August Volunteers of Month:  Gwen & Emily Bettini

At The Naples Players, our mission is simple but profound: to build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre. And few stories reflect that spirit more beautifully than the journey of our August Volunteers of the Month, Gwen and Emily Bettini—a mother-daughter duo who found purpose, creativity, and connection within our walls.

A Creative Legacy Begins in the Costume Shop

Gwen works on costumes for Hallelujah Girls in the TNP Costume Shop

Gwen Bettini began volunteering in July 2022, bringing with her over a decade of experience in costume creation from her children’s school productions. Since then, she has contributed to over 25 productions as a dedicated sewer in the Costume Shop and has also served as costume designer for Almost, Maine and The Hallelujah Girls.

“Working on a costume and finally seeing it on stage is a thrill!” Gwen shared. “TNP has allowed me to design entire productions, and going through the whole process, start to finish, has been a joy”

But beyond the fabric and fittings, Gwen found something deeper: community.

“I’ve learned so much and met amazing people here. I’m proud to be part of TNP,” she said.

“It’s a fun, creative challenge—and now, it’s something I get to share with my daughter.”

Different Departments. Shared Purpose

Emily Bettini joined the TNP family in March 2025 as Front of House Manager, inspired by the joy she saw theatre bring to her mom. “She introduced me to such lovely people and shared all the wonderful things they do,” Emily said.

Emily Bettini

Gwen Bettini

“I wanted to be part of such an inviting and impactful community.”

As a recent transplant to Florida, Emily was searching for connection. What she found at The Naples Players was a vibrant artistic community and, in her words, “friends and a support system I couldn’t be more grateful for.”

While Gwen sews with practiced hands backstage, Emily welcomes guests with a smile at the front of house—together embodying the spirit of volunteerism and family that makes TNP special.

Emily, an artist herself, loves everything quirky and offbeat—especially Sweeney Todd. “I absolutely love shows that are campy, spooky, or weird,” she said. “It was so exciting that Sweeney Todd was the first summer show I got to experience here!” The production launched Season 72 as the summer musical season opener, setting a thrilling tone for the year ahead.

Beyond the Stage, It’s About Belonging

Gwen and Emily may serve in different roles, but they are both united by the belief that theatre is about more than performance—it’s about people. Gwen

Emily and Gwen Bettini

recalls seeing 42nd Street on Broadway years ago and being stunned that its TNP production held the same magic: “The talent here is amazing. I’m constantly impressed by the quality.”

Together, they exemplify how theatre at TNP is a place where generations connect, talents are nurtured, and stories—both onstage and off—come to life.

A Warm Welcome, A Lasting Impact

Whether stitching a costume or greeting a patron, Gwen and Emily are both proof that community is the true center of every production. And as our Volunteers of the Month, they remind us that building something meaningful—whether it’s a gown, a memory, or a relationship—takes time, care, and creativity.

To Gwen and Emily: thank you for reminding us that theatre is a family affair. And that at The Naples Players, there’s always room for one more at the table—or behind the scenes.