BOX OFFICE INFORMATION Visit us at The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239 (Park and enter the mall by Connors Steak & Seafood.) Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am to 5pm Opens an hour before productions begin We do not hold tickets without payment Want to pay with card? We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and Apple Pay TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE Gift Certificates are available in a variety of denominations
CONTACT US Box Office...............................................941.365.2494 Players Studio (Education Dept.)..........941.552.8879
THE SARASOTA PLAYERS STAFF Managing Artistic Director.......................Thayer Greenberg Director of Operations.............................Jason Ellis Director of Development..........................Amy Gorman Director of Marketing & PR......................Amanda Heisey Production Manager.................................Brian Finnerty Technical Director.....................................Scott Schuster Asst. Technical Director...........................Logan Junkins Costume Shop Manager..........................Jill Castle Costume Shop Assistant.........................Val Rozon
BOX OFFICE ASSOCIATES Ren Pearson, Leslie Price, Jim Floyd, Cheryl “Coco” McCall
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Chair Katie Weiss Vice Chair Diane Weiss Secretary Scott Keys Treasurer Rob McLain Trustees Michelle Bilsky, Bill Rusling, Es Swihart, Melissa Finley
ABOUT THE SARASOTA PLAYERS The Sarasota Players is Sarasota’s original community theatre, creating live performances for over 96 years. We produce classic and contemporary plays and musicals featuring local talent of all ages. Our education branch, The Players Studio, offers theatre training for children and adults, no experience required. We’re a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone is encouraged to take part, whether onstage, backstage or in the audience. At The Players, you don’t just watch the story, you become part of it.
Learn more: theplayers.org
POLICIES LATE ARRIVALS Patrons arriving after production begins will be seated as soon as they can, but may not be able to be seated in their ticketed seats. No refunds for late arrivals. RECORDING Due to copyright law, recording of any kind is prohibited. NOISE During performances, refrain from conversations, unwrapping snacks, using cell phones, tablets, watch alarms and other sound/light-emitting device. CHILDREN Discretion is advised regarding appropriate age of children attending the theatre. Attendance of children under the age of four is not recommended for most shows. Children must remain seated during the performance. Please note that The Sarasota Players reserves the right to refuse admission to - or to remove disruptive, unruly, or visibly intoxicated patrons or participants. Patrons or participants who refuse to leave the theatre upon request by house staff shall be considered trespassers and are subject to removal by law enforcement. No exceptions!
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR’S NOTE As The Sarasota Players steps into an exciting new chapter, we find ourselves at a powerful moment of reflection and possibility. With new leadership and an energized Board of Trustees who bring both deep roots and fresh perspective, we are standing at the threshold of a renewed vision, one that honors our past while boldly shaping our future. As Artistic Director, I am incredibly proud and excited to help guide this next era as we move toward an extraordinary milestone: 100 years as Sarasota’s oldest theatre. Our focus is clear. We are committed to strengthening our mission and investing in what has always made The Sarasota Players special. At our heart, we are not simply a building or a stage, we are a community. A community of artists, students, educators, volunteers, audiences, and supporters who believe in the power of storytelling and the transformative impact of theatre and theatre education. It is this shared passion that has carried us through decades of change and continues to propel us forward. This season reflects that belief. It is rooted in connection, creativity, and courage, celebrating voices both familiar and new, honoring tradition while embracing innovation, and creating space for learning, growth, and joy. Whether you are joining us as a lifelong patron or stepping into our theatre for the very first time, you are an essential part of this story. We are playing on. We are building toward the future with intention and heart. And as we return for our third act, we do so together, grateful for where we’ve been, inspired by where we’re going, and ready to continue telling stories that bring us closer, challenge us, and remind us why live theatre matters.
Thayer Greenberg Managing Artistic Director Players Studio Director The Sarasota Players
Thank you to our incredible donors—your generosity fuels every spotlight, every story, and every standing ovation. Because of you, we’re able to inspire, entertain, and build community through the power of live theatre. We are deeply grateful for your continued support!
SEASON SPONSORS
Leaf and Ange Wanless
STUDIO SHOW SPONSORS
DONATE We’re raising money to keep The Sarasota Players a safe, inclusive space for local performers, students, and audiences. By giving, you’re doing so much more than just supporting a theatre. Your donation helps us produce amazing shows, provide affordable theatre education, and ensure that no one is ever turned away due to cost.
Interested in becoming a donor? Contact our Director of Development, Amy Gorman at amyg@theplayers.org or call 941.365.2494.
DONATE ONLINE HERE
DIRECTOR’S NOTE The SpongeBob Musical is a story that reminds us that heroes can come from the most unexpected of places. Bikini Bottom faces a disaster and SpongeBob and his friends must learn to work together, believe in one another, and choose empathy in order to keep their community. Every character plays a part in showing that our differences are what make us stronger. This production embraces the heart of this incredible show while staying true to the message that perseverance and teamwork can overcome even the biggest challenges. I have been lucky enough to work with The Players, and am extremely grateful to say that this is my fourth summer directing these shows. Each year, I continue to be amazed by the young performers who walk through these doors. This cast, ranging from 10 to 16 years old, has brought endless creativity and dedication to every rehearsal. Watching them take risks, support one another, and grow not only as performers but as people has been one of the greatest joys of this summer. Most of all, they’ve taught me so much about kindness, building relationships, and learning how to find the fun in everything we do. This is a community I wouldn’t trade for the world. To my wonderful cast, I hope this summer has given you new skills and confidence to carry into your future on and off the stage. More importantly, I hope this story reminds you to always choose kindness, celebrate what makes you unique, and never underestimate the impact that a singular person can have. Like SpongeBob, continue to face challenges with optimism, lift up those around you, and never stop believing that even the impossible is worth fighting for. A few thank yous - first, to the parents, thank you for your endless support, for helping your performers practice, getting them here every day, and cheering them on through every rehearsal. To everyone working behind the scenes, thank you for bringing this world to life through costumes, props, lights, sound, and everything in between. Your hard work makes the magic possible. Thank you to our choreographer, Dylan, for creating such fun and energetic dances and for inspiring this cast every step of the way. And finally, thank you to my right-hand person, Thayer, for your guidance, encouragement, and for helping me grow into the director I am today. I truly couldn't have done it without you.
With all that being said, I hope you enjoy The SpongeBob Musical! With love,
Gavin Gargano Director
The Players Studio presents
The
SPongebob Musical
Youth Edition
Based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg Book by Kyle Jarrow Musical Production Conceived by Tina Landau Original Songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants, T.I. And Songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny & Andy Paley Additional Lyrics by Jonathan Coulton | Additional Music by Tom Kitt
DIRECTOR
Gavin Gargano MUSIC DIRECTOR CHOREOGRAPHER Bryan Egan
Dylan Grantham
CREATIVE TEAM Calling Stage Manager Evan Jarr
Costume Designer Jill Rodriguez
Set Designer Brian F. Finnerty
Props Brian Finnerty Michael Snyder Yaroslava Kotchutin
Lighting Designer Logan Junkins Sound Designer Scott Schuster
Scenic Painters Claire Arnold, Dev O’Neill, Murney Greeley
©2023 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. Created by Stephen Hillenburg.
The
SPongebob
Musical Cast
Youth Edition
SpongeBob SquarePants……Dillon O’Callaghan Patrick Star………...................Alice Mills Squidward Q. Tentacles……..Irene Bailey Sandy Cheeks….....................Petra Chop Eugene Krabs………..............Ari Portnowitz Sheldon J. Plankton……........Braden Baker Karen Plankton……...............Alex Riddle Pearl Krabs…….....................Dylan Grantham French Narrator……..............Elodie Lecoeuche Gary…...................................Maxine Patel Perch Perkins…….. .............Josie Calderon Mayor of Bikini Bottom……..Capri Eduardo Larry The Lobster…..............Isabella Harrington Old Man Jenkins…...............Elijah Joseph Electric Skates…..................Linnea Weiss, Molly Knispel, .............................................Marney McLain, Ramona Parks, .............................................Ayat Mezroub Sardine Devotees…….........Haley White, Linnea Weiss, .............................................Ayat Mezroub Cowboy Fish….....................Haley White
The
SPongebob
Musical Song List
Youth Edition
Bikini Bottom Day BFF When the Going Gets Tough Just a Simple Sponge Daddy Knows Best Hero Is My Middle Name Super Sea Star Savior Bikini Bottom Boogie I’m Not a Loser Chop to the Top Just a Simple Sponge (Reprise) Best Day Ever Bikini Bottom Day (Finale) SpongeBob SquarePants Theme Song
Special Thanks Thank you to our volunteers who helped with scenic painting and prop construction! ANY VIDEO RECORDING MADE OF THIS PERFORMANCE IS AUTHORIZED FOR PERSONAL, AT-HOME, NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY. THE SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF SUCH RECORDING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED UNDER FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAW.
BIOS Dillon O’Callaghan (Spongebob SquarePants) is thrilled to be playing SpongeBob in The SpongeBob Musical! He has previously been in many productions at The Players, including 13: The Musical Jr. (Evan), Honk! Jr. (Ugly), Matilda the Musical Jr. (Bruce), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Prince Eric with The Players, Flounder with JTF), Into the Woods Jr. (Rapunzel’s Prince), Les Misérables (Joly), Dare to Dream Jr. (Player 3), and more. Dillon is a sophomore at The Out-of-Door Academy, where he has been in Shrek Jr. (Little Pig), Alice in Wonderland Jr. (Dormouse), Curtains (Randy), Frozen Jr. (Kristoff), Spelling Bee (Chip), and Mamma Mia! Dillon would like to thank Gavin and Thayer for everything. Alice Mills (Patrick Star) is excited to be playing Patrick Star in The SpongeBob Musical. She has previously been seen in The Lightning Thief Jr. (Mr. D), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Potts), and Honk! Jr. (Drake). She would like to thank Gavin, Mr. Brian, her mom, her dad, and her awesome brother Henry.
Irene Bailey (Squidward Q. Tentacles) is a junior in the VPA Dance and AICE programs at Booker High School. She is so excited to be performing her 7th show with The Players Studio. You may have seen her in Dare to Dream Jr., Metamorphoses, The Little Mermaid Jr., Honk! Jr., and many other productions. In addition to theatre, Irene has been seen in multiple dance shows. She would like to thank Gavin, Thayer, and Brian for giving her this opportunity, her cast members for the endless support and fun, and her family for encouraging her passion of performing. Petra Chop (Sandy Cheeks) is so excited to be playing Sandy in this production! She is in 7th grade at Nolan Middle School. She has previously performed in Annie (July), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Mersister), Honk! Jr. (Pinkfoot), Finding Nemo Jr. (Crush), Cinderella Jr. (Harold), and Matilda Jr. (Ensemble). Petra would like to thank her friends and family for making this happen!
Ari Portnowitz (Eugene Krabs) is thrilled to be playing Mr. Krabs in The SpongeBob Musical! Ari is 11 years old and is about to attend Booker Middle School’s VPA program. Previous credits include Moana Jr. (Maui), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Sebastian), Honk! Jr. (Snowy), Peter Pan Jr. (John Darling), and Dare to Dream Jr. He is so thankful for Ms. Gavin, Mr. Brian, and Ms. Thayer for helping him on his journey! Enjoy the show! Braden Baker (Sheldon J. Plankton) is thrilled to be in The SpongeBob Musical! His recent credits include Matilda Jr. (Tommy), 13: The Musical Jr. (Simon), Honk! Jr. (Turkey), The Lightning Thief Jr. (Poseidon), Into the Woods Jr. (Milky White), Alice in Wonderland (Doorknob), and Annie (Warbucks). Braden would like to thank his family, friends, and Thayer for always supporting him!
Alex Riddle (Karen Plankton) is so excited to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical, and she would like to thank her directors, family, and castmates for making this show such a wonderful experience. She is going to be a freshman at Booker High School next year. Some of her favorite previous shows have been The Lightning Thief (Sally Jackson), Dare to Dream Jr. (Player 10), and Seussical Jr. (Mayzie La Bird). Alex wants to also give the biggest thanks to her director Gavin for giving her a chance to shine in the spotlight. Alex can’t wait to do more Players productions in the future, and she hopes you enjoy the show!
Dylan Grantham (Pearl Krabs) is so excited to be a part of her 16th Players show! She will be going into her Junior Year at Booker High in the Theatre VPA program. She’s enjoyed choreographing this show so much, as well as being in it! Dylan would like to thank Gavin and Thayer for always believing in her. Enjoy the show! Elodie Lecoeuche (French Narrator) is overjoyed to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical! She is currently preparing to enter 8th grade at Pine View School. She would like to thank her family, friends, directors, and castmates for making a truly wonderful experience!
Maxine Patel (Gary) is so excited to be in The SpongeBob Musical! She most recently performed in Peter Pan Jr. and Dare to Dream Jr. She looks forward to being in many more shows with The Players. In her free time, she likes to read, plays D&D, and snuggles with her cats. She appreciates her family, the cast, and her cats, and would like to thank them for being amazing!
Josie Calderon (Perch Perkins) has appeared in performances such as Honk! Jr. (Camera Crew) and 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse. She would like to thank her brother Sam for encouraging her to continue this journey to becoming an actor. She wishes to inspire others to be themselves when she becomes older. She would also like to thank everyone who supports her, and she hopes to see you at future shows!
Capri Eduardo (Mayor of Bikini Bottom) is so excited to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical with The Players! She is a 7th grade student at SSAS and has been doing theatre since elementary school. Her previous performances have included Legally Blonde (Inmate), Frog and Toad (Toad), Annie (Star to Be), Thumbelina (Mother), and Titanic Tragedy (Lee). She’d like to give a big thanks to Tess Antivilo for inspiring her and helping her to prepare for shows. Enjoy this amazing production! Isabella Harrington (Larry the Lobster) is so excited to be in her second theatre production and first with The Players! She has only been in a production of Highschool Musical (Taylor McKessie), and she is so excited to be Larry the Lobster in The SpongeBob Musical! She thanks her family, directors, and her friends who introduced her to The Players Studio. Isabella is an 8th grader at SMS and is excited to be in The Players family! Elijah Joseph (Old Man Jenkins) is so excited to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical. His most recent musical theatre performance was Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. He would like to thank his family, Mrs. Mills, and his directors.
Linnea Weiss (Electric Skate) is so grateful to be a part of this amazing show. She is currently a 7th-grade student of Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences. Her past productions have included The Little Mermaid Jr. (Flotsem), Annie (Tessie), and Little Cosette in Les Misérables. Linnea would like to thank her family, the cast, and directors for their constant support. Enjoy the show! Molly Knispel (Electric Skate) is thrilled to be back with The Players Studio for this production of The SpongeBob Musical. Outside of the theatre, Molly is part of the advanced choir and the All-State Choir at her school. Previous shows she has been in are Charlotte’s Web (Wilber), The Lightning Thief Jr. (Katie), and Dare to Dream Jr. (Player 4). She would like to thank her friends, family, directors, and her dogs for all their support! Marney McLain (Electric Skate) is thrilled to be a part of her fifth production with The Players! She is currently in 7th grade at Sarasota Middle School, and some of her past productions include Finding Nemo Jr. (Dory), High School Musical Jr. (Ryan), and The Lightning Thief Jr. (Silena). Marney would like to thank her family, friends, and castmates for supporting her and making this show an unforgettable experience! Ramona Parks (Electric Skate) is thrilled to be a part of the cast of The SpongeBob Musical! She is incredibly grateful for the cast and her directors, Gavin and Thayer. You may have seen her in previous performances such as The Lightning Thief Jr. (Groer Underwood) and The Little Mermaid Jr. (Adella).
Ayat Mezroub (Electric Skate) is going into 5th grade at SAA. She is very excited to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical. Ayat’s past productions include Willy Wonka (Ms. Teevee), Peter Pan Jr. (Peter), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Jetsam), Honk! Jr. (Downy), Matilda Jr. (Amanda Thripp), Finding Nemo Jr. (Nemo), James and the Giant Peach Jr. (Gloworm), and Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (Puppy). Ayat would like to thank her family, her dog, her best friends, and her teachers.
Haley White (Cowboy Fish) is very excited to be a part of The SpongeBob Musical! She is going into 7th grade and loves to perform in theatre at her school. Her most recent productions include Finding Nemo Jr. (Bloat), Rock of Ages Jr. (Tom), and Cinderella Jr. (Chef). She wants to thank her friends and castmates for making this production so spectacular!
ADRIAN VAN STEE
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