Avenue South venue! The first phase of our recent $22 million transformation was completed swiftly and with minimal disruption to our programming, allowing us to continue engaging with our community through the arts while we temporarily relocated for Season 70.
Now that we are back home, I want to welcome you to tour our new facilities, meet our staff, and engage with our passionate and skilled volunteers. The volunteers you see on stage tonight are just a few of the many individuals who contribute to the success of TNP. This is your theater. Explore it, experience it, and should you feel compelled to - please support it. As a community theatre setting the stage for arts accessibility nationwide, we deeply appreciate your patronage and attendance at this evening’s performance.
Welcome home to SEASON 71 OUR MISSION
Dance, acting, and performance camps for ages 3 and up! 1- and 2-week sessions run Monday - Friday with sessions starting: June 16 | July 7 | July 21 All ages and abilities are welcome and need-based scholarships are available. Learn more at NaplesPlayers.org or contact
OUR 72 ND SEASON
JUN 25-JUL 27
VENGEANCE SERVED WITH SHARP WIT, SONG, & DANCE IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
OCT 01-OCT 19
TEN STRANGERS, ONE DEADLY ISLAND MYSTERY IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
OCT 15-NOV 09
GENIUS MEETS PASSION IN VICTORIAN TIMES
IN THE PRICE THEATER
NOV 19-DEC 21
A CHERISHED CLASSIC WITH A MUSICAL TWIST
IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
JAN 14-FEB 15
FAKE BOYFRIENDS + FAMILY DINNERS = REAL CHAOS
IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
FEB 04-MAR 01
BRILLIANCE AND BRAVERY MEET IN MYSTERY
IN THE PRICE THEATER
MAR 11-APR 12
CLOCK IN FOR A MUSICAL REVOLUTION
IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
APR 01-APR 26
UNTOLD VOICES OF WARTIME WOMEN
IN THE PRICE THEATER
MAY 06-MAY 24 A WITTY AND TIMELESS TALE OF LOVE
IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
of Shows Included SEE
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.
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
INCLUSIVE CLASSES @
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.
IN THE COMMUNITY
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
CONNECT YOUR OWN ASSISTED LISTENING
DE VICE
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.
STEP 1
Scan this QR code to connect to our hearing assist WIFI network.
STEP 2
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.
SPOTLIGHT ON BETSY GREENBLATT MITCH FRANK &
When Betsy Greenblatt and Mitch Frank moved to Naples in 2020, they were searching for sunshine, simplicity—and maybe something new to share. What they found was community, creativity, and connection through The Naples Players.
The couple, married for over 40 years, are performing together in The Hallelujah Girls, their first Mainstage production at TNP. Though both had theatrical roots—Mitch from high school and college, Betsy from law school reader’s theater—they didn’t initially realize they shared a passion for the stage.
“We met through family connections,” Betsy recalled. “My mother mentioned I was single, Mitch’s uncle said the same. Mitch got my number… and waited six months to call me!” she laughed. “Our first date was Dracula the Musical. We were engaged three months later.”
While raising their family in Montclair, New Jersey, Betsy joined their local community theatre after their son was born. When she wasn’t cast, she worked backstage—eventually landing roles. Mitch returned to the stage after a 15year break, and they began performing together, one or two shows a year.
After retiring from legal careers, they relocated to Naples. A casting call from The Naples Players reignited their theater journey. Though Mitch’s first TNP role in It’s a Wonderful Life was postponed due to COVID, it marked the beginning of a new chapter.
Soon, both joined TNP’s Readers Theatre and its Traveling Road Show—bringing performances directly to senior communities across Naples.
“We take theatre to people who might not otherwise experience it,” Mitch said. “Some even join us in performing. It’s theatre as connection—and as service.”
Mitch plays one of the few male roles in the show. “It’s about women’s friendships—how they support each other through life’s highs and lows,” he said. “It’s warm, funny, and full of heart.”
Though their children and grandchildren won’t be in the audience, Betsy and Mitch say the Naples theatre community has become their extended family.
“When we arrived at TNP, we thought it was a professional company,” Betsy said. “The theatre is incredible, and the people are even better. Passionate, welcoming, serious about the work—it’s a gift to be part of it.”
, Betsy plays Nita, a
“We’re not into pickleball,” Mitch added. “This is what we love. It’s a lot of work, but when the audience laughs or claps, that’s the reward.”
Through TNP, Betsy and Mitch have found more than just a stage—they’ve found belonging.
VOLUNTEERING @ TNP
DEPARTMENTS AND ACTIVITIES FOR FRIENDLY FOLKS
OF ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
PERFORMERS
Come audition for a show! All of our performers are volunteers, with each cast being a mix of veterans, newcomers, and novices.
BACKSTAGE CREW
Fly rail, audio assistant, backstage crew, spotlight operator, board operator... the behind-the-scenes opportunities at TNP are endless!
COSTUME SHOP
Assist with repairs, alterations, sewing, ironing, steaming, buttons, hems... you name it! Costumes for every performance are made on site!
SCENE SHOP
Lend a hand with set construction, demolition, painting, and the occasional prop fabrication. Get your hands dirty and have fun doing it!
USHERS
Greet patrons, scan tickets, work concessions, hand out programs, and escort patrons to their seats. Be the first friendly face patrons see and experience!
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!
VISUALIZING
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.
PERFORMANCES
100%
175 performances
25,783 tickets sold 85% of all shows sold out held off-site due to renovations
EDUCATION & ACCESS
6,322 participants
46 community partners
276 Arts Access classes
1,876 hours of instruction
VOLUNTEERS
30+
590 volunteers
50,716 hours logged positions for volunteers both on and off stage
OUR IMPACT
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%)
CELEBRATING OUR DONORS
MARCH 1, 2025 - APRIL 15, 2025
Please join us in thanking these donors who gave between March 1, 2025 and April 15, 2025. Gifts made today will be celebrated in a future issue of TNP Backstage.
Fred Acker
Susan & Bruce Armstrong
Mary Lou Barnett
Roy Bateman
Jessie L. Bates
Anne Behring
Anthony & Maryanne Beirne
Larry Benedict
Donald & Linda Blauvelt
Lewis & Renie Bognar
Jennifer Bradley
James Y. Brame
Richard & Diane Breithaupt
Kris Brown
Jane & Gus Buenz
Jorge L. Cardenas
John & Linda Cardillo
Carol Carter
Francis Casagrande
Diane D. Cerra
Wayne Cimons
Ed & Sandi Cleary
Joan Conroy
David & Carla Corban
John & Caryl Corbett
Morton Corn
Rhonda J. Curry
Thomas & Susan Dapp
David Corban Architects
Diane & Sid Davis
Sam & Betsy Dicapua
Terrance A. Doyle
Linda Duncan
Rebecca Earney
David J. Eastaugh
Glen Engelmann
Tom & Patricia Erickson
Kerri Ervin
Catherine Flynn
Ken Foley
Focus Mission Foundation
Brooks & Joan Fortune Family Foundation
Angela Gagauf
Patricia T. Girard
Wayne Goldberg
Shelley Gothard
Bruce Gray & Robin Bache Gray
Teresa A. Gusmus
Adele A. Hackerman
Edward & Kathryn Hardig
Marcena Hill
Patti & James Holden
Debbie R. Iamarino
Bill & Helen Iten
Sherri Jablon
Alan & Liz Jaffe
Pat & Steve Jean
Lowell Johnson
Charles Johnston
Russell Jones
John Kamp
Marcia M. Kelley
Carla Keogh
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.
William Kiley
Patricia Knipper
Sandra & Kim Kostere
George & Patricia Kraus
Nancy Kumskis
Terry Kurth
Joan Kuzniar
Christine Lewis
Phyllis J. Liebman
Windmill Capital LLC
Quarles & Brady LLP
Michael Lyster
Randi L. MacKeil
Marilyn Marino
Rosemary Marmorato
Jane McCarthy
Barbara McEntee
Len McIlvennan
Dana McIlwain
Patrick McMahon
Deborah Miesel
Jeanne Minorini
Joseph & Krys Mortellaro
Nancy K. Owens
RECENT DONOR APPRECIATION
Deanne Pastor
Joseph & Vicki Pelikan
Elizabeth Pircio
Bill Shade & John Pochopin
Sharon Poole
Judy Pooler
Frances A. Portnof
Frederic Pratt
William R. Preston
Tom Price
Dennis Quinn
Sreepada Rao
Alice Reynolds
Sherwin & Joan Ritter
Joseph Rocco
Stephen Romanelli
Barbara Rossetti
Micah Rucker
Daniel & Lyn Scanlon
Michael Schroeck
Patricia Scoville
Judy Scribner
Kevin & Joanne Shannon
Diana L Shoenbach
Menahem Philemon & Gaetjens S. Simeon
Robert & Kathleen Slater
Gary & Sharon Southern
Joseph Stinson
Lynn Sundall
Norman & Ilona Toback
Jack & Joan Toren
Robert W. Uek
Joan E. Vazakas
Brian & Tami Walker
Donna Wyland
Bruce Yarde
Keith Zafren
The Naples Daily News is proud to support The
Get our free Daily Briefing email newsletter and stay informed on local news and events around Naples. Scan the QR code with your phone to sign up with your email address. Or go to naplesnews.com and search “newsletters” to join.
The Naples Airport Authority celebrates the creativity and talent of The Naples Players through its sponsorship of the 2024-25 season.
As a community partner, we’re committed to being a good neighbor by promoting a voluntary, overnight curfew to help preserve the quality of life we all value.
Thank
THE HALLELUJAH GIRLS
BY
JESSIE JONES, NICHOLAS HOPE & JAMIE WOOTEN
DIRECTOR
JULIE EWING
SCENIC DESIGNER
JASON WAGAMAN
SOUND DESIGNER
STAGE MANAGER ANNA TIPTON
COSTUME DESIGNER
GWEN BETTINI
PROPERTIES DESIGNER
AMY HUGHES
EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
BRYCE ALEXANDER
LIGHTING DESIGNER
MARIAH CRUTCHFIELD
DRAMATURGS
SEAN McGINLEY KIZZIE THEATER | MAY 7-25, 2025
RICKI BAKER & PATRICIA PUIA
SPECIAL THANKS: LINH FIGUEREDO • HUE SALON & DAY SPA • SPA 41 • PAUL EWING • CHARLES FORNARA
THE HALLELUJAH GIRLS is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection. (www.dramatists.com).
Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
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).
COSTUME CONSTRUCTION & CARE ................................................ STEPHANIE FOWLE, BARB LAUB, SANDY L o PRESTI, JOAN LAUGHLIN, CHELSEA PYTLIK, BETH RATHEY, JEAN SNYDER
SCENIC PAINTING & CONSTRUCTION ................... IAN COCKLIN, SYLVIA CONGER, ALIX CUNNINGHAM, ALDO D’ACUNZO, ED EZRINE, JOHN FELICIANO, JOE FEMIA, PAUL GALLOWAY, JIM GAYEUSKI, TAMMY HARRIS, DAVID JOHNSON, SANDY KEELER, JOHN LANE, STEVE LEE, RUSS LOYET, RAY MARASCO, EMMANUEL MARTINEZ, BOB RATH, TRACY ROSEN, LINDA RUSSELL-THORNE, TODD SCOVILLE, JEFF SMITH, WAYNE STRANGWAYS, SYDNIE SWIFT, MARY LOU TAYLOR, MICHAEL TROOP, MARK VOUTYRAS, DOUG WALCK, MJ WANN, FRED WILLIG, JOSH WOOD
ACTS & SCENES
PLACE: Spa-Dee-Dah!, a day spa Eden Falls, Georgia, USA
ACT 1
SCENE 1: A hot afternoon, July 3rd
SCENE 2: Friday afternoon, the day before Halloween
SCENE 3: Friday afternoon, a week before Christmas
ACT 2
SCENE 1: Friday afternoon, late January
SCENE 2: Friday afternoon, the day before Valentine’s Day
SCENE 3: A hot afternoon, July 3rd
Playwrights Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten have given us a unique comedic play that revolves around a group of women in a small town who gather at an abandoned church turned day spa to support each other through various personal challenges. Their almost exclusive use of insults as humor keeps the story moving and keeps the audience totally focused because we’re never sure what’s coming next.
In addition to being hilarious, the insults often reveal much about the personalities and relationships of the characters. The playful banter between them gives us a glimpse at how close they are and have been to one another. These are long-standing, loving friendships and long-standing friendships who can tease and ‘rag on’ one another freely!
The catty quips and wry observations generate laughter and lighten the mood. The humor in these exchanges can be sharp and witty, providing a contrast to more serious moments in the play. This balance between them helps maintain an engaging and entertaining atmosphere.
Insults also serve to intensify the conflicts between characters that are later resolved in a humorous or heartfelt manner. This dynamic adds tension and drama to the storyline, making the eventual resolutions more satisfying.
Through humor, the play even touches on social issues and stereotypes. Insults can highlight societal norms and expectations, allowing the audience to reflect on them in a light-hearted way.
The effectiveness of insults as humor in The lies in their delivery and context. The characters’ familiarity with each other allows a kind of humor that might not be as effective in other settings. The play uses insults to build a sense of community and belonging among the characters and to engage the audience with relatable and laugh-out-loud moments.
The Naples Players – SWFL’s Favorite Local Theatre.
Photo: Naples Creative.
THE MANY faces OF Friendship
The Hallelujah Girls shines a bright light on the friendships among its characters. Each relationship is unique and is essential for the characters’ emotional well-being, personal growth, and resilience.
Here are some distinctive kinds of friendships portrayed:
LONG-STANDING FRIENDSHIP
The bond between Sugar Lee and Carlene has withstood the test of time. Despite their differences and occasional disagreements, their deep understanding of each other provides a foundation for mutual support and loyalty.
Nita and Mavis’ shared history lets them communicate effortlessly and provide each other with unwavering support. Their shared experiences create a strong sense of camaraderie.
SUPPORTIVE FRIENDSHIP
Sugar Lee, the protagonist, often assumes a leadership role in the group, offering encouragement and motivation to her friends. Her ability to inspire and uplift others is central to their friendships.
Carlene’s pragmatism complements her sister Crystal’s whimsical personality. Carlene is the grounding influence juxtaposed with Crystal’s optimism. The balance helps both to navigate life’s challenges.
TRANSFORMATIONAL FRIENDSHIP
Nita’s interactions with her friends help her to shed her shell and gain confidence. The group support encourages her personal development and self-empowerment.
HUMOROUS FRIENDSHIP
Crystal’s quirky, humorous personality adds lightheartedness to the group’s dynamic. Her playful interactions often lead to laughter and joy. Was there a ‘class clown’ in your school days?
Mavis and Nita’s exchanges are filled with humor and playful teasing. Their friendship underscores how humor can be a vital part of emotional resilience and coping with life’s stresses.
CAST BIOS
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
KATHLEEN BALDINI
(Carlene) is so excited to be making her debut with TNP. She started her acting career many years ago and has a Drama degree from UNO and is a graduate from American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NY. She has performed lead roles in various professional theaters in New Orleans, New York and Florida. Two of her favorite roles include Cinderella and Catherine in The Foreigner. She has also appeared in TV shows and had a lead role in the film, Captiva . She is looking forward to being a part of many TNP productions in the future!
PATTI CAROLI (Bunny) is excited to bring out her inner villain as she comes “back home” to the TNP stage. Last season, Patti appeared in TNP’s production of Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!, a show she co-wrote with Carole Fenstermacher and Natalie King. Ever 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, The Savannah Sipping Society, Plaza Suite, Torch Song, and the one-woman play I’ll Eat You Last. Patti thanks Director Julie Ewing for casting her in this deliciously wicked role; the cast and crew for making The Hallelujah Girls an absolute joy to be part of; and Victor Caroli, her forever “without whom.”
MITCH FRANK (Bobby Dwayne) is thrilled to be back on the TNP stage, where he was last seen in It’s a Wonderful Life: The Radio Play. Mitch acted in NJ community theater for 35+ years, and since moving to Naples has appeared as Barney/Last of the Red Hot Lovers and Roy/Plaza Suite at ACT on Marco Island; and as Dr. Lyman/Bus Stop, Sam/The Cemetery Club, Mark/Beer for Breakfast, Peter/Slow Food , and Art/ Nuts at The Studio Players. Other favorite roles: George/Moon Over Buffalo, Ken/ Rumors, Gary/Noises Off, and Milt/Laughter on the 23rd Floor. Mitch is also involved with TNP Readers Theatre and Readers Theatre Road Show. Mitch would like to thank Julie for giving him this opportunity and his wife Betsy Greenblatt for all her love and support.
BETSY GREENBLATT (Nita) is beyond thrilled to make her debut on TNP’S main stage as Nita. Betsy is a member of TNP’S Readers Theatre Road Show which performs in community venues, and has also appeared in Readers Theatre at the Sugden Theater. Betsy was last seen as Jeannette in Last of the Red Hot Lovers at ACT on Marco Island. She also appeared on the Marco stage as Norma in Plaza Suite. Betsy has performed with The Studio Players as Ida/The Cemetery Club, Silda/Other Desert Cities, Irene/Slow Food , and the Judge/Nuts as well. Before moving to Naples, Betsy performed in NJ community theaters for 35+ years. Betsy would like to thank husband Mitch Frank (Bobby Dwayne) for his love and encouragement and Julie Ewing for casting her.
RUTH JOHNSON (Mavis) is pleased to return to TNP. Past roles here include Grandma Rosie/The Wedding Singer. Amanda/Southern Comforts, and oh, that table scene as Margy/The Dining Room. She celebrates over 50 years of acting and directing (30+ professionally). Career highlights include working with Broadway’s Mitzi Hamilton (A Chorus Line, Pippin), Ken Howard (The White Shadow, Murder She Wrote) and Kellie Martin (Life Goes On, ER). Special thanks to Julie for the role, the fabulous cast and crew for sharing their talents, my husband Al, our family by choice – and you, our audience, for your support.
KEVIN KENNEALLY (Porter) is happy to be part of this wonderful production. Favorite TNP Roles include: Abner Dillon/42nd Street, Clarence and others/It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play, Jacob Marley/A Christmas Carol , Mr. Maraczek/ She Loves Me, Judge Group/Miracle on 34th Street, Colonel Gilweather/Something’s Afoot, and Underling/The Drowsy Chaperone. Special thanks to Diane Davis for her teaching and insight, to Linda for her love and support, and to all involved, both onstage and off, for making this such an enjoyable experience!
JENNIFER MANCE (Sugar Lee) is originally from Oshawa, ON, Canada, and received her B.F.A in Acting and Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor, Ontario. She was an elementary teacher for 15 years before moving to Florida in 2022, and is now one of our TNP Academy instructors. She is thrilled to be “returning to the ‘South’” as Spa Dee Dah’s owner, Sugar Lee. Recent roles: Miss Shields/A Christmas Story, Maggie/42nd Street, and Mrs. Peacock/Clue: Onstage. When she is not performing, she is a busy theatre mom to Madison. She is forever grateful to Julie for giving her this opportunity to grow as an actor and it has truly been a pleasure working with this wonderful cast! Keep your eye out for her hubby, Brett, often behind the bar.
ESTHER
SNYDER (Crystal) is excited to test her quick change abilities, as well as resurrect her piano skills! Previous roles include Foley Artist/It’s A Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play, Edith/Blithe Spirit, and Annie Cannon/Silent Sky. She has enjoyed every moment spent with the rehearsal room bunch, especially the laughter. To the cast, crew, designers, and all the dedicated volunteers at TNP — thanks, y’all!
CREATIVE TEAM BIOS
GWEN BETTINI (Costume Designer) is thrilled to design costumes for The Naples Players once again, having previously worked on Almost, Maine earlier this season. Gwen is a retired small business owner who discovered her love for costume design while her children were in school, leading to 11 years as Costume Director for Warwick Valley Middle School in New York. Since moving to Naples in 2019, Gwen has embraced her passion by volunteering with TNP, beginning in August 2022. She enjoys collaborating with the creative and supportive crew in the costume shop, including Mollie, Dayne, Mary Anne, and director Julie, as well as the talented cast. Gwen is proud to work on a play that celebrates the themes of hope, change, and friendship among women in her age group. She thanks her husband Bill for his unwavering encouragement. Every day in the costume shop is an opportunity to learn something new, and Gwen truly cherishes the journey.
MARIAH CRUTCHFIELD
(Lighting Designer) is excited to be making her debut as a new designer for The Naples Players. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Theatre at Cottey College with a focus in Lighting Design and Playwrighting. This will be her third show in a professional setting and she’s looking forward to taking on the challenge.
JULIE EWING (Director) is happy to back at TNP for her third show and thrilled to be part of the first season in the newly renovated Kizzie Theater. For the last 35 years, she has worked in the Kansas City area as an actor, director, writer, and producer, with companies such as The Theatre in the Park, Olathe Civic Theatre, The Barn Players, Theatre For Young America, Leawood Stage Company and the American Heartland Theatre. Favorite stage projects have included Newsies, Bright Star and Children of Eden, as well as the feature-length film Spirit of the Season starring Ernest Borgnine. Julie is looking forward to more directing projects in SWFL, now that she and her husband Paul live in Naples. You can learn more about her at https://theatrejce.com/. Thank you to Bryce and the stellar team of creatives at TNP! Julie hopes you enjoy your time in Eden Falls with The Hallelujah Girls as much as she has!
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 so 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.
TERRY LIBBY (Assistant Stage Manager) is very excited to be back in this new role at The Naples Players. She has been involved in many productions here and at other local theaters, most recently playing Martha in The Naples Players production of The Game’s Afoot. Other previous credits include: Cassandra/Vanya, Sonia, Marsha and Spike; Delia/One Slight Hitch; Joveeta/A Doublewide Texas Christmas, and Professor Plum/Clue: Onstage. Terry is most grateful to her family, especially her husband Larry, for their limitless support and love.
SEAN McGINLEY (Sound Designer) is excited to be back at The Naples Players! Some of his favorite previous designs include Clue, The Game’s Afoot, and Blithe Spirit. Sean is currently based out of Central PA. He received his bachelor’s degree in music industry and recording technology from York College of Pennsylvania. His designs have been heard in Naples before at both TheatreZone and Gulfshore Playhouse. Sean has also worked at Gable Stage, Timberlake Playhouse, Maples Repertory Theatre, Theatre Workshop of Nantucket, and The Mac-Haydn Theatre, where he recently won a Berkie for best sound design. As always, Sean would like to thank Alivia and the rest of his family for their continued support of his dream. For more information on Sean please visit Seanmcginleysounddesign.com or follow @seansounds101
ANNA TIPTON (Stage Manager) has multiple TNP credits that include Assistant Stage Manager for The Play That Goes Wrong; Almost, Maine; 42nd Street ; and 42nd Street Teen, as well as running crew for Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat!. Anna is grateful for the opportunity to support this dedicated cast and creative team and would like to thank her family for their encouragement and support.
JASON WAGAMAN (Scenic Designer) graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology. This is his third season as the Technical Director at TNP. Originally from Minnesota, Jason is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to bring his craft to life in Naples, especially following the exciting transition to TNP’s newly renovated space. Having recently completed the setup of the new and improved scene shop, he is thrilled to be working in this fantastic facility, collaborating with an exceptional group of volunteers and staff whom he is proud to call friends. Jason would like to extend his deepest thanks to all the scenic volunteers for their tireless dedication in bringing this production—and many others—to life. Their hard work and passion have made him feel truly at home, both at TNP and in Naples.
Life in Naples Life in Naples
Name a seat, leave a legacy!
Don’t miss out on this chance to have yourself or a loved one memorialized as an important part of our arts-loving community by naming a seat in our Kizzie, Price, or Glass Theaters.
Hundreds of thousands of patrons, volunteers, and other guests will pass through our newly renovated theater, and your name will be evidence of your dedication to the arts and TNP for years to come.
Seats range from $500 to $5,000 based on location.
Thank You TO OUR DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS
This past season 590 volunteers donated 50,716 hours to making Season 70 a success!
Season 70 echoed of days past when The Naples Players staged performances in schools, churches, and living rooms simply to keep the arts alive when they were between facilities or without a home base of their own.
Despite being in several locations across Naples, one thing remained united - our dedicated volunteer base .
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
JamieLynn Bucci
Jody Cameron
Jillian Keith
Hannah Klein
Sydney Miller
Gia Provinzino
Patricia Puia
Matthew Schwabauer
David Shaffer
Vanessa Tarabocchia
Michael Troop
Aseem Upadhyay
Lorelai Vega
Jack Weld
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
2023-2024 SEASON
250 - 499 HOURS
Gwen Bettini
Brian Boland
Jules Branche
Rex Burns
Joseph Byrne
Braxton Cabrera
Jack Cole
Christian Conn
Kelsey Coss
Jordan Crawford
Scott Davis
100-249 HOURS
Jean Acker
Jo Ellen Atkinson
Pamela Austin
Emilie Baartman
Jane Ballurio
Lisa Bill
Alyssa Bradshaw
Beverly Canell
Hildegard Carney
Patti Caroli
Nathaniel Caruso
Tina Cedras
McKenna Cloud
Brayden Cloud
Sophia Condit
James Corsica
Aldo D’Acunzo
Alanna Dachille
Maria Delvillar
Christian Dinsmore
Victoria Duck
Jake Fattibene
Frankie Federico
Joseph Femia
Marcus Fuller
Sarah Gamblin
Austin Gardner
Jordan Gersbach
Carolina Grau
Riley Hart
Ed Ezrine
Elizabeth Feins
Elizabeth Fincher
Stephanie Fowle
Mitch Frank
Shelley Gothard
Debra Gulinello
Lisa Gunn
Tammy Harris
Jennifer Hart
Marilyn Hilbert
Denise Hoeflich
Madeleine Howe
Ruth Johnson
Kip Jones
John Kamp
Giszelle Kirton
Val Kuffel
Joan Laughlin
Nancy Hayer
Jeannine Hedberg
Amy Hughes
Damian Ivanov
Ashley Kosten
Olivia LaChance
Jennifer Mance
Elizabeth Marcantonio
Eduardo Marin
Lila Mastro
Alex Minarik
Steve Lee
Sandy LoPresti
Russel Loyet
Madison Mance
Ray Marasco
John McKerrow
Yuliana Mercado
Dan Miller
Sydney Mixon
Linda Mizeur
Tina Moroni
Abigail Nelson
Adriann Philby
Ella Provinzino
Sue Rapanos
Victoria Rinaldi
Sabine Rivera
Erica Sample-Fasano
Andrew Sarkozy
Adler Monpremier
Kelly Rossberg
Roseann Ruggiero
Judy Scribner
Jean Snyder
Fredley Sylvain
Kenny Tran
Ciarán Welch
Cynthia Sepich
Jane Shub
Jeff Smith
Esther Snyder
Anthony Soto
Lynnelle St. Albord
Andrea Tanner
Mary Taylor
Anna Tipton
Joseph Townsend
Lauren Turner
Mark Vanagas
Lynne Vela
Lindsey Walsh
Mary Jane Wann
Rachel Weiner
Nancy Woolf
Continued on page 22>
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION
2023-2024 SEASON
25-99 HOURS
Evan Abram
Lloyd Adams
Kimberly Albrecht
Dorothy Allard
Robin Bache Gray
Dianne Bacon
Melody Bales
Chloe Bayer
Maureen Beirne
Leo Benander-McKay
Maddy Benner
Emir Bilen
Gregg Birr
Judi Bloom
Jack Bosley
Solei Bourgeois
Maddie Brendel
Brad Brenner
Kathryn Buchwald
Maria Burri
Ernst Burri
Judith Buruk
Cole Butcher
Giselle Cairney
Samantha Calero
Emily Cameron
Robert Cappetta
Justine Carlson
Victor Caroli
Kristin Cassidy
Margot Cassinelli
Melanie Chiani
Zoe Ciabaton
Tucker Claremont
Alison Claremont
Juliet Clayton
Casey Cobb
Ian Cocklin
Katharine Condit
William Condit
Grace Condit
Katie Cross
Lillian Cuoco
Thomas Currie
Richie Davies
Barbara Davin
Douglas Degelsmith
L.A. DeRiggi
Kathleen Devitt
Hannah Diamond
Joan DiLillo
Samantha Dooney
Olivia Dooney
Richard Dougherty
James Duggan
Ken Eastlack
Emma Eastman
Nathan Eichhorn
Devan Elliott
Rosemary Erb
Frankie Fasano
John Feliciano
Jacob Feltman
Patti Ferguson
Linda Fikes
Suri Finch
Lily Fletcher
Daniella Flom
Conner Foley
Cooper Foley
Valeska Frailing
Alexander Garciarena
Maria Gil
Dennis Glass
Alexandria Goenner
Chloe Gorgas
Betsy Greenblatt
Cynthia Haas
Ella Hamblen
Jon Hart
Shakeem Harvey
Ed Heckert
Arlene Heiselman
Cynthia Hile
Jesse Hughes
Luke Jaconis
Megan Jimenez
Charlene Josselyn
Scott Kadera
Robert Kasler
Rachel Kastner
Sandra Keeler
Paula Keenan
Kevin Kenneally
Maya Kleinsorge
Ralph Krumins
Frances Lang
Barbara Laub
Zanna Lawson
Melanie Leach
Melany Leon
Nicole Letendre
Cassie Letendre
Kathie Lewis
Terry Libby
James Little
Sofia Lugo
Mike Malat
Cindy Malley
Maria Marko
Mary Kate Masterson
Christine Mastrangelo
Diane Mastroianni
Lisa Mathe
Kay Mayr
Harry McCartney
Mary Anne McKerrow
Nicholas Mehler
Elizabeth Mehler
Scarlett Meinert
Diane Melino
Linda Miller
Tracie Miller
Jim Mizeur
Peggy Monson
Moira Moser
Dougherty
Lucy Mullin
Jacob Myny
Lena Neal
Keegan Novinski
Susan O’Brien
Luc Olazabal
Gavin Ott
Adriana Parodi
James Pease
Shelley Perry
David Peterson
Matias Piscoya Fernandez
Maureen Place
Emma Podolak
Pat Pollok
Ollie Posey
Marie Prasek
Grey Purtle
Ricardo Rago
Jerry Rannow
Lynda Reymann
Nancy Ribordy
Brittany Rincon
Claudia Rioles
Ellen Rodwick
Kathleen Rogers
Terry Rohler
Emerson Roschek
Annie Rosemond
Tracy Rosen
Maria Rozo
Shawn Ryan
Christine Sadry
Gia Sanchez
Juliet Sanchez
Michael Santos
Sophie Sawyer
Sadie Scardino
Meg Schelling
Max Schnorbach
William Shade
Sophia Siciliano
Olivia Silverio
Christiane Simmons
Judy Smith
Denise Smith
Carolyna Sotuyo
Cynthia Spanier
Rocco Swem
Sharon Swinton
Aiden Thayer
Bruce Thompson
Virginia Thompson
Candi Tipton
Norman Toback
Colton Townsend
Sharon True
Malena Tucker
Robert Uek
Caylee Valencia
Bianca Varetto
Carole Vasiloff
Alessa Vazquez
Julian Vitelli
Ivana Vivar
Jasmine Vizena
Renee Vrehas
Gabriele Weger
Kenneth Wetcher
David Whalley
Ryan Wheeler
Bealey Cate White
Ava Williams
Nicholas Young
Lynne Young
Yelena Yurinets
Kathryn Zagel
Sylvia Abboud
Terry Abraham-Whalley
Ethan Abram
Kathy Abrams
Romina Alezard
Leonard Allen
Kelly Altemier
Linda Altemus
Patrick Ashton
Karly Atkinson
Katherine Baer
John Ballurio
Joel Banow
Tom Baranowski
Sharon Baranowski
Rick Barnard
Kathleen Barney
Maureen Bartholomew
Christopher Baucom
Veronica Benages
Carin Benford
Jennifer Benner
Mollie Berman
Robert Berman
Suzan Berman
Marcia Bermel
Brian Bermel
Daniela Bermudez
Theresa Bill
Janina Birtolo
Maximus Bogert
Samantha Bogert
Reily Boland
Joanie Borbely
Rebecca Borchardt
Tammy Bourgeois
Nancy Bourke
Maikel Bover
Andrea Bramante
Remy Branstetter
Marlene Bridge
David Burns
Alex Butler
Jessica Cameron
Layla Capone
Bella Carrillo
Janice Caruso
Pamela Caruso
Jude Caruso
Steven Caruso
Michelle Cassinelli
Jennifer Castricone
Lisa Chiesa
Joan Cicconetti
Luke Claremont
Carol Clarke
Casey Cobb
Sylvia Conger
Sydney Conn
Maggie Cosgrove
Terry Cosgrove
Veronica Cossetta
Margo Crupi
Lucy Davisson
Ted DeGroot
Debbie Delgado
Cathy DeMartis
Peter DeMartis
Travis Depanicis
Deja Rice Diapella
Kathleen Donelli
Lora Donia
Dolph Dunn
Suzanne Eastman
Kara Eisenga
Vivienne Engelmann
Margot Escott
Lisa Evancho
Julie Ewing
Karen Ezrine
Christine Farrell
Carole Fenstermacher
Noemi Fernandez
Aubrey Finch
Melissa Flom
Ava Foley
Karen Foltz
Ian Forbes
Linnea Fraser
Linda Friis
Devin Gales
Ashley Garcia
Karen Garrett
James Gayeuski
Cheryl Ghauri
Alan Giertych
Heather Goenner
David Golya
Bruce Graev
John Graf
Sally Greene
Becka Gurevich
Candace Haddad
Donna Haggett
Larry Harrison
Chanda Hawthorne
Patricia Heckert
James Heffernan
Emily Hendrick
Corey Hernandez
Cliff Hogen
Leona Hogen Curzi
Jackie Indriago
Vera James
John Jensen
Alexis Johnson
Maria Joyce
Thomas Juday
Fabiola Justiniano
Stacy Kastner
Kristina Kavalov
Debron Keller-
McCartney
Sue Kemp
Barbara King
Melissa King
Kathleen Kolacz
Sally Kosten
Elinor Koury-Waskevich
Nancy Kumskis
Regina Kunkle
Pat Lake
Mary Lalley
John Lane
Jill Lane
Jacque Laughlin
Dessie Leff
Helane LePort
Patricia Leyhe
Landon Libbey
Erika Lingertat
Joseph Loiacono
Alice LoPresti
Paul LoPresti
Jace Loznak
Sarah Ma
Brett Mance
Ethan Marlow
Sheryl Martin
MaryAnne Mascolo
Taryn Masterson
Diana Mayette
William Mayr
Patricia McAlevey
Debron McCartney
Bob McCormick
Michele McGinnis
Jill McKay
Catherine McKeone
Mary Ellen McNamara
Sandy Meadows
Robert Medeiros
Grace Medeiros
Heidi Merendino
Gary Miller
Debera Millstein
John Miranda
Tom Mitchell
Christina Mona
Jackie Morelisse
Rosemary Nardone
Sue Nathanson
Craig Nayhouse
Kevin Nestor
Paula Nizzardo
Roberta Norin
Carol Norkus
Norbert Norkus
Meg Northrop
Helena Novak
Andrew O’Connor
Joellen Oberle
John Otis
Nora Ousley
Karen Partridge
Monique Pascual
Floriana Pellegrini
Chante Pemberton
Juan Penaloza
Maria Pentakis
Adriann Philby
Summer Pliskow
Susan Polastri
Ron Porter
Jaedyn Procacci
Isabella Ragsdale
Deloris Rannow
Robert Rath
Tom Rex
Marie Rhatigan
Cathie Ricciardo
Brenda Rice
Stephen W Rioles
David Rojas
Avery Roschek
Susan Roseliep
Donna Rotella
Charles Rotella
Don Salamack
Anthony Sanchez
Jennifer Sancton
George Santos
Susan Kay Sawyer
Rich Scarlato
Lynn Scarlato
Mary Schroeck
Alicia Schwartz
Sheila Seats
Carole Sharp
Iris Shur
Jessica Shwedel
Donna Sidoti
Judith Smith
Mahlon Stacy
Michael Stanek
Marlene Strollo
Kathy Taylor
Marcelo Tebet
Jay Terzis
Charisse Thomas
Deb Thompson
Richard Tienhaara
Jennifer Tikka
Delilah Tucker
Anabella Urban
Michele Vaira
Deborah Van Maele
Lynne Vannelli
Carolyn Velechko
Jason Wagaman
Debra Ward
Kelley Watson
Joanne Weber
Jackie Weiner
Linda Wertheim
Thomas White
Tom Wilde
Barbara Williams
Peggy Williams
Joan Wilson
Nancy Woodward
Carly Zeuner
Pablo Zuniga
STAFF & LEADERSHIP
2024-2025 SEASON
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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 Production Stage Manager/ Internship Director
PAMELA LARKIN CARUSO Director of Volunteer Advancement
CHRISTIAN CONN Front of House Associate
JOHN COOPER Front of House Associate
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 - Music
DAWN LEBRECHT FORNARA Artistic Director - Dance
AMY HUGHES Props Director
LUKE JACONIS Box Office Manager
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
THOMAS RICHARDSON Marketing Coordinator
GLENN VANGOLEN
GINNY VERAS
KAT ZAGEL
BETH PETRUNOFF City Liaison
CHRIS RILEY Director of Lighting
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
2024-25 INTERNS
MARIAH CRUTCHFIELD Lighting Intern
CALLIE HARTEL Costumes Intern
ANNIE HENNEN Stage Management Intern
ISLA HOFFMANN Scenic Intern
All emails are first initial, last name at naplesplayers.org TNP OFFSTAGE: (239) 434-7340 | 700 5th Ave S. #200 | Naples, FL 34102
Like a trusted friend, we’ll never let you lose sight of what’s most important to you.
A story of five friends bound by mutual trust and support take center stage in The Naples Players’ comedy, The Hallelujah Girls. Similarly, The Estate, Trust & Wealth Preservation Team at Quarles, are also dedicated to maintaining strong, meaningful long-term connections. We understand life’s possibilities as well as the need to be prepared for possible changes and obstacles that can disrupt the preservation of your goals, wealth and legacy. Our dozen highly skilled professionals provide a superior level of expertise and service to our clients in the Naples community. We are unsurpassed in navigating the complexities and intricacies of your estate, trust and business succession planning.
We’ll support you and help to ensure your future — whether it’s to seize opportunities, mitigate risks, or work through difficult situations. Let us assist you by implementing tailored strategies that expand and evolve as your family does — through births, graduations, weddings, spa days, retirement — and everything in between.
To learn more about what the law firm of Quarles & Brady can do for you, contact Kimberley A. Dillon, Partner, at (239) 434-4965 or kimberley.dillon@quarles.com.
2024-2025 SEASON
Escape the Ordinary
AND EXPERIENCE YOUR OWN TRULUCK’S MOMENT
Celebrate in style. Dedicated to creating special occasions and enduring memories, our passionate chefs honor and elevate with superior ingredients, precise execution, and classic presentation. Delight in the ocean’s finest, sustainablysourced seafood, our iconic, fresh Florida Stone crab, remarkable cocktails and wines, live entertainment, and the service you deserve. YOUR TABLE IS WAITING.
