AUSTIN GARDNER

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Shortly after he says that line, he transforms into the hunchback and right away you’re immediately drawn to that theme. What does make a human being? What are some of the things that make a good human being? Love, reaching out to others, respect, promoting well-being, reducing harm; these are all things we look at and say ‘that makes an exemplary human.’ But, beauty is not just skin deep. In many ways, we tend to judge and observe people’s physical characteristics rather than looking at their heart. Despite your physical circumstances, despite your situational circumstances, you can always be a good person. It doesn’t cost you anything to be a good person. The plot promotes that and exalts that principle throughout the entire show. I think the audience is going to very much benefit from the lessons to be learned in the show.”

Working with our industry professionals has been one of Austin’s favorite parts of the process so far. “One of the cast members has already predicted that I’m going to end up staying in this area because of how wonder- ful the theater is. It’s a pretty tempting offer. My experience has been overwhelmingly positive so far. Dawn and Charlie are both excellent professionals pushing me to do my best in the character (Claude Frollo) and explore new angles that I’ve never explored before, especially with how vastly different I am in person from Frollo. I’ve always appreciated directors that don’t just let you phone it in and really want you to think about your intentions and your motivations and the things that drive the character forward. It expands the creative process and makes it so much more fun. I’ve really appreciated their attention to detail.”

Even just three weeks into the rehearsal process, Austin considers this opportunity “life-changing” and this show to be a “must-see.”

“This show and TNP have really reinforced my love for theater and made me realize and understand that this is something I want to do for the rest of my life. I love having the opportunity to not just perform but do it well, and create something that I can be proud of. Theatre has served me so greatly in the past and has made me a better person, and I think here (at TNP) it will continue to do so.”

INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?

With so many options to get involved, why wait? Contact Director of Volunteer Advancement, Pamela Larkin Caruso today to tell us about yourself and we’ll find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you!

PAMELA LARKIN CARUSO

plarkincaruso@naplesplayers.org or (239) 434- 7340, ext. 104

“You’re not going to regret seeing The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I’ve invited all of my friends and family to take the two-and-a-halfhour drive to come see it, and I don’t do that with every show. This show is different and it’s definitely one of the most powerful and impactful shows I’ve been in in a long time. Come, enjoy, and ultimately be impressed because we’ve got something really special here. You’ll be glad you did.”

A warm welcome to Austin, and congratulations on your first production at TNP! 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 at 239-434-7340, ext. 104 to find out what other opportunities there are backstage and front of house!

The Naples Players (TNP) builds community through exceptional access to the power of theatre. Voted “Best Live Theatre” for 19 consecutive years, TNP is the best community theatre of its kind for musicals, dramas, children’s productions, educational programs, and more. Learn more on our website: naplesplayers.org.