When November Volunteer of the Month, Pamela Austin, moved to Naples from Massachusetts in 2017, she wasn’t sure what to expect. “I was looking for a change of location and a whole new adventure – the chance to turn a fresh page. I split from my husband, picked up golf, and moved to Florida.” While strolling along Fifth Avenue, Pamela stumbled across The Naples Players’ (TNP) historic 5th Ave S venue. “I walked in and asked if it was a professional house and was informed that it was a community theater that anyone can get involved with. I couldn’t believe it, because community theaters just don’t look as beautiful as this one is.”

Despite being new to Naples, FL, Pamela is not new to the stage. After beginning her performance journey in high school, she went on to study theatre in college and at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City. “After studying, I worked professionally in summer stock theatre and eventually moved out to Los Angeles. There I did commercials, film, and TV before coming back to the East Coast to get married. After marrying my husband, I had to push performing to the side. Eventually, I pushed him to the side and got into theatre again.”

For Pamela, moving to Florida following her divorce was all about rediscovering her passions. After being cast in her first production, Always a Bridesmaid in 2019, she was able to reconnect with a part of herself she felt was missing for so long. “When I found TNP, I knew I had made the right move. Theatre was something I had put on the back burner for so many years – I was really excited to get back to it. And a little nervous. I remember wondering if I could still remember lines anymore,” says Pamela, “I always knew I’d get back into theatre somewhere down the line. Theatre is what I do. It’s where I belong. I missed it a lot when I wasn’t doing it. I’m so much happier now that I’m back and involved.”

Being around theatre and people with similar interests has been one of Pamela’s favorite parts about volunteering at TNP. As a result, she started looking for additional opportunities to get involved outside of acting,  “I started working in the front of house because they need volunteers. I picked up bartending and it’s been enjoyable. The people who work here make it fun, and it’s great getting to hang out with everyone. Being a bartender is my way of staying involved and supporting the theater, even if I don’t have the spotlight on me.”

Since volunteering at TNP, Pamela says that, “this is unlike any other community theatre I’ve ever joined.” Not only has Pamela found her community in a new location, she’s discovered a love for volunteering. “Volunteering here is a huge service to the community. TNP is a great theater that strives for good quality, not just on stage, but behind the scenes in every department as well. It’s what makes this community stand out. Everyone is involved, and treated like they are, no matter where they volunteer.”

“My love for theatre keeps me coming back to TNP. I’m proud to be a part of this organization and such a quality group of people. To have so many talented people in one spot is amazing.”

Starting anew can be scary, but sometimes you end up with more than you began with. Thank you for all of your talent and time, Pamela! If you see Pamela behind the bar, be sure to congratulate her!

We love to get 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!