For Ladd Boris, playing Sancho Panza in Man of La Mancha is more than just another role—it’s a calling. As he steps onto the stage at The Naples Players for the first time, he brings with him a wealth of experience, personal connection, and an unwavering passion for the role that has shaped his journey in the theater.

This marks the seventh time Boris has played Sancho, a role that has drawn him back to the stage after a decade-long hiatus.

“I am having the time of my life,” he says. “I am working with an incredible bunch of people filled with love for what they do. There’s a unique joy in performing in a community-driven theater, where the focus is on the love of the craft and collaboration.”

His journey to Naples seems almost fated. Living in New Jersey with his husband, Boris hadn’t planned on returning to the theater until a serendipitous social media connection led to an audition with TNP. The universe continued to guide him forward—he secured housing for his three-month stay; his employer, Allstate Insurance, allowed him to work remotely; and, in a poignant twist of fate, his mother passed away just two weeks before his audition. “The first time I played Sancho, my father passed away two weeks before I began rehearsals,” Boris reflects. Despite his personal loss, he remained committed to his passion and moved forward with his audition at TNP.

Boris’ love for the arts began early. Born in New York City and raised in New Jersey, he took a bus alone at 14 to see a performance at the Metropolitan Opera. At 15, he made his professional debut in the iconic film FAME while attending the prestigious LaGuardia High School of Music and Performing Arts. His career took off from there, leading him to perform at the Metropolitan Opera, on Broadway, and in theaters across the country for over 30 years. Locally, he has graced the stage at TheatreZone, even previously playing Sancho.

For Boris, Sancho is more than just a comedic sidekick—he’s a character filled with devotion and purpose. “Sancho has a strong love for Don Quixote—his existence and his joy are a result of being with him,” Boris explains. “He was granted permission to disappear from a life he didn’t care for. He would go to the ends of the earth for Don Quixote.” The role resonates deeply with him, particularly in a powerful moment when Don Quixote dies in Sancho’s arms—a scene that mirrors Boris’ own life, having held his father as he passed.

Returning to the stage with The Naples Players has been a transformative experience for Boris. He praises Bryce Alexander, the theater’s CEO & Executive Artistic Director, for his vision and leadership. “Bryce is a brilliant man. You can tell he loves the piece. He knows how to work with people to get the best out of each performer,” he says.

Beyond the production, Boris has been deeply moved by Naples’ vibrant cultural scene and The Naples Players’ commitment to youth outreach.

“Nothing is more important than opening doors for our youth to appreciate and engage in the arts,” he says. “We must nurture our youth and give them permission to dream.”

As the curtain rises on Man of La Mancha, Boris stands on stage, fully immersed in the role he loves most.

“Being back on stage is like putting on a pair of your favorite jeans,” he smiles. “They just feel great.” And for Boris, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.