“There is nothing that compares to an unexpected round of applause…”MARCH 2026ISSUE 41FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSEHOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESSWITHOUT REALLY TRYINGMARCH 1, 2026EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATREMY FAIR LADYMARCH 1 & MARCH 6 - 8, 2026BEYOND THE WINGS THEATERTOO MANY DETECTIVESAT THE MURDER MANSIONMARCH 6 - 8, 2026WEST COAST PLAYERSTHE CURIOUS SAVAGEMARCH 6 - 22, 2026GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERSQUARTETMARCH 12 - 22, 2026TARPON ARTSTHE LAST FIVE YEARSMARCH 13, 2026FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSETHE MIRACLE WORKERMARCH 19 - 29, 2026ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATRETHE PRINCE OF EGYPTMARCH 27 - APRIL 5, 2026
It’s a FULL agenda for shows in March!!!*******************************https://rsvp.online/nncniy See you later on the Boards, Val Sanford DON’T FORGET -MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS FOR THE APPLAUSECOMMUNITY THEATRE BANQUET9/20/26SEE INFO ON PAGE 3205Days to Go!!
PLEASE NOTE: Reservations (including “Maybe”) cannot be held until payment is received. Thanks!
AUDITIONS THEATRE: WEST COAST PLAYERSPLAY/MUSICAL: The WanderersBy Anna ZieglerAUDITION DATES: Auditions will be held on March 7 @ 2:00 pm and March 8 at 6:00 pm at the theatre, 21905 USHwy 19 N in Clearwater.PRODUCTION DATES: Performances are April 24 - May 10, 2026 on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm, with an additional 2:00 pm matinee on Saturday May 2.DIRECTOR: Susan DemersSynopsis: Two marriages have seemingly little in common: Esther and Schmuli are Orthodox Jews navigating strictly defined rules and roles, while Sophie and Abe are secular and free to make their own choices. But both couples are growing apart as they strive to balance their individual identities with the families they’ve created. As Esther tests the boundaries of her personal freedom, Abe falls into a correspondence with a movie star that will shake the foundations of his marriage and career. This funny, moving and thoughtful play asks if following one’s truth is worth it, no matter the cost.Cast of Characters:Esther - A young, Orthodox Jewish woman in an arranged marriage who begins to question the constraints of her religious and social life.Schmuli - Esther’s husband, also Orthodox, who grapples with traditional expectations of masculinity and his own gentleness.Sophie - A secular woman, married to Abe, who is also a writer but struggles with her career and the demands of family life.Abeemail correspondence with Julia Cheever, a movie star.Julia Cheeverlife through an email exchange, prompting him to question his own life choices.What To PrepareCold read from scripts. Cast needs to have an affinity for both comedy and drama. Please complete an online audition form prior to the audition. The form is available at: No performers paid.The Wanderers Auditions (cont
Abe - Sophie’s husband, a successful novelist, who begins an email correspondence with Julia Cheever, a movie star.Julia Cheever - A famous actress who becomes involved in Abe’s life through an email exchange, prompting him to question his own life choices.What To Prepare:Cold read from scripts. Cast needs to have an affinity for both comedy and drama. Please complete an online audition form prior to the audition. The form is available at: https://www.wcptheater.com/wanderersNo performers paid.The Wanderers Auditions (cont’d)
AUDITIONS THEATRE: ST. PETERSBURG SUNSHINE SENIORCENTER PLAYERSPLAY/MUSICAL: Radio Daze By David MiddletonAUDITION DATES: Auditions are Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 9:30 to 12 noon. PRODUCTION DATES: Production dates are May 14, 15, 16 and 17, 2026, with matinees on the 14th, 16th and 17th. The 15th is an evening performance. St. Petersburg Sunshine Senior Center, 330 5th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Call 727-893-7133 or visit the website. PLAYWRIGHT & DIRECTOR: David MiddletonThe Sunshine Senior Center Players are gearing up for Radio Daze, a whirlwind backstage comedy set in a 1940s radio studio where everything that can go wrong absolutely does.This time around, the spotlight falls on blustering smalltime mobster Louie LaTour, who insists that the dazzling, if questioningly gifted, Trixie DuMont be elevated to instant stardom. From that moment on, the station’s staff scrambles to keep their live broadcast from collapsing in spectacular fashion. Tempers flare, sound cues go haywire, romance blossoms, and chaos waits behind every mic stand.A lively salute to the golden age of radio, Radio Daze blends nostalgia, music, and rapid-fire comedy as the show races forward with hilarious momentum.Please note that rehearsals will be held at the Sunshine Senior Center on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:30 am to 12:00 noon starting on March 19th.Auditions will be readings from the script. All songs will be artfully lip synced.
THEATRE: EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATREPLAY/MUSICAL My Fair Lady By Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick PRODUCTION DATES: March 1 & March 6 - 8, 2026, at Central Park Performing Arts Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL 33771 http://www.eightoclocktheatreDIRECTOR: Ashlie TimberlakeEliza Doolittle is a young flower seller with an unmistakable Cockney accent which keeps her in the lower rungs of Edwardian society. When Professor Henry Higgins tries to teach her how to speak like a proper lady, an unlikely friendship begins to flourish. When Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady opened on Broadway, it collected six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, while the film version took home eight Oscars, including Best Picture. This timeless musical boasts a score which includes: “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?,” “With a Little Bit of Luck,” “The Rain in Spain,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.” Don’t miss this incredible musical by which all other musicals are measured! CHARACTER ACTOR CASTEliza Doolittle Baylee RobertsHenry Higgins Max CarleyColonel Pickering David W. CollinsAlfred Doolittle David RussellFreddy Eynsford-Hill Michael SporckMrs. Higgins Victoria BaumannMrs. Pearce Sarah LibesMrs. Eynsford-Hill Gloria MoranskiHarry TJ VenierisJamie Rick CoatesMrs. Hopkins Ann RhodyEnsembleLindsey Bowman, Aaron Bray, Marco Camuzzi, Cornelius Coughlin, Jr., Dwayne Delong, Sophie Fischer,Emma Foroutan, Mark Kantzler, Samantha Lutz, Brenna Miller, Natalie Ness, Sara Pierce, Sophia Pitts, Stephanie Porto, Ann Rhody, Chelsea Scourtes, John Segars, and Alexandra WeissbachCAST LIST
THEATRE: WEST COAST PLAYERSPLAY/MUSICAL The Curious Savage By John Patrick PRODUCTION DATES: March 6 - 22, 2026, at the theatre at 21905 US 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33765Shows are on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm. There is an additional Saturday matinee on March 14. DIRECTOR: Rick BronsonThe Curious Savage is a play about Ethel Savage, a wealthy widow who, instead of distributing her inheritance to her stepchildren as they expect, establishes a trust fund for the “kindly, foolish, and neglected” patients of The Cloisters, a sanatorium.CHARACTER ACTOR CASTFairy May Anne PedersenFlorence Jill FinlaysonHannibal Jared ThomasJeffrey Sean HigginsMiss Willie Briana RitterspornLily Belle Suzy DelaneyTitus Greg GarbersSamuel Todd SengstackDr. Emmett Rebecca FillmoreMrs. Paddy Cynthia HoffmanEthel Savage Donna DonnellyCAST LIST
THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSEPLAY/MUSICAL How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying By Frank Loesser and book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock, and Willie Gilbert PRODUCTION DATES: March 1, 2026, at the theatre, 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater, FL 33755DIRECTOR: Jason FortnerMUSICAL DIRECTOR: Emi StefanovSTAGE MGR.: Colleen Boylan JulianoThe story concerns young, ambitious J. Pierrepont Finch, who, with the help of the book How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, rises from window washer to chairman of the board of the World Wide Wicket Company. The musical opened at the 46th Street Theatre on Broadway in October 1961, running for 1,417 performances. The show won seven Tony Awards, the New York Drama Critics' Circle award, and the 1962 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.CHARACTER ACTOR CASTCHJ. Pierrepont Finch Owen StewartRosemary Nicole LodgeBud Frump Alex LodgeSmitty Emily SzymanskiJ. B. Biggley Jerry SlutzskyHedy LaRue Alex PerezMiss Jones Mary Anne BooneTwimble/Womper Tony SchmittGatch/Ovington Brian HarveyMiss Krumholtz Janet AndoMr. Bratt Alex JulianoPlus a large assortment of Executives, Secretaries, Pirates and more including: Paul Foisy, Jeffrey Preil, Margaret Boylan, Kes Whalen, Scarlett Driver, Mark Kantzler, Kevin Nurnberger, Amie Vlcej, Laura Christie, Emma Jane Barrow and Tim BlakelyCAST LIST
THEATRE: GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERSPLAY/MUSICAL Quartet By Ronald Harwood PRODUCTION DATES: March 12 - 22, 2026 at the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Avenue, Gulfport, FL 33707DIRECTOR: Mike NowerThis bittersweet comedy is set in a retirement home for musicians. It centers on four opera singers, once a celebrated quartet, who reunite to perform a concert celebrating Verdi's birthday. The arrival of Jean, a former star and Reginald's ex-wife, disrupts the established dynamics and stirs up old rivalries and unresolved feelings. Quartet explores the themes of aging, forgiveness, love, and friendship. The play culminates in a performance in which the quartet lip-syncs to their past performance of \"Rigoletto.\" CHARACTER ACTOR CASTJean Olga KruseCissy Anne MurrenReggie Sam DePriestWilf Donald SpeirsTickets $20 online at www.gulfportcommunityplayers.orgCAST LIST
THEATRE: ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATREPLAY/MUSICAL The Prince of Egypt By Stephen Schwartz, and Philip LaZebnik PRODUCTION DATES: March 27 - April 5, 2026 at the theatre - 4025 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712DIRECTOR: Nicholas MooreMUSIC DIRECTOR: Dawne EubanksCHOREOGRAPHER: Patrizia PlanzoExperience the epic journey of Moses like never before. Featuring the sweeping score by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Godspell), this breathtaking musical brings the story of The Prince of Egypt to life with soaring melodies, powerful storytelling, and a message of hope and freedom. A visually stunning finale to our season, this show is perfect for audiences of all ages. CHARACTER ACTOR CASTMoses Zackary GrantRamses Dylan DamesTzipporah Courtney CooperNefertari Krystle PittsPharoah Seti Bill ShidelerQueen Tuya Angelina SamrenyHotep David GallagherAaron Stephon Mikell, Jr.Yocheved Rachael McCannMiriam Veronica WhiteYoung Miriam Bella BonnerJethro Alex WatkinsLeah Kennedy PerriKeturah Zoe Lazanowski EnsembleJanet Ando, Geraldo Atiles, Mary Blazier, Rebecca Buete, Rei Capote, Caron Davis, Jessie Deggans, Cameron Feldman, Henry Godet, Jose Gonzalez, Gabriella Hills, Kat Kirchman, Taylor Landau, Samantha Lee, Mayaline Martinez, Christian McCormick-McNeil, Merry Milton, Xavier Molina, Miranda Reyes, Corey Shortt, Dustin Trafton, Xciana Vega, and Vaughn WassmerCAST LIST
THEATRE: SAGESPLAY/MUSICAL Deal MakerPRODUCTION DATES: April 11-26 Shows at 2 pm withFree Admission. See details below for dates or contactSAGES at [email protected]: Rachel FennellSTAGE MGR: Hannah MartinA free must-see One-Act Comedy will have you laughing as “Bob,” the family patriarch, tries to hold onto the car keys by making deals in exchange for silence about his mishaps.Family friendly and handicapped accessible. Reservations recommended. Visit www.sagestheater.org and click red banner at top to be guaranteed seats. Doors Open at 1:00 PM. Walk-ins welcome at 1:45 PM.Locations: Sat April 11, The Beach Theatre, St. Petersburg BeachSat April 18, Ruth Eckerd Hall Murray Theatre, ClearwaterSun April 26, St. Petersburg City Theatre, St. PetersburgCHARACTER ACTOR CASTBob Michael Lee LocklairMae Maureen BeloteMatt Bill VargasAshley Aria BurkeLaura Gina SantamariaRhonda Rosemary LaCollaCurly Top Special CameoCAST LIST
THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSEPLAY/MUSICAL The Miracle WorkerBy William GibsonPRODUCTION DATES: March 19 - 29, 2026, 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM at 302 Seminole St. Clearwater, FL 33755DIRECTOR: Jason FortnerIn Tuscumbia, Alabama, an illness renders infant Helen Keller blind, deaf, and consequently mute (deaf-mute). Pitied and badly spoiled by her parents, Helen is taught no discipline and, by the age of six, grows into a wild, angry, tantrum-throwing child in control of the household. Desperate, the Kellers hire Annie Sullivan to serve as governess and teacher for their daughter. After several fierce battles with Helen, Annie convinces the Kellers that she needs two weeks alone with Helen in order to achieve any progress in the girl's education. In this time, Annie teaches Helen discipline through persistence and consistency, and language through hand signals, a double breakthrough that changes Helen's life and has a direct effect on the lives of everyone in the family. CHARACTER ACTOR CASTHelen Keller Mya SimpkinsAnnie Sullivan Erica VitelliCaptain Keller Steven HalsteadKate Keller Chelsea ScourtesJames Keller Jeffrey PreilAunt Ev Shelly FowlerDoctor / Anagnos Martin McAuliffeSupporting Cast:Madison Kalyan, Blake Kalyan, Cami Kalyan andMadeline BoggessCAST LIST
THEATRE: TARPON ARTSPLAY/MUSICAL Boeing, Boeing By Marc CamolettiPRODUCTION DATES: Friday, April 10, 2026, at 7:00 pm Performance Location:Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm Tarpon SpringsSunday, April 12, 2026, at 2:00 pm Cultural Ctr.Friday, April 17, 2026, at 7:00 pm 101 S. Pinellas Ave.Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 pm Tarpon Springs, FL Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 2:00 pm 34689Tickets On Sale Now! Tarponarts.org or call our box office 727-942-5605DIRECTOR: Lisa MalloyCHARACTER ACTOR CASTBernard Dylan HaightRobert Olivia MooreBerthe Callie GrayGloria Annie MickelGabriella Kelly McPartlandGretchen Jessie KillbourneTHE STORY: One of the most successful comedies in theatre history, Boeing Boeing is a fast-paced romantic farce full of mistaken timing, slamming doors, and escalating surprises. Set in 1960s Paris, the play follows Bernard, a confident bachelor whose life runs like clockwork - including his romantic life.Thanks to a carefully planned schedule, Bernard is engaged to three international flight attendants, each blissfully unaware of the others. But when airline schedules change and an old friend pays a visit, Bernard’s perfectly ordered world begins to spin out of control. What follows is a joyful whirlwind of near-misses, quick thinking, and comic chaos as everyone tries to keep up - and keep secrets - while the situation becomes increasingly impossible.CAST LIST
Performance Location:THEATRE: EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATREPLAY/MUSICAL Crazy for YouBy Ken Ludwig and Ira & George GershwinPRODUCTION DATES: May 1 - 10, 2026 at Central Park Performing Arts Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL www.eightoclocktheatre.comDIRECTOR: James GrenelleMUSICAL DIRECTOR: Jason TuckerCHOREOGRAPHER: Amy Fee A zany rich-boy-meets-hometown-girl romantic comedy, Crazy For You tells the story of young New York banker Bobby Child, who is sent to Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a rundown theatre. In Deadrock, Bobby falls for spunky Polly Baker, the theatre owner’s daughter. But Polly takes an instant dislike to the city slicker, so Bobby vows – through cunning, razzmatazz, and a hilarious case of mistaken identity – to win Polly’s heart and save the theatre. Memorable Gershwin tunes from the score include “I Got Rhythm,” “Naughty Baby,” “They Can’t Take That Away from Me,” “Embraceable You,” “But Not for Me,” “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and “Someone to Watch Over Me.” This huge blockbuster musical features tap dancing, hilarity, and gorgeous Follies girls! Don’t miss this 1992 Tony Award for Best Musical!CHARACTER / ACTOR CAST CHARACTER / ACTOR CAST Bobby Child / Domenic Bisesti Billy / Steven FoxPolly Baker / Kayley Jewel Wyatt / Jay HetherlyLank Hawkins / Michael Sporck Custis / Ken LeistIrene Roth / Paige Sporck Pete / Arbie IgnacioBela Zangler / Bill Rolon Harry / Tony SchmittEverett Baker / Chaz Merkel Sheila / Jackie DeppnerLottie Child / Susan Leirer Elaine / Jenelle VinachiEugene Fodor / Rick Coates Mitzi / Lydia ChallengerPatricia Fodor / Lisa Prieto Margie / Caitlyn DardichTess / Hope Lelekacs Betsy / Lauren DykesPatsy / Emma Jane Barrow Vera / Julia CheesemanMoose / Jeff Lukas Susie / Kendall KayMingo / Matthew MorrisSam / TJ VenierisCAST LIST
THEATRE: EIGHT O’CLOCK THEATREPLAY/MUSICAL 1776By Sherman Edwards & Peter StonePRODUCTION DATES: July 1 - 5, 2026 at Central Park Performing Arts Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL 33771 DIRECTOR: James GrenelleMUSICAL DIRECTOR: Jason TuckerBack by popular demand, and to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Eight O'Clock Theatre is honored to return to the history books and remount their production of 1776. It's the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence... if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! 1776 follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence. 1776 puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the national icons: proud, frightened, uncertain, irritable, charming, often petty and ultimately noble figures, determined to do the right thing for a fledgling nation. 1776 is a funny, insightful and compelling drama with a striking score and legendary book. Find out how we came to be with a promise of hope and new beginnings. Vote “Aye” on this Tony Award for Best Musical!CAST LIST
CHARACTER ACTOR CASTBernard Dylan HaightRobert Olivia MooreBerthe Callie GrayGloria Annie MickelGabriella Kelly McPartlandGretchen Jessie KillbourneBack by popular demand, and to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of return to declare independence... if only our founding fathers can agree to do follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration puts a human face on the pages of history as we see the men behind the national icons: proud, irritable, charming, often petty and ultimately noble figures, determined to do the right thing for is a funny, insightful and compelling drama with a striking score and legendary book. Find out how we came to be with a promise of hope and new on this Tony Award for Best 1776 (cont’d)CHARACTER ACTOR CASTJohn Adams Jonathan PouliotBenjamin Franklin Ben TaylorThomas Jefferson Billy MasuckJohn Dickinson DJ SchuettEdward Rutledge Stephen FeeAbigail Adams Lisa PrietoRichard Henry Lee Alan Mohney, Jr.Martha Jefferson Amy FeeJohn Hancock Jerry SlutzkyCharles Thomson Brian YarbroughJames Wilson Rick LaitenbergerRobert Livingston Sam DiRosaRoger Sherman Jeffrey M. LukasStephen Hopkins Ron ZietzGeorge Mead Nathan DaughertyLewis Morris Christopher StrongJoseph Hewes David W. CollinsCaesar Rodney Mike ArnoldThomas McKean TJ GillDr. Lyman Hall Rick CoatesAndrew McNair Stu SanfordSamuel Chase Chaz MerkelRev. Jonathan Witherspoon David O’BrienJosiah Bartlett Christopher CarmichaelCourier Steven FoxLeather Apron/Painter Neil TrivitayakhunVisit http://www.eightoclocktheatre for more informationEnd ofArticle
THEATRE: BEYOND THE WINGS THEATERPLAY/MUSICAL Too Many Detectives at the Murder MansionBy Ian McWethyPRODUCTION DATES: March 6 - 8, 2026, 7PM (3/6 & 7) and 3PM on 3/8 at 9025 49th Street N, Pinellas Park, FL 33782DIRECTOR: Maureen KeplingerSure, you think you've seen this type of murder mystery before. A cast of eccentric characters meet at a mansion, only to become suspects of a murder that a singular genius detective will eventually solve. But what happens when all the suspects are the detectives? Sherlock Holmes, Nancy Drew, Miss Marple, and Batman are just a few of the guests. Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion is a whodunnit that will leave you laughing and guessing right until the very end - and there are three different endings to choose from! CHARACTER ACTOR CASTFANCY CRAZY LADYMadam Doyle Tiffany WerthDETECTIVESDetective Kane Tiffany WerthDetective Christie Candice KruseFAMOUS DETECTIVESBatman Levi SloanMiss Marple Barb GasperSam Spade Roxanne KadiamSherlock Holmes Roxanne KadiamCAST LIST
Sure, you think you've seen this type of murder mystery before. A cast of eccentric characters meet at a mansion, only to become suspects of a murder that a singular genius detective will eventually solve. But what happens when all Sherlock Holmes, Nancy Drew, Miss Marple, and Batman are Too Many Detectives at the Murder is a whodunnit that will leave you laughing and and there are three CHARACTER ACTOR CASTBernard Dylan HaightRobert Olivia MooreBerthe Callie GrayGloria Annie MickelGabriella Kelly McPartlandGretchen Jessie KillbourneToo Many Detectives... (cont’d)CHARACTER ACTOR CASTFAMOUS TEEN DETECTIVESNancy Drew Phoenix KeplingerFrank Hardy Cora JulianJoe Hardy Angelo MedinaMYSTERY INC.Velma Roxanne KadiamFred Dustin RobinsonDaphne Molly WardShaggy Sidney KadiamScooby Angelo MedinaTHE MURDER FANSAggie Cora JulianBobbi Lev SloanHannah Doreen SloanConan Nora HicksDash Leah BecerrilOFFSTAGE JUDGY VOICE911 Operator Teresa Richardson /Josh PaulEnd ofArticle
THEATRE: TARPON ARTSPLAY/MUSICAL The Last Five Years By Jason Robert BrownPRODUCTION DATES: March 13, 2026 at Tarpon Springs Cultural Center, 101 S. Pinellas Avenue, TS 34689DIRECTOR: Antonia WestTarpon Arts is proud to partner with the Tarpon Springs High School Theatre Department to present a special oneact version of The Last Five Years on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 7:00 pm at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center (101 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689). This awardwinning student production earned top honors at the District Thespian Competition and will serve as a showcase performance as the cast prepares for the State Thespian Championship. Audiences are invited to experience this intimate, emotionally charged musical in a focused one-act format that highlights the depth, artistry, and maturity of these student storytellers.Synopsis:The Last Five Years is a two-person musical that chronicles the rise and fall of a five-year relationship between novelist Jamie Wellerstein and actress Cathy Hiatt. Told through intersecting timelines—with Jamie moving forward in time and Cathy moving backward - their stories meet at a single moment, offering a raw and emotionally honest portrait of love, ambition, and missed connections.“It is rare to witness this level of onstage maturity in high school performers, and we are beyond thrilled to present this piece to the public,” said Antonia West, Tarpon Springs High School Theatre Director and Social Studies Teacher. “This production was a true collaboration of creative student minds, impressing District competition judges so deeply that they stopped writing notes altogether and simply watched with joyful tears.”CAST LIST
Tarpon Arts is proud to partner with the Tarpon Springs -act version of The Last Five Years on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 7:00 pm at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center (101 -winning student production earned top honors at the District Thespian Competition and will serve as a showcase performance as the cast prepares for the State Thespian Championship. Audiences are invited to experience this act format that highlights the depth, artistry, and maturity of person musical that chronicles year relationship between novelist Jamie Wellerstein and actress Cathy Hiatt. Told through inwith Jamie moving forward in time and their stories meet at a single moment, offering a raw and emotionally honest portrait of It is rare to witness this level of onstage maturity in high school performers, and we are beyond thrilled to present said Antonia West, Tarpon Springs This production was a true collaboration of creative student minds, impressing District competition judges so deeply that they stopped writing notes altogether and simply CHARACTER ACTOR CASTBernard Dylan HaightRobert Olivia MooreBerthe Callie GrayGloria Annie MickelGabriella Kelly McPartlandGretchen Jessie KillbourneThe Last Five Years (cont’d)CHARACTER ACTOR CASTCathy Hiatt Angelina AndersonGriffin Abrams Jamie WellersteinCreative & Production TeamStudent Director / Stage Manager: Faye CollordDirector: Antonia WestAssistant Director: Jessica MoratonSound Engineer: Amelie TrujilloBackstage Crew: Mario Sanchez, Jelissa Matos, Aleksander Donoghue, Zoey DavisonTickets: Reserved Seating: $15 | Tarpon Arts Member Reserved Seating: $13. Tickets are available for purchase online at TarponArts.org or through the Tarpon Arts Ticket Office, locatedinside the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum (100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689). The ticket office is open Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Phone: (727) 942-5605Join us for a special performance that celebrates exceptional local student artists while experiencing a powerful, thoughtfullystaged musical production in an intimate setting. ******************************About Tarpon Arts: Tarpon Arts enriches the cultural life of Tarpon Springs through dynamic programming in the performing arts, visual arts, community theatre, heritage preservation, and educational events. As part of the City of Tarpon Springs Cultural & Civic Services Department, Tarpon Arts operates four historic and cultural venues, providing year-round entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike.End ofArticle
THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSEPLAY/MUSICAL GreaseBy Jim Jacobs and Warren CaseyPRODUCTION DATES: April 30 - May 17, 2026 at the theatre, 302 Seminole Street, Clearwater, FL 33755DIRECTOR: Jason FortnerMUSICAL DIRECTOR: Nathan DaughertySTAGE MANAGER: Emily SzymanskiNamed after the 1950s United States working-class youth subculture known as greasers and set in 1959 at the fictional Rydell High School in Northwest Chicago (based on Taft High School in Chicago, Illinois, and named after rock singer Bobby Rydell), the musical follows ten workingclass teenagers as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values, and love. CHARACTER ACTOR CASTKenickie Drew EberhardDanny Landon StylesDoody William HarrisRoger Jeffrey PreilEugene. Jaxton D'RionSandy Makailyn BarryJan Scarlett DriverMarty SaraRose HellerRizzo Lena WigfallFrenchie Chloe AdairPatty Kes WhalenChaCha Ava PetrignaniMs. Lynch Karen TaylorAnd other roles to be announcedCAST LIST
Broadway Trivia Questions 1) Referring to then-future president John Adams, the songs \"Sit Down, John\" and \"But, Mr. Adams\" come from what Broadway musical named for an important year in American history?2) Before \"Hamilton\" was a worldwide sensation, Lin-Manuel Miranda was best known for writing the music for what musical, which opened on Broadway in 2008, and detailed the lives of Dominican-Americans in the neighborhood of the title?3) With over 10,000 performances, what spooky performance is the longest running show in Broadway history?4) What 2004 smash-hit teen comedy movie opened as a musical on Broadway in Spring 2018? The Hollywood Reporter noted in its review that one character changed from an \"imperious arbiter of high school hotness to fullblown arch villainess.\"5) Jake Gyllenhaal and Denzel Washington took to Broadway in the spring of 2025 with Denzel in the title role of what classic Shakespeare tragedy?6) Born in Sacramento, Adrienne Barbeau became famous for her role in the Broadway Musical “Grease,” playing which character?7) Traveling salesman Harold Hill declares his love for Marian Paroo in the song \"Marian the Librarian\" in what classic Broadway musical?Answers are on Page 26
ON THE BOARDS - MARCH 2026 FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE - HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING Ambitious J. Pierrepont Finch, who, with the help of the book How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, rises from window washer to chairman of the board of the World Wide Wicket Company. March 1, 2026 Directed by Jason Fortnerhttp://franciswilsonplayhouse.orgWEST COAST PLAYERS - THE CURIOUS SAVAGE Ethel P. Savage is an elderly woman whose husband recently died and left her approximately ten million dollars. Contrasting the kindness and loyalty of psychiatric patients with the avarice and vanity of \"respectable\" public figures, it calls into question conventional definitions of sanity while lampooning celebrity culture.March 6 - 22, 2026 Directed by Rick Bronsonhttp://wcplayers.orgEIGHT O’CLOCK THEATRE - MY FAIR LADY The story, based on George Bernard Shaw's 1913 play Pygmalion and on the 1938 film adaptation of the play, concerns Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from professor Henry Higgins, phonetician, so that she may pass as a lady. Despite his cynical nature and difficulty understanding women, Higgins grows attached to her. March 1 & March 6 - 8, 2026 Directed by Ashlie Timberlake http://eightoclocktheatre.comBEYOND THE WINGS THEATER - TOO MANY DETECTIVES AT THE MURDER MANSION Sure, you think you've seen this type of murder mystery before. A cast of eccentric characters meet at a mansion, only to become suspects of a murder that a singular genius detective will eventually solve. But what happens when all the suspects are the detectives? March 6 - 8, 2026 Directed by Maureen Keplingerhttp://beyondthewingstheater.org
ON THE BOARDS - MARCH 2026GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS - QUARTET The setting is a retirement home for musicians. Three elderly former opera-singers, who often worked together, are sitting out on the terrace. Reginald is quietly reading a serious book, but jovial, priapic Wilfred is chuckling about sex, as he regards Cissy, lying back and listening to music through her headphones. Is there any chance that these four will ever sing together again? March 12 - 22, 2026 Directed by Mike Nower http://gulfportcommunityplayers.comTARPON ARTS - THE LAST FIVE YEARS The Last Five Years is a two-person musical that chronicles the rise and fall of a five-year relationship between novelist Jamie Wellerstein and actress Cathy Hiatt. Told through intersecting timelines—with Jamie moving forward in time and Cathy moving backward - their stories meet at a single moment, offering a raw and emotionally honest portrait of love, ambition, and missed connections.March 13, 2026 Directed by Antonia West http://tarponarts.orgFRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE - THE MIRACLE WORKER An illness renders infant Helen Keller blind, deaf, and consequently mute. Pitied and badly spoiled by her parents, Helen is taught no discipline and, by the age of six, grows into a wild, angry, tantrum-throwing child in control of the household. Desperate, the Kellers hire Annie Sullivan to serve as Helen’s governess and teacher.March 19 - 29, 2026 Directed by Jason Fortner http://franciswilsonplayhouse.orgST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATRE - THE PRINCE OF EGYPTA stage musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, and a book by Philip LaZebnik. Based on the Book of Exodus with songs from the DreamWorks Animation 1998 film of the same name, the musical follows the life of Moses from being a prince of Egypt to his ultimate destiny of leading the Children of Israel out of Egypt. Starting from a workshop in 2015, the first production was mounted in 2017 in California. A London West End production debuted in 2020. March 27 - April 5, 2026 Directed by Nicholas Moore http://spcitytheatre.org
******************************************************ANSWERS TO BROADWAY TRIVIA(from Page 23)1) 17762) In The Heights3) Phantom of the Opera4) Mean Girls5) Othello6) The Music ManDATE THEATRE SHOW AUDITIONS TIME PLAY/MUSICAL3/1 FWP √ 2 PM How To Succeed...3/1 & 6-8 EOT √ 2 PM & 8 PM My Fair Lady3/6-8 BTWT √ 3PM & 7 PM Too Many Detectives3/6 - 22 WCP √ 2 PM & 7:30 PM The Curious Savage3/7 & 8 WCP √ 2 PM & 6 PM The Wanderers3/12 - 22 GCP √ 2 PM & 8 PM Quartet3/13 TA √ 7 PM The Last Five Years3/19 SPSSCP √ 9:30 AM - Noon Radio Daze3/19 - 29 FWP √ 2 PM & 8 PM The Miracle Worker3/27 - 4/5 SPCT √ 2 PM & 7:30 PM The Prince of Egypt
MY FAIR LADYEight O’ClockTheatreStarring:Baylee Roberts (Eliza Doolittle)ANDMax Carley(Henry Higgins)
SHOW REVIEW THEATRE: FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSEPLAY/MUSICAL: How To Succeed in Business Without Really TryingThe employees at the World Wide Wicket Company are having WAY too much fun at work! I mean this is the place to be if you want laughs and singing every day at work. And our leading man, J. Pierrepont Finch, is played by Owen Stewart - the absolute ideal actor for this role. He can sing, dance, and act his way through an ever -present character as their newest employee. With his “How To Succeed…” at the ready for instant reference, Mr. Stewart lands his performance in each scene. He is one you keep your eyes on, he is that good! A singable favorite in Act 2 is the terrific “I Believe In You”, fervently performed by Mr. Stewart. Paired with the eternally-cute ingenue Rosemary Pilkington, played to picture-book perfection by Nicole Lodge. Ms. Lodge delivers a dynamo performance as she strives to endear herself to our hero, Finch. They have instant chemistry and act well together and independently. Kudos to each of you!Smarmy, unlikeable, and underhanded is the comic antagonist, Bud Frump. He is portrayed faultlessly by Alex Lodge. Mr. Lodge has built an ingenious character, complete with physical traits to comically assemble Mr. Frump’s appearance. His every move is deftly made to have the audience in stitches with laughter, even before he speaks a word. With cigarette ever in hand, Mr. Lodge gives a role that you will not soon forget. An actor who creates such a characterization is to be admired and treasured. Thank you for your dedication!The company president is masterfully played by Jerry Slutsky. Stern, but lovable, Mr. Slutsky sketches the embodiment of what a boss should be. And a bit of nepotism goes a long way, right? He also has terrific phone conversations with his wife. On the other side of the coin, he reveals a not-so-platonic relationship with the wonderful Alex Perez as Hedy LaRue, his paramour. With a bustline that would make Dolly Parton jealous, Ms. Perez renders a stupendous, bimbo-like specimen and plays her for all the comedy that’s there for the giving. We loved this performance!
How To Succeed... Review (cont’d)Tony Schmitt rendered Mr. Twimble/Womper classically. His rendition of “Company Way” with Mr. Stewart was immensely enjoyable. Fabulous role, fabulously played! Alexander Juliano as Mr. Bratt; Emily Szymanski as Smitty; Janet Ando as Ms. Krumphorn; and Mary Anne Boone as Ms. Jones all gave exceptional talent and believability to their characters. Your performances were exemplary. As the always-appreciated “glue” of the Ensemble cast, Emma Jane Barrow, Madeline Boggess, Margaret Boylan, Laura Christie, Scarlett Jane Driver, Paul Foisy, Kevin W. Nurnberger, Jeff Preil, Amie Vlcej, and Kes Whalen excellently created individual characters to be admired. You were model employees at WWW, and your representations were on point! Thanks so much!Thank you to musical director, Emi P. Stefanov for the most wonderful music - you kept our toes tapping and our voices humming! Costume design by Karen Taylor was spot on for the time period. Especially admired was the same dress design on the females at the same time, to the each woman’s dismay. Stage management ran smoothly, thanks to Colleen Boylan-Juliano (SM). Always a good thing… Tech crew was outstanding and your commitment is appreciated. Super thanks to director Jason Fortner who, at this evening’s show, completed the cast by filling in for two absent cast members to boot!End ofArticle“How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying”********************L to R - Alex Lodge, Alex Perez, Emily Szymanski, Owen Stewart, and Nicole Lodge
SHOW REVIEW THEATRE: ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATREPLAY/MUSICAL: Jake’s WomenExpectations can be misleading. Try as I may, it’s difficult to not have expectations. But seeing a new-tome play helps. Jake’s Women proved to be a pure delight! Funny, sensitive, and totally unexpected, it was a night to remember. Neil Simon did not disappoint. Nathaniel Beaver skillfully played Jake. Jake, imagines his ex-wife and others in his writer’s mind. They are figments of his imagination. Mr. Beaver commanded the stage while, simultaneously, exchanged talent with each and every one of his “women”. Chemistry between them was an understatement. He completely “jelled” with these characters. His acting prowess is in the superlative realm, and the audience welcomed him. Having only witnessed his prior role in the Christmas Carol radio presentation as the “foley artist”, we can see in this role that he absolutely shines! Great work!Portraying Jake’s deceased wife was Mia Frattino. What a breath of fresh air. Ms. Frattino explodes with enthusiasm in each of her scenes. Whether she appears as a young version of Julie, before her fatal accident, or as a loving mother to the Mollies, age 12 & 21, Ms. Frattino just exudes talent from every corner of her being. Natural and thorough, she was most impressive in her character. The aforementioned Mollies were played by Erin Gordon at age 12, and Alison Hare at age 21. Each of these talented actresses was outstanding.Edith, Jake’s psychiatrist, is deftly rendered by Julie Korzinik. Her comedic timing is impeccable. The scene in which she “appears” in Jake’s reverie as well as in reality on the telephone with him, is truly a poignant one. One-of-a-kind acting, Ms. Korzinik - exciting work!As Jake’s present wife, Maggie, Samantha Lee is a tour-de-force presence. Completely natural in her role, Ms. Lee brings us a character we truly feel for. Her yearning to be “herself” hits close to home for many individuals, male and female alike. Your acting gift is superior and a pleasure to witness.
Jake’s Women Review (cont’d)As Karen, Jake’s sister, Kelly McGuire is remarkable. Ms. McGuire’s timing begs for award-winning accolades, and I wish I could give her one. She more than deserves it. Beautiful, Kelly.In the second act, Jake introduces us to the ever-real date he has begun seeing. Brittni Lombardo gives us the rightfully confused Sheila. Jake has her in a spin, outlining all the fun-filled plans he has in mind for them including travel, where she should live, or moving to China, Japan, Australia, Brooklyn Heights, or Bedford Village. Ms. Lombardo demonstrates utter bewilderment during his tirade and she is just flawless. So enjoyed this performance!Director, Christine White, is “direction perfection”! You can see all the subtleties she added to the performances and they shined! Thanks to Gretchen Thompson as stage manager for keeping an organized set and backstage - you are VALUED! To a tech crew who are superlative - thank you all so much!And lastly, the set for Jake’s Women was just unbelievable. Warm colors, good use of dimensional office space, and much hard work supplied from numerous volunteers. It was magnificent!End ofArticleCast of “Jake’s Women” St. Petersburg City TheatreBack Row, L to R: Julie Korzinik, Brittni Lombardo, Samantha Lee, Mia Frattino, Kelly McGuireFront Row, L to R: Alison Hare, Nathaniel Beaver,and Erin Gordon
How are things in Glocca Morra? Is that little brook still leaping there? Does it still run down to Donny cove? Through Killybegs, Kilkerry and Kildare? Dunedin Showcase Theater (DST) Venue Actor Studio (VAS)c/o Mike Cote 5124 9th Avenue N1920 Pinehurst Road St. Petersburg, FL 33710Dunedin, FL 34698 727-822-6194727-417-0035 [email protected]@yahoo.com West Coast Players (WCP)Eight O’Clock Theatre (EOT) 21905 US 19 NorthCentral Park Perf. Arts Ctr. Clearwater, FL 33765105 Central Park Drive 727-437-2363Largo, FL 33771 http://wcplayers.orgPO Box 297, Safety Harbor, FL 34695727-587-6751 SAGES Theater (SAGES)[email protected] 727-692-0902 http://www.eightoclocktheatre.com [email protected] [email protected] http://sagestheater.orgFrancis Wilson Playhouse (FWP)302 Seminole Street Tarpon Springs Perf. Arts (TA)Clearwater, FL 33755 Tarpon Springs Cultural Center727-446-1360 101 S. Pinellas Avenuehttp://franciswilsonplayhouse.org Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 727-942-6605 http://tarponarts.orgThe Ghostlight Young Company (GYC)c/o Rachel Fennell St. Petersburg City Theatre (SPCT)3010 51st Street South 4025 31st Street SouthGulfport, FL 33707 St. Petersburg, FL 33712(978) 930-3804 727-866-2059http://www.ghostlightyc.org http://spcitytheatre.orgGulfport Community Players (GCP) GCP Performances are at:Back Door Theater Catherine Hickman Theatre1619 49th Street S 5501 27th Avenue SGulfport, FL 33707 Gulfport, FL 33707http://gulfportcommunityplayers.org “How Are Things in Glocca Morra?” ********** Finian’s Rainbow (1947)
St. Petersburg City Theatre (SPCT)”
Due to a recent misspelling in a show program, the name Martin J. McAuliffewas incorrectly printed in February’s APPLAUSE issue. The above is the proper name/spelling.
MARCH 2026 Michael Rutigliano, March 1st MaryKay Cyrus, March 2nd Susan Dearden, March 2nd David Edwards, March 5th Anne Pedersen, March 5th Eric Walby, March 6th Michelle Stratton, March 6th Mags Kavanaugh, March 10th James Cass, March 13th Mike Bruno, March 13th Alicia Spiegel, March 14th Kristin Bram Tsafatino, March 15th Aaron Holm, March 15th Graham Jones, March 15th Sarah Cox, March 16th Susan O’Gara, March 16th Annie Murren, March 18th Audrey Siegler, March 19th Justice Henry, March 21st
MARCH 2026 David Day, March 22nd Laura Banks, March 23rd Stuart Best, March 23rd Bruce Brown, March 24th Patty Smithey, March 25th Tom Orr, March 26th Ronnie Farley, March 27th Bruce Taylor, March 27th Ashlie Timberlake, March 28th Hillary Lusignan, March 28th Shianne Haily, March 30th Trent Fraebel, March 31st Dave Wladaver, March 31st Rachel Fennell, March 31st Frank Steinhour, March 31st Jay Morgan, March 31st Just a Note… The Birthday List is comprised of a monthly report from Facebook. If you have not seen yours or another friend’s birthday listed, it’s because they are not listed on my FB friends list - those are the ones pulled by FB for the report. If you wish to be included, please send me a FB Friend Request ~Val Sanford