Three local leaders who have provided outstanding contributions during the COVID-19 crisis will be honored with the first-ever Ovation Awards presented by The Naples Players on Nov. 19. The “Culture In Bloom” event hosted at the Naples Botanical Garden is part of The Naples Players’ continued efforts to unite and showcase arts and culture organizations in Collier County.

Ovation Award honorees include Harriet Heithaus, an arts reporter for the Naples Daily News. Ms. Heithaus was chosen as an honoree for her leadership and continued commitment to ensuring that the local arts and arts organizations are represented in the community; even during these times when many of them remain restricted by safety regulations.

Phil McCabe, CEO and general manager of The Inn on 5th is being recognized for his continued partnership and efforts to keep the arts alive in downtown Naples. Mr. McCabe’s longstanding commitment to the downtown area harkens all the way back to when The Sugden Community theater was built and he generously donated the right-of-way property for the use of the theater. Currently, Mr. McCabe is also providing his property off of 5th Avenue South to host a season-long drive-in movie series.

Finally, local businessman and president of Lake Michigan Credit Union’s West Florida Region, Tom Ray, was selected for his contribution as a continued sponsor of The Naples Players throughout the pandemic. Mr. Ray also served many years as TNP board chairman and helped guide the theater successfully through significant growth.

The evening event begins at 5 p.m. and features a key-note speech by Larry Wilker – the former president of the Kennedy Center for the Arts; former consultant to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando; a Tony Award-winning, Emmy-winning producer and entertainment executive; and a Naples resident.

Guests and honorees will also enjoy a private experience viewing the Botanical Garden’s current art installation “Steve Tobin: Nature Underground,” while some of TNP’s renowned artists perform special presentations throughout the garden. A socially distanced reception in the event tent plaza will follow.

“Culture in Bloom” is one of The Naples Players many programs that have taken the place of their traditional season; this year focusing on cultural partnerships and outdoor activities instead of traditional theater.

“We need the community more than ever” said Executive Artistic Director Bryce Alexander, “and these three individuals are a perfect example of the resilient and devoted nature of our community.”