Growing up in Connecticut, Jake took a fond interest in art from a young age. “I’ve spent my entire life drawing and documenting nature through art – studying the way things move, patterns in nature, and how to creative shading that’s accurate to real life. It’s very zen for me.”

Following studying art and environmental sciences in college, Jake moved to Florida. His move was closely followed by the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Ian. “I didn’t know what to do with myself, so I decided to take up volunteering at The Naples Players. I thought my art experience would help with the scenic element. Surprisingly enough, I’ve ended up finding my footing in the stage management and backstage arenas.” Since first volunteering backstage for The Sound of Music, Jake has worked on Sylvia, The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon, Godspell, Trees & Teas Festival, Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, The Marvelous Wonderettes, It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play, Harvey, The Fanasticks, Front & Center Gala, Laugh, Cry, Pee, Repeat, Clue: On Stage, and 42nd Street, accumulating over 700 volunteer hours in a year and a half.

“Theater is art, and volunteering at The Naples Players has allowed me to explore this fun and new art medium. Volunteering at TNP allows me to learn new things daily – even though I’ve been an artist my whole life, I’m still learning and that’s exciting. The staff have been accommodating and professional. I was one of the first volunteers for the Props Department, and it was a lot of fun creating the props seen on stage and learning about the additional obstacles that come with creating practical art on stage. When I took the Stage Management course, I didn’t know anything and now I can track parts, make shift sheets, tape a set, and so much more – it’s neat watching yourself and your knowledge grow.”

“I love being backstage and meeting all of the actors and making new friends – overall it has been a really good experience, and one that I never would’ve guessed would fulfill me like it has. I’m a bit of a wallflower, but TNP has comfortable pushed me out of my comfort zone with cool people who I trust. It keeps me busy, active, and out of the house. I often find that when I’m not here, I want to be here!”

Currently, Jake is volunteering as the Production Assistant for 42nd Street, on stage in the brand new Kizzie Theater from June 26 – July 21, 2024. “I love working on 42nd Street. The show is a wonderful representation of the Broadway dream. If you like romance, you’ll love it. If you like dancing, you’ll love it. If you like costumes, lights, sound, vocals, an orchestra – really anything – you’ll love it. It perfectly encompasses Broadway.”

42nd Street will be on stage June 26 – July 21, 2024 in TNP’s newly renovated Kizzie Theater on 5th Avenue South. Season tickets for TNP’s 71st Season in historic downtown Naples are on sale now. Performances of 42nd Street are Wednesdays & Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. General tickets are $50 – $55, and season ticket holders are offered a price of $41 – $45. Those interested can visit NaplesPlayers.org anytime or call the TNP Box Office at (239) 263-7990.

We love getting 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 today at 239-434-7340 ext. 104 to find out what other opportunities there are backstage and front of house.