Our History The Naples Players was founded on January 19, 1953, an idea which originated a year earlier at the home of Henry and Mary Watkins. Its first production, I Remember Mama, was staged in what is now Gulfview Middle School on March 20, 1953. The Miami Herald wrote, “Another cultural step in the progress of this city was taken when the newly organized Naples Players gave their first peormance… wohy of accomplished professionals.” Over the next few years the members concerned themselves with the running of a theatre. One issue continued to persist – the desire for a venue. In 1956, the organization incorporated and the search for a home venue began. TNP’s first musical, H.M.S. Pinafore, was staged in 1958. The group performed where it could, from local schools and storefronts to homes. The 1970’s were a busy time with shows, classes, workshops, and seminars. In 1975, TNP established a home base for the next decade when a 40-seat playhouse was opened at 2363 Davis Boulevard. As the years passed, both the membership and audience for the company grew. A movie house (the Kon-Tiki Theatre) became available for rent at the corner of US 41 and Goodlette-Frank Road, in 1984. The Players lept at the opportunity and signed a lease. The building was renovated, and TNP opened Guys and Dolls in March 1985. HUMBLE BEGINNINGS. The cast on the opening night of The Naples Players first production, I Remember Mama, on March 20, 1953. 14 Our History
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