2019 Record Breaking Year for The Naples Players

SETTING A HIGH BAR
2019 began with a record-setting $1.3 million dollars raised atthe 65th Anniversary Sapphire Soiree in January. More than 350 patrons, performers, staff, and volunteers poured their time, energy, and support into the event as hosts and season sponsors Tanya and Denny Glass led the philanthropic crowd by example. But the entire crowd was moved to tears when Patty and Jay Baker generously pledged $1 million dollars in alternating $100,000 increments. In turn the other attendees continued to pledge another $300,000 to support TNP’s mission and impact.

STRATEGIC GROWTH IN PROGRAMMING & EDUCATION
With the bar set high, the remainder of 2019 saw countless opportunities to further our connection to the Naples community. Explosive growth in education and wellness through the year led to the unique shift of key staff to continue to serve the increased demand. Former Director of Education, Craig Price, took on a new role as Director of Community Education and Wellness; narrowing his focus to further develop the inclusive, wellness, and specialty programs offered at the theater and throughout the community. The addition of well-known theater veteran Hester Kamin as the new Director of Education, with Kenzie Currie as Education Stage Manager, has cemented TNP’s  education department as a regional leader for arts education.

RECORD-SETTING SHOW SALES
On the stage, 2019 saw record-setting ticket sales, season subscriptions, and sold-out performances. Even with the seasonal nature of Naples and Southwest Florida, shows that ran in predominantly slower times of the year were sold-out in record time. Amazingly, almost 60% of our annual operating budget now comes from ticket sales. With 84% of all expenses poured right back into our programs, we are continually finding new ways to support our mission in serving the community.

MEANINGFUL PARTNERSHIPS
TNP has always relied on the generosity of individual and corporate partnerships to sponsor shows, events, and activities. In 2019, we expanded our focus on partnerships to demonstrate  how our mission aligns and supports other non-profit organizations in our community. Meaningful partnerships with more than two dozen local organizations blossomed in the past year, strengthening the community as a whole. Most prominently, our Wellness Through the Arts classes are a growing opportunity to bring the healing powers of theatre to organizations like StarAbility Foundation, David Lawrence Center, and Collier County Public Schools.

SETTING THE PACE
The pace and growth experienced in 2019 shows no signs of slowing as we embark on our 67th season in the Fall of 2020. The gratitude due to every individual, family, and organization we have impacted this past year is heartfelt and genuine. We will continue to practice this gratitude through further service to our community in 2020 and beyond!

•  701 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
• Phone: (239) 263-7990