SEWN TOGETHER By Lauren Speirs
Reuniting for the costume design of Boeing Boeing, two volunteers reflect on their shared experiences through the years with TNP. In 2008, Mary’s daughter was in A Christmas Carol with The Naples Players. “I wasn’t going to drive back and forth from The Estates every night so I said - ‘put me to work!’ I volunteered and then eventually became a staff member. For three years, I was the Shop Supervisor before I moved to DC because of my kids and grandchildren. This was the hardest place we’ve ever moved from!” Since moving, Mary has costumed two performances at the Little Theatre of Alexandria. “It’s so nice to be back (at The Naples Players) for Boeing Boeing. This is such a special place to be.”
girls were very involved. I would do costumes for their shows. My youngest, Brigid, was involved with TNP and was nurtured, really disciplined in a good way, and really encouraged. Brigid is still involved in theatre and still on stage.” Jack was the first male to volunteer in the costume shop. Mary jokes, “We were a bit skeptical at first!” When asked how many shows they’ve worked on together they laughed.
“We worked six years together. Not including KidzAct performances, that’s nine productions a year...a total of 54 productions!”
Jack Cole had recently retired when he moved to Naples nine years ago. “We moved in June and by mid-August my wife was tired of me being at home!” he jokes. “She said - ‘Look at the theater, you could probably help them with costumes.’ I did costumes for my sons’ plays in schools and always did their Halloween costumes.” Jack laughs as he recounts, “Our neighbor down the street used to say - ‘I hate you because you’ve got the best costumes on the block!’”
Reflecting on the camaraderie they experienced during some of their more challenging productions, Mary says, “the team was incredible during My Fair Lady and The Music Man. We stayed late and came in early. My Fair Lady was particularly intense but very rewarding.” Jack added that, “one actress who played Mrs. Higgins said ‘you made me feel beautiful!’”
As far as experience goes, Mary says, “I’ve been sewing since I was a kid and always loved theater. I have a degree in Theater Arts and my
“My Fair Lady was my favorite,” Mary says. “There was so much collaboration with the volunteers. They were so ready to step up to the
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TNP BACKSTAGE
BOEING BOEING
