TNP Performance Guide: Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
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Welcome to SEASON 72
As the curtain falls on 2025, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for a remarkable year of growth, celebration, and reconnection.
Last season marked a defining year for The Naples Players—one shaped by purpose, people, and possibility. From record-breaking productions and our largest season ticket base ever to national recognition for our award-winning LEEDcertified facility, our theatre was once again filled with energy, creativity, and connection. More than a milestone year, this was a moment of momentum: expanded education programs, groundbreaking Arts Access partnerships, and unprecedented volunteer engagement reaffirmed our role as both a cultural home and a national model. Through deep collaborations with hospitals, schools, and community organizations, we extended the power of theatre far beyond our stages—bringing creativity, empathy, and human connection to where they are needed most.
At The Naples Players, every seat, every story, and every applause is part of something bigger—a shared commitment to building community through exceptional access to the power of theatre. Welcome to Season 72!
OUR MISSION
At The Naples Players, we build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre.
OUR VISION
We envision TNP as a cultural hub that leads a shift in the national perception of how theatres can impact their communities.
TICKETS
SHOW TIMES
WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY
7:30 p.m.
SUNDAY
2 p.m.
PRICING
GENERAL PUBLIC
$55-$57/each
SEASON PACKAGES
$42-$46/each STUDENTS
$25/each
MONDAY - SATURDAY 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. WILL CALL 2 hours before curtain
The stories of Season 73 explore what it means to belong, to reach across difference, and to find one another in moments of joy, loss, humor, and hope.
JUN 24 - JUL 26, 2026 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
THE TIMELESS MUSICAL OF HOPE AND HUMANITY A TALE OF FAMILY, FOOD, AND HEARTFELT TRUTH A SERIOUS COMEDY ABOUT SECOND CHANCES
OCT 07 - OCT 25, 2026 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
OCT 21 - NOV 22, 2026 IN THE PRICE STUDIO THEATER
NOV 18 - DEC 20, 2026 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
A TRUE STORY OF EXTRAORDINARY KINDNESS
JAN 13 - FEB 14, 2027 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
FEB 03 - MAR 07, 2027 IN THE PRICE STUDIO THEATER ALL ABOARD FOR A LEGENDARY MYSTERY
DELICATE HOPES IN A CHANGING WORLD
MAR 10 - APR 11, 2027 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER
MAY 05 - MAY 23, 2027 IN THE KIZZIE THEATER PUT ON YOUR SUNDAY BEST & CELEBRATE LOVE, TIME & INFINITE POSSIBILITIES SAVING THE STORIES THAT SHAPED THE WORLD
MAR 31 - MAY 02, 2027 IN THE PRICE STUDIO THEATER
AGA THA CHRISTIE'S
Season Ticket holders have the greatest access at the best prices. Choose as few as three shows with a Flex Package or see the whole season with our Platinum Package. Looking for just the peak season shows in our 450-seat Kizzie Theater? Our Gold Package is built just for that. Pick your seats early, get discounts on additional tickets, save on wine and beer, and level up by adding Elite Perks to your package.
Coming Up IN MARCH
MARCH 7, 2026 @ 7:30 pm • Price Studio Theater
It’s time for Stage 2 Improv March Madness! The games and songs are fueled by the audience. Join us for some improv where it’s all fun, games, and the audience always wins!
MARCH 7-8, 2026 @ 7:30 pm • Brallahan
Sharon is recently divorced and lives in Iowa and invites Robyn, relocating from New York City, to be her roommate. As the two get to know each other better, secrets are revealed and they learn more about themselves in the process.
MARCH 11 - APR 12, 2026
Kizzie Theater
An uproarious and uplifting musical that will have you laughing, singing, and rooting for the underdogs! With Tony-nominated toe-tapping songs and unforgettable moments, 9 to 5 The Musical is a celebration of friendship and resilience, and proves the power of standing up for what’s right.
MARCH 22, 2026 @ 7:30 pm • Glass Educational Theater
Mixed Nuts is an evening of five one-act plays that blend humor and heartbreak in unexpected ways. Presented in the intimate style of Readers Theatre, these stories explore memory, regret, and the fragile things we say— or don’t—before it’s too late. At turns quietly devastating and gently funny, Mixed Nuts offers a bittersweet look at the complexities of being human.
Arts Access FOR ALL
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
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.
COLLIER COUNTY CULTURE MEANS BUSINESS.
Company of Man of La Mancha Photo by Naples Creative.
Our Mission IN ACTION
2025 was a year of unparalleled growth and impact, not just within our theater walls but in our Southwest Florida community. We launched our full-time Baker Day School of our TNP Academy, had a record-setting season of ticket sales, and created our ArtRx program in partnership with NCH and other community partners.
The numbers below don’t come close to telling the full story but we encourage you to scan the QR code to view our 2025 Mission Report Card online to learn more.
PERFORMANCES
70,000+ tickets sold
272 performances
92% would recommend TNP
2,000+ season ticket holders
EDUCATION & ACCESS
EDUCATION & ACCESS
29 full-time students
1,000+ after school students
46 community partners
$250k in financial aid provided
VOLUNTEERS
30+ positions 850+ active volunteers 87,000+ volunteer hours
388 new volunteers in 2025
From Isolation Center Stage: Matthew’s Journey with Autism
Matthew Hasley’s journey from a quiet, isolated child to a confident lead actor is a powerful testament to the transformative power of support and the arts.
A Challenging Start
Diagnosed with autism at an early age, Matthew’s life began with struggles. His mom, Trissa, quit her job to stay home with him. Matthew did not speak until he was 5 years old – and then only a few words. With the therapy programs available at a private school for autistic children, he learned how to communicate and to do things in a world that didn’t understand him or his disability. With support and encouragement from his doctors and teachers, along with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy, he learned communication and basic life skills.
“I always felt a bit isolated as a child,” said Matthew. “Growing up, it felt like I never truly belonged and I grew depressed because of it. I spent most of my time in my room.”
Finding Belonging in Naples
Life dramatically changed when his family moved from Texas to Naples. In high school, Matthew discovered a passion for the marching band and theater. These activities, combined with crucial support from both The Naples Players (TNP) improv and Lorenzo Walker’s Project Explore program, became his turning point.
“Both helped me grow in my confidence, communication skills and self-love,” Matthew stated. “I have made some great friends and have supportive mentors. I couldn’t be more grateful.”
“The biggest lesson I can share with others – especially those with any physical or mental disabilities – is to never give up on yourself because I guarantee there is something out there for you. You just need to try your best and work hard for it. You can do this! It’s not always easy but it’s never impossible. Even if it doesn’t seem like you’re moving forward, every step is progress.”
Matthew Hasley
Matthew credits TNP improv instructors
Craig Price and Kit FitzSimons with motivating him to hone the skills that ultimately led him to audition for a lead role in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – a role he successfully landed.
Craig recalls Matthew’s participation in TNP’s Improv for Communication Skills, held on Friday evenings. “Improv classes help kids and parents communicate better, and everyone is invited, whether verbal or nonverbal. Over time, families – the kids and parents – become close friends. One of my favorite experiences was seeing them meet at local restaurants for trivia night. Parents sat at one table; the kids at another. The kids – Matthew’s group of young friends – were “crushing” it!”
The Growing Need for Inclusive Arts
The success of programs like those at TNP highlights a critical need. Craig
notes that the improv classes, initially serving five students a month eight years ago, have grown to serve more than 500 students each month. These inclusive environments welcome everyone, verbal or nonverbal, fostering a strong supportive community.
“Those of us dealing with sensory issues and on the spectrum often have brains that are working overtime – sometimes in a chaotic way,” said Craig. “Improv provides tools to help us focus, and also to learn to change and adapt. These programs have been demonstrated to give us the ability to ‘go with the flow’ when it feels like our life is going sideways.”
Embracing a Life of Potential
Playing the role of Chris in Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time seems particularly well-suited for Matthew. This inspiring story helps the audience see the world through the eyes of a brilliant teenager as he navigates challenges, celebrates his unique perspective, and discovers his own extraordinary potential. “I enjoy acting with The Naples Players and find it helpful in so many ways. Acting and participating in improv has taught me to better communicate in unexpected situations and realize that acceptance can be found,” Matthew shared.
While pursuing his education, Matthew plans to continue participating in TNP performances to build his acting skills. To achieve his career goal to become a chef, Matthew is enrolled in Project Explorer at Lorenzo Walker Technical College to study culinary arts and is currently working with the food and beverage staff at Moorings Park.
During difficult times, Matthew uses coping skills he learned previously in therapy and other tools he found work best for him, including working out and going for walks. “My mom and dad are the most supportive people I know and they continue to help me through all of my growing pains.”
With support from his family, friends and classmates at The Naples Players, Matthew made exceptional strides to overcome his disability and challenges. He willingly shares his experiences and provides inspiration to others with disabilities. “We are people, too, even if we don’t act like you think we should. Our feelings, goals, and desires to be a part of friendships and communities is the same.”
Matthew’s story is a shining example of resilience and incredible potential unlocked when individuals with autism and other disabilities are given the right tools and a welcoming stage.
We are honored to be a part of the renovation team, thank you to The Naples Players for your partnership.
Luxury Residential & Commercial Construction
Making Your Family the Star Today & for Generations to Come
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 South Florida and the #7 practice in the nation with nearly $6 billion (as of 10/31/25) in assets under management.
Donor RECOGNITION
NOVEMBER 1, 2025 - JANUARY 1, 2026
Please join us in thanking these donors who gave between November 1, 2025 and January 1, 2026. Gifts made today will be celebrated in a future issue of TNP Backstage.
Gary Ahlquist
Alan & Laurel Alfieri
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Joan Antos
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Malone Foundation
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Richard L. Tooke
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Bill Shade & John Pochopin
Dianne Shanley
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Janine Shea
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David B. & Vicky C. Smith
Gregory C. Smith
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Stephen Sorett
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Annalora Vanderbeek
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Lea S. Wald
Barb Wandling
Greer White
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Bruce & Barbara Wiegand
Marilyn Witcher
Craig Wobrock
Don Zolidis
Michael J. Zolidis
The Naples Players observes a fiscal year that runs from January 1 - December 31 of the calendar year, and includes gifts that support our operating budget. Capital Campaign donors are greatly appreciated, and their gifts are honored in publications specifically related to the progress of the campaign.
Capital Campaign DONORS
With major gifts and support from these donors, we completed a $22 million renovation in 2024 that allows us to expand the reach and impact of our mission. Thank you to these donors.
$3,000,000+
Jay & Patty Baker
$2,500,000+
Jay R. Paul
$1,500,000+
Rocco & Joan DiLillo
$1,000,000+
Denny & Tanya Glass
Henry Price
$500,000+
John & Joanne Fisher
Claire Skinner
David B. & Vicky C. Smith
David & Jerrilyn Hoffmann
$250,000+
Muffy Clark Gill
George D’Angelo & Laura St. Clair
Theresa Bill
Diane & Sid Davis
Bruce & Robin Bache Gray
$100,000+
Peter & Janet Swinburn
Bob Brady & Kathleen Callahan
John & Catherine Estey
NBH Family Foundation
$50,000+
Nancy Woolf
Steven & Shelley Einhorn
Kevin & Dorota Kilstrom
Ken Krier
Libby Family Foundation
Peggy & James Monson
Alan & Liz Jaffe
$25,000+
Robert & Ruth Brown
Jack & Debera Millstein
Jeff & Judy Kane
Patti Hepburn (The STEP Fund)
Kathryn & Ronald Zagel
Bruce & Joanie Graev
Sarann & Stan Kraushaar
Kathleen Azzariti
Shideh & Shahab Bina & Family
Jim & Linda Mizeur
$15,000+
Elizabeth Rountree
Brit & Marilyn Bartter
Audrey & Vaughn Pengelly
Nancy Ribordy
$10,000+
John P. & Linda B. Cardillo
Robert W. Uek
Ted & Lisa Bill
Tony & Wynne Ridgway
Alyssa Haney
Paulette Oliva/Oliva Family
Charitable Trust
Mark & Darlene Miller
The Claremont Family
The Betsey Harris Fund (Alan & Elizabeth Harris)
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
Capital Campaign DONORS
$5,000+
Lake Michigan Credit Union & Finemark Bank & Trust
The Nancy Peery Marriott Foundation
Barbara & George Davin
Donald & Victoria Strumillo
Debbie & Tim Wesolowski
Otto & Jennifer Immel
The Hastings Fitzgerald Family Fund
$2,500+
Carla Grieve
Janet Showers & Day Patterson
Vic & Patti Caroli
Pat Pollok
Dede & Robert Brownlee
Cheryl & Trent Waterhouse
$1,000+
Steve Purcell
Sue Rapanos
John & Pamela Meehan
Charmaine & Adrian Banky
Pengelly Family Fund
Arlene & Terry Riegel
Linda Fikes
Linda Benedict Colvin
Jo Ellen Atkinson
Bill & Carol Rohde
David & Terry Whalley
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Up to $1,000
Joel & Noel Bleier
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Pamela & Steven Caruso
Mary Connone
Linda Reymann
Diane Thompson
Margot Kenzie
Eleanor S. Dobbin
Debra Sundin
PRESENT
THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME
A PLAY BY SIMON STEPHENS
DIRECTOR
BRYCE ALEXANDER
SCENIC DESIGNER
TANIA BARRENECHEA
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY MARK HADDON
CO-DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER
COURTNEY LAINE SELF
LIGHTING DESIGNER ABBY MAY*
COSTUME DESIGNER DAYNE SABATOS
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR PHILLIP FAZIO
STAGE MANAGER KENZIE CURRIE
PROJECTION DESIGNER LUIS GARCIA
PROPS DESIGNER AMY HUGHES
SOUND DESIGNER ALEX NEUMANN*
DRAMATURGS
RICKI BAKER & PATRICIA PUIA
EXECUTIVE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR BRYCE ALEXANDER
THE PRICE THEATER
FEBRUARY 04 - MARCH 01, 2026
“THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME” was first presented by the National Theatre, London at the Cottesloe Theatre on August 2nd 2012 and transferred to the Gielgud Theatre, West End, London on March 12th 2013. The Play opened in the USA at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on October 5th 2014.
This Play is presented by kind permission of Warner Bros. Entertainment.
*The designers of this production is represented by United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, IATSE.
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). Sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Division of Arts and Culture and the National Endowment for the Arts.
THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
Cast & CREW
In this production, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time features two actors sharing the role of Christopher Boone. One lives the story as it unfolds; the other recalls and narrates it — two halves of a single mind in motion. Their performances echo, collide, and complete each other, revealing that truth is never one voice alone. Together, they embody Christopher’s journey from certainty to understanding — showing that comprehension, not fact, is what ultimately connects us.
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ............................................................................................. HUNTER REUM
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERS ................................................ THOMAS HARTLAND, ABIGAIL SPIKER
AV SYSTEMS ENGINEER ...................................................................................... KOHEN VERRETTE
ASSOCIATE LIGHTING DESIGNER .............................................................................. HENRY WILEN
ASSISTANT LIGHTING DESIGNER ........................................................................... DALLAS J. COOK
ELECTRICIANS ........................... LEXII CLEMONS, KATE CONDIT, THOMAS HARTLAND, JOHN M c GONIGLE, KAREN M c GONIGLE, CHRISTINA SKIBICKI, DYLAN TURNER
COSTUME CONSTRUCTION & CARE ....................................... CARLY ATKINSON, GIANNA DEL DEBBIO, DYLAN FILLMORE, ANIA GAJZMER, BARB LAUB, SANDY L o PRESTI, JEAN SNYDER, KATELYN TRAN, MIA ZEWALK
SCENIC PAINTING & CONSTRUCTION ......................................... SYLVIA CONGER, THOMAS DURAND, JOHN FELICIANO, JOE FEMIA, LINDA FRIIS, JIM GAYEUSKI, TAMMY HARRIS, STEPHEN INGLE, SANDY KEELER, KARLI KNEPFLER, STEVE LEE, RUSS LOYET, DAVID ORTH, RAY MARASCO, PAUL PENNISI, BOB RATH, TRACY ROSEN, TODD SCOVILLE, JEFF SMITH, SYDNIE SWIFT, MARY TAYLOR, MICHAEL TROOP, MARK VOUTYRAS, MJ WANN, FRED WILLIG
PROPERTIES ........................................................................... JOE LOIACONO, DEBRON M c CARTNEY
SPECIAL THANKS
LINDA RUSSELL-THORNE
Acts & SCENES
ACT 1
SCENE 1: Garden
SCENE 2: School
SCENE 3: Police Station
SCENE 4: Police Station
SCENE 5: School
SCENE 6: Home
SCENE 7: Home
SCENE 8: School
SCENE 9: Home
SCENE 10: Street
SCENE 11: School
SCENE 12: Street
SCENE 13: School
SCENE 14: School Office
SCENE 15: Home
SCENE 16: Home
SCENE 17: School
SCENE 18: The Street
SCENE 19: Park
SCENE 20: School
SCENE 21: Beach
SCENE 22: Home
SCENE 23: Map of House
SCENE 24: Back to Reality
SCENE 25: Night
SCENE 26: School
SCENE 27: Home
15-MINUTE INTERMISSION
ACT 2
SCENE 28: School Room & School Hall
SCENE 29: Street
SCENE 30: Home
SCENE 31: Swindon
SCENE 32: Swindon Train Station
SCENE 33: On Train
SCENE 34 a: Dream
SCENE 34 b: Back to Reality
SCENE 35: Platform
SCENE 36: Platform
SCENE 37: Tube Train
SCENE 38: Willseden Junction
SCENE 39: Outside Judy’s House
SCENE 40: Inside Judy’s House
SCENE 41: Christopher’s Bedroom at Judy’s
SCENE 42: Night, Outside Corridor Bedroom
SCENE 43: Judy’s Kitchen
SCENE 44: London Street at Night
SCENE 45: Hampstead Heath
SCENE 46: Judy’s Home
SCENE 47: Judy’s Kitchen
SCENE 48: Judy’s Home
SCENE 49: Judy’s Home
SCENE 50: Judy’s Home
SCENE 51: Street
SCENE 52: School
SCENE 53: Exam Room
SCENE 54: Home
SCENE 55: School
SCENE 56: Home
SCENE 57: School
Meet THE CAST
Ensemble Voice/ Mrs. Alexander
Ensemble Voice
(IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Ensemble Voice
Ensemble Voice/ Roger Shears
Ensemble Voice/ Mrs.
Ensemble Voice/ Mrs.
PAMELA AUSTIN
OSCAR BENTLEY
THOMAS CURRIE Christopher EDISON FILNER
Ensemble Voice
LISA GUNN
Ensemble Voice
JEN HART Judy
MATTHEW HASLEY Christopher
RUTH JOHNSON Siobhan
RUTH KENNEDY
JOCH LUZARRAGA
LINDA MIZEUR
Gascoyne
TOM REX Ensemble Voice
KELLY ROSSBERG Ed ROSEANN RUGGIERO
Ensemble Voice/ Mrs. Shears
SUSAN VOBEJDA
Wise
PAMELA AUSTIN (Ensemble Voice/Mrs. Alexander) Pamela’s performances with The Naples Players include Monette Gentry/Always A Bridesmaid , Bertha/Boeing Boeing, Wilhelmina Fleming/Silent Sky, and Kate/Sylvia . Pamela can also be heard on TNP Radio Theatre in select hourly radio programs. Through her career she acquired numerous professional theater and television credits to her resume and is a proud member of Screen Actors Guild. Pamela studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theater in NYC.
OSCAR BENTLEY (Ensemble Voice) is thrilled to be making his stage debut with The Naples Players! A junior at Aubrey Rogers High, Oscar brings a wealth of experience to this production honed over four summers at the performing arts Camp Ballibay, where he participated in numerous theatrical productions. Oscar’s passion lies in improv and vocal performance. His favorite role to date is Judas/Godspell . He is no stranger to the local theater scene, having previously volunteered his time assisting with set design at The Naples Players. He is excited to transition from backstage volunteer to onstage performer for this production.
THOMAS CURRIE (Christopher) is excited to play Christopher Boone. He attends The Baker Day School. Past credits include Orpheus/Hadestown: Teen Edition, Inspector Kemp/Young Frankenstein, Bustopher Jones/Asparagus/CATS , and Beadle Bamford/Sweeney Todd Teen. He will soon be playing Mark Cohen in the TNPA Production of RENT: School Edition so grab your tickets! This role has been especially meaningful, allowing Thomas to explore Christopher’s story. He is grateful to the cast, crew, and creative team for their support and hopes audiences connect with Christopher’s journey.
EDISON FILNER (Ensemble Voice) is a sophomore at Barron Collier High and is so excited to be stepping into his second mainstage production (and first show in the Price Theater)! Recent credits at TNP include Macavity/CATS , Tobias/Sweeney Todd Teen, Ensemble/Sweeney Todd, Virgil/Ride
the Cyclone, Worker/Hadestown: Teen Edition, and Ziggy/Young Frankenstein. While not performing in the theater, Edison loves playing the violin and viola and is a member of multiple ensembles including the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, as well as most recently the FMEA 2026 All-State Orchestra. He would like to thank everyone involved with this production and with TNP for creating such a wonderful community and safe space. Enjoy the show!
LISA GUNN (Ensemble Voice) is happy to be making her stage debut with The Naples Players on this production. Lisa has been volunteering for TNP since 2018 as a dresser or backstage crew. Originally from NY, she moved to NC where she performed, costumed, played in the orchestra and music directed for over 30 shows. Some of her favorites were Les Misérables, Pippin, Macbeth, Gypsy, and Cabaret. Lisa wants to thank her family for their continued support for the passion she has for live theatre.
JEN HART (Judy) is a proud theatre graduate of Santa Clara University. Previous credits at TNP include The Dining Room, Clue, and Della’s Dream. Special thanks to the amazing team at TNP. Endless love to Jon, Riley, Blythe, Liam, and Kizzie. Thank you for supporting live theatre and this magical place.
MATTHEW HASLEY (Christopher) is 19 years old. In 2024, he graduated from Gulf Coast High, where he started developing a love for acting in his senior year theatre and TV production classes. In January 2024, he made his debut as Bishop/Ensemble in Shrek the Musical for the GCHS theatre program. He has also been participating in Improv groups with Craig Price since the spring of 2024, and he is extremely grateful to be given such a big opportunity and to make a difference here at TNP! He would also love to thank Mr. Kit for mentoring him throughout his acting journey!
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Meet THE CAST
RUTH JOHNSON (Siobhan) This performance is dedicated to James Henry Lane with love, from Mamaw.
RUTH KENNEDY (Ensemble Voice) is thrilled to be making her debut with The Naples Players! She is excited to join such a talented and welcoming community and to bring this production to life. Ruth would like to thank the creative team and cast for their support, as well as her friends and family for their constant encouragement. She hopes you enjoy the show!
JOCH LUZARRAGA (Ensemble Voice/Roger Shears) was last seen on stage in the waning years of the 20th century as a company member at the Shakespeare Theater at the Folger in DC. After a long and distinguished career as a disgruntled attorney, Joch is delighted to be returning to the stage in his first role with TNP. He also directs student productions of Shakespeare in Ave Maria. He is deeply grateful to his wife Brigid for her endless patience and support, and for encouraging him to step back onto the boards once more.
LINDA MIZEUR (Ensemble Voice/Mrs. Gascoyne) is thrilled to be working with such a talented cast and crew in this wonderful production. At TNP, she last appeared in the original play Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat! Other roles at TNP include Della/The Cake; Charlie/Always a Bridesmaid; pick-a-little lady Maud Dunlop/The Music Man; the ensemble of Love, Loss and What I Wore; the ensemble of The Vagina Monologues; and in the Readers Theatre program, including the RT Road Show. She has also appeared at the Bonita Center for the Arts in their Staged Readings and Funny Shorts. She has been on stage in numerous comedies, dramas and musicals in upstate New York, and her native Kansas City. Much love to her husband Jim for his incredible support throughout the years.
TOM REX (Ensemble Voice) is very excited to be back on stage with TNP in this incredible production. He was last seen as Stanley in last season’s Death of a Salesman. Other TNP stage credits include Rumors, A Christmas Carol, Mary Poppins,
Footloose in Baker Park, Becky’s New Car, Escanaba in da Moonlight, and Readers Theatre. He has also trained with TNP and worked backstage. Recent stage credits with The Studio Players include Superior Donuts, Nuts, Circle Mirror Transformation, and Don’t Talk to the Actors. He has also performed virtually for Loud Voices Silent Streets, a production company and worldwide artistic community. Tom would like to thank his wife, Deb, and their dog, Lola, for their continued support.
KELLY ROSSBERG (Ed) Training: RADA, MXAT, and University of Cincinnati-CCM (BFA). After school, he moved around acting all over from NYC and Alaska to Denver, North Florida, and Salt Lake City. Recently seen at TNP as The Beadle/ Sweeney Todd , Uncle Max/The Sound of Music, and Saint Aphrodisius/The Hunchback of Notre Dame. 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, and Robert/Boeing Boeing. Vanessa, thank you for making me my best self and for being the absolute love of my life; you’re everything to me!
ROSEANN RUGGIERO (Ensemble Voice/Mrs. Shears) With over 50 years of experience in theater in the NY tri-state area, Roseann started working with TNP in 2020 and has not stopped. Favorite roles include: Princess Puffer/Drood , Mother Superior/Nunsense, and Old Actor/Henry/The Fantasticks. After directing Almost, Maine last season, she is thrilled to be back on the stage at TNP working with this incredibly talented creative team and group of performers. Roseann hopes to continue performing and directing with TNP.
SUSAN VOBEJDA (Ensemble Voice/Mrs. Wise) is a retired corporate executive who recently rediscovered her childhood love of acting and the theater. After performing last year with TNP Readers Theatre, Susan is delighted to join this amazing cast and crew for her first stage production in Naples. Prior to her involvement with TNP, Susan appeared in The Wolves while attending Stanford University as a Distinguished Career Institute fellow. When not in Naples, Susan trains in acting and singing in New York City.
Difference is Not Dangerous
At its core, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is not just a play about autism. It is a play about what it feels like to be human in a world that often overwhelms us. It is a journey through fear, through discovery, and ultimately through the courage it takes to keep moving forward when the world feels uncertain. While Christopher’s experience, and this play, is shaped by autism, his journey is universal. Each of us has felt the tension between the comfort of what is known and the uncertainty of what lies ahead.
In considering this production, I kept returning to Christopher’s toy train (perseverating on it, really): that fluid,
forward motion that begins as a simple, symbolic object in Act I and escalates into the full danger and opportunity of a subway platform in Act II. That escalation in scale feels deeply relevant to me.
After all, in a time of (what feels to me like) great economic, political, and cultural uncertainty, I can’t help but see myself standing with Christopher on that platform: the world around us unfamiliar, out of control, even unsafe; yet still longing for the relief of a map, for the promise of a safe and comfortable stop ahead. Whether or not you share my view of the world today, hasn’t everyone stood on the platform of life, staring down the length of an unknown
track? Longing for the safety of certainty, but carried forward by the unstoppable train called change.
Autistic individuals describe their experiences in vivid ways: as if “ten channels are playing at once,” or as though ordinary sounds are painfully amplified. Temple Grandin reminds us, “I don’t think in language. I think in pictures.” Others speak of empathy so strong it feels paralyzing, or of the comfort found in the predictability of numbers, maps, or timetables. Autism is not a deficiency but a different operating system, one that reveals extraordinary clarity in some areas and profound challenges in others.
For Christopher, trains embody this paradox: they are safe and terrifying. They are ordered timetables and clean lines, yet also deafening, unrelenting, and larger than life. That duality is the heart of our production. The train might be the autistic brain: comforting, confounding, connecting, and always barreling forward toward what feels like chaos, whether or not we are ready.
Our job is to embrace that chaos and then, as Christopher does, reveal the beauty and clarity within it. The technical spectacle of this production is not decoration; it is
empathy in action. I want our audience not only to witness Christopher’s journey but also to feel it. Scenic might incorporate rails and switches. The ensemble might move like a living machine. Transitions could unfold to the rhythm of a soundscape—from the soft pulse of wheels to the roar of a rushing train. Lights might flicker like passing landscapes. Projections might transport us from one channel to another. And at its peak, the subway should crescendo into an overwhelming spectacle that allows the audience, if only for a moment, to inhabit Christopher’s world. (And then hopefully not write me letters about the “noise!”)
This, to me, is the gift of theatre: to move us beyond empathy into embodiment. Curious Incident invites us to step onto Christopher’s train, to share his exhilaration and his fear, to see the world through his patterns and his pictures. And in doing so, we remember that difference is not distance. Difference does not have to be dangerous. Difference is what makes us human.
His story is not apart from ours—it is ours. We are all passengers on the same track, moving forward into an uncertain (and, hopefully, extraordinary) future—together.
Meet THE CREATIVE TEAM (IN
BRYCE ALEXANDER Director
KENZIE CURRIE Stage Manager
TANIA BARRENECHEA Scenic Designer
AMY HUGHES Props Designer
MARK HADDON Author
LUIS GARCIA Projection Designer
THOMAS HARTLAND Assistant Stage Manager
ABBY MAY Lighting Designer
COURTNEY LAINE SELF Co-Director/Choreographer
DAYNE SABATOS Costume Designer
SIMON STEPHENS Playwright
ABIGAIL SPIKER Assistant Stage Manager
ALEX NEUMANN Sound Designer
BRYCE ALEXANDER (Director) is thrilled to lead the exemplary team at TNP. As a result of Bryce’s dedication to the SWFL community demonstrated through his work at The Naples Players, Bryce was called the “Champion of the Arts” by Gulfshore Life Magazine in 2020, and “Man of the Year” in 2021. He was also named one of Collier County’s Top 100 most influential business leaders by Naples Illustrated in 2022, 2023, and 2024; and listed in Gulfshore Business’ “40 Under 40” in 2022. In the community, Bryce is a member of the Advisory Council for Leadership Collier at the Naples Chamber of Commerce and was the Chair of the Collier County Emergency Medical Authority. His wife, Katie, continues to serve as the foundation of his success.
TANIA BARRENECHEA (Scenic Designer) is a Peruvian architect and Scenic Designer in Poughkeepsie, NY where she is also a professor at Vassar College. Off Broadway/New York: MacHayden Theatre: Godspell , The Alleyway Theatre: The Folks at Home. Regionally: Northern Stage: Amelie: The Musical , Duluth Playhouse: Disney’s Frozen, The Light in the Piazza , Saugatuck Center for the Arts Theatre: Million Dollar Quartet, Breckenridge Backstage Theatre: Inventing Van Gogh, Stages-Houston: Panto Alicia in Wonderland, A Case for the Existence of God , Playhouse Theatre at Penn State University: A Little Night Music, A Year with Frog and Toad, To Kill a Mockingbird .
KENZIE CURRIE (Stage Manager) currently serves as the Chief of Staff at The Naples Players. She holds a degree in Integrated Strategic Communications and Theatre Arts from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and has previously contributed her skills at renowned institutions like Children’s Theatre Company in Minnesota, Millbrook Playhouse in Pennsylvania, and Chicago Shakespeare Theater in Illinois. Kenzie is passionate about continuing to demonstrate the way theater can change the foundations of a community - and is honored to serve Collier County by doing so.
whose work uplifts marginalized voices through light, image, and collaborative storytelling. He holds an MFA from the University of Maryland, College Park. Recent credits include Furlough’s Paradise (Theatre Alliance), West Side Story (Maine State Music Theatre), Dead Inside (Woolly Mammoth), Wipeout (Studio Theatre), and Professor Woland’s Black Magic Rock Show (Spooky Action Theatre). A devoted mentor to emerging BIPOC designers, Luis is a 1/52 Project recipient and LDI “30 Under 30” honoree. IG: @luis.garcia.design
MARK HADDON (Author) Mark Haddon’s The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was published in 2003. It was the winner of more than 17 literary awards, including prizes in Japan, Holland, and Italy, and was translated into 44 languages. A Spot of Bother, published in 2006, was also an international bestseller. His first work for the theatre, Polar Bears, was produced by the Donmar Warehouse in 2010. He has written 15 books for children, published a first collection of poetry in 2005, and is an illustrator and award-winning screenwriter. Mark Haddon’s latest novel, The Porpoise, was published in 2019.
THOMAS HARTLAND (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to be an ASM for this production of The Curious Incident of The Dog in The Night-Time. Other notable shows he has worked on include Co-lighting Designer for Ride The Cyclone: High School Edition and Sound Board Operator for And Then There Where None. He thanks the cast and the crew for the work they have put in. He hopes that you enjoy the show!
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.
LUIS GARCIA (Projection Designer) (he/él) is a Peruvian-American lighting and video designer CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >
Meet THE CREATIVE TEAM
ABBY MAY (Lighting Designer) is very excited to return to The Naples Players (Sweeney Todd, The Cake, The Sound of Music) with this production! 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
ALEX NEUMANN (Sound Designer) Alex is an NYC-based sound designer. His credits include: Broadway: Into the Woods, over 20 shows as associate designer. National Tours: Into the Woods, Fiddler on the Roof, The King and I. New York City Center Encores!: Pal Joey, Oliver!, Into the Woods. Off-Broadway: Death Let Me Do My Show, Walk on Through, The Atheist. Regional: Sense and Sensibilit y (American Repertory Theatre, Portland Center Stage). Bus Stop, The Atheist (Huntington Theatre Company), Ether Dome (Alley Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, Hartford Stage, Huntington Theatre Company), 39 Steps (Olney Theatre Center), Cabaret, Million Dollar Quartet (Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Events/Other: Drama Desk Awards (2017-2019), A Tribute to the Presidential Scholars (Kennedy Center, 2016-2019). Footloose (Norwegian Cruise Lines). Awards: Tony nominee, Drama Desk winner: Into the Woods www.soundsneu.com
DAYNE SABATOS (Costume Designer) is a Kansas native and multidisciplinary artist. After several years of freelancing across the country, he is excited to be joining the crew as a permanent fixture here at The Naples Players. Often working behind the scenes to help create the beautiful costumes you see onstage, Dayne has a passion for teaching his craft and working with the amazing volunteers at TNP. Some of his past design credits at TNP include Ada and the Engine, The Cake, The Game’s Afoot, and By The Way, Meet Vera Stark. He loves weird art and good cheese.
COURTNEY LAINE SELF (Co-Director/Choreographer) is a professional director/choreographer based out of NYC. Favorite credits include the regional theatre premiere of Fun Home, the World Premiere of Sheila and Moby in DC, winning the Samuel French Festival at The Vineyard Theatre, and the World Premiere of The Tunnel Play in the NY Intl Fringe. Her Associate Director credits include Oliver! at the Goodspeed Opera House and Proof of Love Off-Broadway. She was the SDCF Observer for the pre-Broadway workshop of Big Fish. Previously, Courtney was a professor of Theatre and Dance at Southern Illinois Univ., the Director of Education at Duluth Playhouse in MN, and is currently the Director of Theatre at New Jersey Inst. of Technology. MFA: Directing, Southern Illinois Univ.; BFA: Music Theatre, The Hartt School. courtneylaineself.com
ABIGAIL SPIKER (Assistant Stage Manager) is excited to be taking on the role of assistant stage manager for the production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, alongside Thomas Hartland! Abi has worked crew for A Christmas Story and The Play that Goes Wrong, was ASM for Hadestown: Teen Edition and Beetlejuice JR , and stage managed High School Musical JR! She is happy to be part of this wonderful team and hopes you enjoy the show!
SIMON STEPHENS (Playwright) has written many plays that have been translated into more than 30 languages and produced all over the world. He is a professor of playwriting at Manchester Metropolitan University, an associate playwright at the Royal Court Theatre, the artistic associate at the Lyric Hammersmith in London, and the Steep Associate Playwright at Steep Theatre in Chicago.
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Life in Naples Life in Naples
Our VOLUNTEER HEART
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION | 2025
Thank you to these amazing volunteers who continued to give of their time and talents this past season.
We could not have done it without you.
500+ HOURS
Gwen Bettini
Braxton Cabrera
Sherlay Cajuste
Christian DeSalvo
Edison Filner
Linda Friis
250 - 499 HOURS
LJ An
Leo Benander-McKay
Lisa Bill
Ladd Boris
Alyssa Bradshaw
Maddie Brendel
Dede Brownlee
JamieLynn Bucci
Jody Cameron
Lexi Camina
Peter Caporal
Robert Cappetta
Patti Caroli
Tina Cedras
Lexii Clemons
Grace Condit
Katharine Condit
William Condit
Lisa K. Gunn
Thomas Hartland
Nancy Hayer
Maria Hernandez
John McGonigle
Frank Messana
Peggy Monson
Brady Patterson
Patricia Puia
Matthew Schwabauer
Christina Skibicki
Jean Snyder
Abigail Spiker
Michael Troop
Alessa Vazquez
Jack Weld
Fred Willig
Belinda Conigliaro
Christian Conn
James Corsica
Thomas Currie
Jon Declet
Vivienne Engelmann
Joseph Femia
Cindy Finegan
Kady Finegan
Kit Gorritz FitzSimons
Stephanie Fowle
Kaila Francois
Mitch Frank
Noah Garcia
Alexander Garciarena
Tammy Harris
Jeannine Hedberg
Naphtaisha Jean Charles
Ruth Johnson
Kip Jones
Kristina Kavalov
Kevin Kenneally
Steve Lee
Terry Libby
Russel Loyet
Karen McGonigle
John McKerrow
Sydney Mixon
Brian Muniz
Sydney Ott
Joyce Perl
Matias Piscoya Fernandez
Victoria Rinaldi
Isabella Rosato
Kelly Rossberg
Vanessa Rossberg
Roseann Ruggiero
Hannah Schumacher
Judy Scribner
Olivia Silverio
Eric Sivertsen
Jeff Smith
Marjorie Smith
Mila Stanisic
Colton Townsend
Landon Townsend
Malena Tucker
Alyssa Turner
Dylan Turner
Aseem Upadhyay
Lynne Vela
Perry Ventro
Carter Zgonina
GET INVOLVED
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!
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!
Staff & LEADERSHIP
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ROBIN BACHE GRAY President
DENNY GLASS Vice President
OTTO IMMEL
Secretary
BOB UEK Treasurer
ALAN JAFFE 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
