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WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPEIMPACT REPORT2023–2024 SEASONRuby, 2024. Photo by Sorcha Augustine Message

WBTT BOARD OF TRUSTEES, 2023–2024Doris Johnson, Chair Lee Rainer, Vice Chair Cheryl Anderson, Treasurer Marian Moss, SecretaryHonorable Dennis W. Archer Shelia AtkinsLynne Bernfield Dr. Francine Brown Frank Brunckhorst Michael Bush Judy Cuppy Kim Davis Donna Dooley Robert Gaglio Richard Gerrity David Goldman, Esq. Dr. Laverne Green Howard Harris Charlie Huisking AMBASSADORS CIRCLE CO-CHAIRSChristine JenningsSteven KrauseJackie WoodsAli BahajCharles W. BrownChris Caswell, JDKitty CranorNancy FlanaganMichael GardinerSy GoldblattAsa Harris Michele HooperPenelope KingmanHoward MillmanDr. Randall MorganKimberly ParrisR. Dean PiccirilloMona RankinDr. Donald ReavesDona ScottHONORARY TRUSTEES Andrew EconomosJune GordonMargie Nellum LeeMary Ann RobinsonLois WatsonTomeika Hunter-Koski Amb. Jeanette Hyde Lynne Koy Joyce Locklear Gregory Matthews Kaveecia Moore Hector Muniz Andi Munzer Vickie Oldham Debbie Partridge William Partridge, Esq. Richard Perlman Ann Hobson Pilot Prentice Pilot Dr. Jacqueline Ray David Shapiro, Esq. Jeremy Shelby Edna Sherrell Teresa Simmons Joann SurrencyMarty Tael Melanie ThomasSheila Weiss David Wilkins Lois Wilkins Hon. Charles E. Williams Charles & Susan WilsonVictor Young Barbara A. Zdravecky

As I look back on our 2023-2024 “Simply The Best” season, I smile and think of just how much we have accomplished at the cusp of 25 years. As Founder and Artistic Director, I have the privilege of writing and producing my own creations at my own theatre. To bring back iconic shows such as Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul starring the undeniably talented Sheldon Rhoden, and for our audiences to still rave about a show that I wrote over 10 years ago amazes me. That speaks to the incredible power of Black art and the impact that our stories have in our community. I don’t take this reality lightly. It tells me, as WBTT’s Founder, that the vision, purpose and impact of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is bigger than Nate Jacobs. This brings so much joy and appreciation to my heart.None of this could be done without the incredible sta of WBTT: the wonderful Julie Leach as our Executive Director and our artistic associates, Chuck Smith who directed A Soldier’s Play, and our Director of Education Jim Weaver who directed our season opener Once on This Island. I am thankful for our Board, led by Doris Johnson, who are so passionate about WBTT’s future and existence, and for Debra Flynt-Garrett who nurtures our donors, who are immensely supportive. All of the sta at WBTT work together to bring our community the best-loved theatre on Florida’s west coast and I couldn’t be more grateful to them for embracing my vision and working with me to achieve our mission.Our “Simply The Best” season featured many productions that WBTT had not produced in a while, but that were so important to the fabric of our being and our success. Our season opener, Once on This Island, our holiday show Joyful! Joyful!, A Soldier’s Play, the world-premiere of Ruby, and the beloved Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul. I was so happy to finally present the musical Ruby, which tells the true story of Ruby McCollum, an African American woman who shot a prominent white doctor in the south in the 1950s. My brother Michael and I put our blood, sweat, and tears into that production, which had been delayed two times due to COVID. The incredible cast, which included newcomer Catara Brae as Ruby, exceeded my expectations and the response that we have received all over the country is humbling. Sheldon Rhoden led our season closer, Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul which was extended a full week! Tony and Grammy Award-winning icon Jennifer Holiday—a longtime supporter and friend of WBTT—performed for a one-night-only concert and stayed for a conversation with me to discuss her career and give advice to our young artists. Her long-time support of this company is one that has lifted WBTT to new heights and I am forever grateful to her for unwavering support.As we enter our 25th season, I look to our past as a reminder of how far we have come, the present as a reminder of all we have achieved, and to our future and all the possibilities we have yet to unlock. Our community has held us up all these years and embraces us as part of Sarasota’s rich cultural landscape. I look forward to all there is to come in our 25th season, as we celebrate “Black Heritage!”—NATE JACOBS Founder, Artistic DirectorA YEAR TO BE PROUD OF

We’ve been thinking ahead to the upcoming 25th Anniversary season here at WBTT, but it’s good to take a few moments to celebrate what a wonderful year we had in season 2023–24! I loved our season, beginning with the beautiful Once on This Island, the mesmerizing A Soldier’s Play, our incredible world premiere Ruby and the wonderful return of Joyful! Joyful! and Marvin Gaye Prince of Soul.It is a great joy for me to work with our dedicated troupe members, and so fun to travel with Nate and the Soul Crooners to North Carolina again for the International Black Theatre Festival. We met up there with the amazing Tarra Connor Jones and Darius Autry to produce two one-person, one-act plays in addition to Soul Crooners—Solid Gold Edition. Stage of Discovery is always an annual highlight for me, too, and I have known many of our Stage of Discovery students now for over 9 years—it is so exciting to see them grow and find their interests and places in the world. My work at WBTT is deeply rewarding and I so appreciate our generous Sarasota community that makes it all possible from the patrons to our wonderful Board members, sponsors and grantors—you are the reason we are successful! I thank you for your continued belief in the value and relevance of this unique theatre company! See you in the theatre soon!WBTT….Nothing Else Like it! —JULIE LEACH Executive DirectorPROUD OF ALL OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

THE WBTT BOARD IS SECOND TO NONE!When reflecting on the 2024 year for our amazing WBTT Board of Trustees, three themes stand out for us—Raising the Bar, Consistency, and Resiliency. Related to Raising the Bar, the the board participated in a retreat focused on evaluating our board processes and increasing our eectiveness. Results of that session included development of committee charters and work schedules for our standing committees, as well as benchmarks for future work. The Governance Committee led the way in making sure these upgrades happened. The second half of that retreat focused on updating our 3–5 year Strategic Plan and the Strategic Planning Committee has taken that work and refined our mission statement and expanded our plan through 2027. Thanks to the Scholarship Committee, we elevated our Scholarship Program to include 8 students including one post-graduate student, and an increase in the monies awarded to these deserving students. A third accomplishment was the opening of the Howard Millman Black Box Theatre outfitted with professional lighting, sound and flexible seating. The Education and Outreach Committee was instrumental in getting this done.In terms of Consistency, we had 100% board participation in the Giving Challenge in April and a very financially successful April Fool’s Fěte, also in April. We were fortunate to find two new board members with specific skill sets that include finance and human resources. They have brought additional energy and new ideas to our board committees as well. And of course, there was amazing support for our Stage of Discovery program and our Young Artist Showcases, which all sold out.Finally, with respect to Resiliency, we had many challenges in the second half of the year. The impact of Hurricane Milton forced the postponement of our Opening of Soul Crooners, Solid Gold Edition in October and caused damages to our theatre building awning. But we were able to pivot on a dime in November due to the closure of the Van Wezel and reschedule our 25th Anniversary Celebration at The Ora. This event was a huge success and a wonderful kick-o to our Development Committee’s roll out of “Solid Gold—Powering the Dream for the Future Generation”.Whew! These are just some of the highlights of 2024. It was quite a year of accomplishments and memories—from the world premiere of Ruby to celebrating our 25th Anniversary with the bonus of helping our Founder and Artistic Director, Nate Jacobs, celebrate turning 65! We can’t wait to see what positive experiences 2025 brings!With Gratitude,—DORIS JOHNSON Board Chair

OCTOBER 11–NOVEMBER 19, 2023WBTT opened the 2023–2024 “Simply The Best” season with Once on This Island, directed by WBTT Education Director and Artistic Associate Jim Weaver. Once on This Island tells the story of a poor orphan girl named Ti Moune who falls in love with a wealthy boy from the other side of the island and is sent on a journey by the Gods to prove if love can conquer death. Broadway World said, “Ti Moune, played stunningly by Ilexis Holmes, comes to life in full. From the first note that she sings in “Waiting for Life”, it is obvious that we are in for a treat to watch her rule the stage. Holmes is in almost every single scene after this, until the end of the play, and she is a true delight to watch.”

OCTOBER 29— 30, 2023 As part of our Independent Artist series, longtime troupe member Michael Mendez, presented Harry Belafonte: King of Calypso in two sold out shows. Directed by Nate Jacobs, the show was a tribute to the late Belafonte and featured all his most popular hits including “Jump In the Line (Shake Senora)”, “Coconut Woman”, and “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)”.Harry BelafonteKING OF CALYPSOSTARRING MICHAEL MENDEZOCTOBER 14—15, 2023 Actress, singer, dancer, and playwright Cherise Kimoy James brought her two-women play Motherless to WBTT’s Howard J. Millman Theatre. The play starred Ariel Blue and Alicia Thomas who each play two characters; each character is a woman surviving after her mothers passing, taking a step into vulnerability and arriving at an honest moment in their lives that forces them to not only see their truth, but to speak it. The show was directed by Erica Sutherlin. After receiving generous donations to build out the Howard J. Millman Theatre as a functioning Blackbox performance space, we celebrated its opening with this production. Motherless

NOVEMBER 11, 2023On November 11, 2023, WBTT hosted the 24th anniversary fall gala celebrating the music, style, and dance of the legendary TV show Soul Train. Held at the Circus Arts Conservatory’s Sailor Circus Arena and featuring WBTT artists Brian Boyd as Don Cornelius, Ariel Blue, Jazzmin Carson, Tarra Connor Jones, Delores McKenzie, Michael Mendez, Raleigh Mosely II, Leon Pitts II, Maicy Powell, Sheldon Rhoden and Stephanie Zandra, the themed event raised over $466,500. Our Heart and Soul Philanthropy Award was presented to Cheryl Anderson for her support of WBTT’s mission, serving as WBTT Board Treasurer for over 14 years.

NOVEMBER 29–DECEMBER 30, 2023In December, we revived the holiday show Joyful! Joyful! Created by Founder/Artistic Director Nate Jacobs during the Covid pandemic, this show celebrates the joy of recovery from it. Directed by Nate Jacobs, the show featured Stage of Discovery students and our professional performers who sang spirituals, R&B, and traditional Christmas songs. Shanti Kennedy of Broadway World said, “This show highlighted astonishing harmonies as well as solos. Maicy Powell’s rendition of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” was overwhelmingly beautiful, angelic, and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house! “Joy (Unspeakable)”, brought forth the astounding acting and voice of Stephanie Zandra.”

JANUARY 18–FEBRUARY 18, 2024In January 2023 the troupe presented A Soldier’s Play directed by Chuck Smith, and featuring a stellar cast which starred Darius Autry, Peterly Jean Baptiste, Brian L. Boyd, Ben Brandt, Michael Mejia-Mendez, Casey Murphy, Leon Pitts II, Patric Robinson, Terry Spann, Eric van Baars, Jerald Wheat, Donovan Whitney, and Jacob Smith. A powerful drama written by the late Charles Fuller, the story is set on a US Army Base and follows the murder of an African American Sergeant in an all-black unit during the segregation era.

JANUARY 14, 2024WBTT held its annual MLK Celebration, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebrating His Legacy in Spoken Word and Song, at the historical Sarasota Opera House with a soul-stirring show that honored the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Reverend Charles McKenzie delivered speeches by King and the show featured music by artists such as Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and many Negro spirituals and uplifting soul and gospel songs.

FEBRUARY–MARCH 2024Jazzlinks, the in-school touring and community outreach program, is a collaboration between WBTT and The Jazz Club of Sarasota, and is designed to educate high school and middle school students about the role of African Americans in U.S. history. This season’s program titled Civil Rights: Bridging The Movement, brought focus to the many contributions of African Americans in the military and at home during WWII, the Korean, and the Vietnam Wars—from the 1930s to the 1960s. Performances were held at the Institute of Black Life Conference, The SCAEP Committee Meeting, and Sarasota Bay Park as well as high schools in Sarasota and Manatee counties. This year’s program reached over 700 students, 1,000 community members and held over 34 performances.

FEBRUARY 28–APRIL 7, 2024After several COVID delays, WBTT finally presented Ruby on our mainstage. Starring newcomer Catara Brae as Ruby, Sam Alpharicio as Sam McCollum, and Larry Alexander as Doctor Leroy Adams, the story is a musical retelling about the shocking killing of a white doctor in Live Oak, Florida, and the Black woman—Ruby McCollum—who was tried in the case and eventually committed to a Florida State Mental Hospital. The show was written and conceived by Founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs and his brother Michael Jacobs and has received national attention. LIVE OAK, FLORIDA, 1952. THE STORY BEHIND THE SCANDAL.BLACK

LIVE OAK, FLORIDA, 1952. THE STORY BEHIND THE SCANDAL.CELEBRATINGBLACKHERITAGEFEBRUARY 12, 2024The annual Hush Hush Party unveiled our 25th anniversary season lineup titled “Celebrating Black Heritage.” The evening began with the unveiling of our first show, the ever popular Nate Jacobs original Soul Crooners: Solid Gold Edition with a special performance by our Crooners, Christopher Eisenberg, Michael Mejia-Mendez, Raleigh Mosely II, and Leon Pitts II. It was followed with a performance by some WBTT favorites including Ariel Blue and Maicy Powell presenting the holiday show A Motown Christmas, a special scene from the show Fences performed by Sieglinda Fox, Patric Robinson, and Donovan Whitney, and a rousing number from Five Guys Named Moe by Brian L. Boyd, Donald Frison, Michael Mendez, Raleigh Mosely II, and Leon Pitts II. Broadway star Lamont Brown joined us to help announce an original production called Syncopated Avenue, a new tap-dance revue written by Nate and Michael Jacobs.

An Evening with JENNIFER HOLLIDAYMARCH 20, 2024Longtime supporter of WBTT, Broadway star and original Dreamgirl Jennifer Holliday performed for “one night only” on our mainstage, singing songs that reflected the nature of her illustrious career so far. She also shared stories in a cabaret style performance that concluded with a talkback moderated by Founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs.

MARCH, APRIL, MAY 2024As part of our Young Artist Program, three WBTT artists conceived their own showcases performed on the mainstage. Delores McKenzie’s Belles of Broadway was held in March, and honored iconic Broadway actresses who made their mark on stage. This one-woman show featured songs from Wicked, Evita, and Beauty and the Beast. Ariel Blue presented On Love’s Boulevard in April, inspired by beloved sitcoms and TV shows like Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, Cheers, and the Golden Girls. Ariel was supported by the Bluelight Band (music directed by EJ Porter) and her background singers Tianna Harris, Amber Myers, and Maicy Powell as well as special guests Jasmine Lawrence, Hadara Porter, and Henry Porter. Rounding out the season, CJ Melton starred in I Sing Because I’m Happy…I Sing Because I’m Free with special guests Jordan Bolds, Jazzmin Carson, Raleigh Mosely II, Maicy Powell, and Sheldon Rhoden. Melton sang gospel & R&B songs that have inspired him and his development as an artist.YOUNG ARTISTPROGRAM

APRIL 1, 2024The April Fool’s Fěte was held in the ballroom of Michael’s On East. The main show featured Michael Mendez as Harry Belafonte and featured Ariel Blue, Maicy Powell, and our Stage of Discovery students. This annual fundraiser is held to raise money for our education programs such as Stage of Discovery and Jazzlinks and the calypso themed event raised over $201,896.

APRIL 9–10, NOON–NOON, 2024 The 2024 Giving Challenge was incredibly successful for WBTT—we raised over $115,500! Donations help us produce exceptional theatre that honors African American history, culture, and experiences, fosters the growth of a vibrant group of aspiring artists, and helps young people of color develop their sense of self. The community’s commitment to our cause is crucial to our success! By joining this event hosted by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and strengthened by The Patterson Foundation’s matching grants, our patrons were able to multiply their impact on our mission.

APRIL 17–June 2, 2024For the fourth time since 2011, Sheldon Rhoden starred as Marvin Gaye in Marvin Gaye: Prince of Soul. Backed by an all star cast including Ariel Blue, Brian L. Boyd, Jazzmin Carson, Michael Kinsey, Michael Mendez, Raleigh Mosely II, Amber Myers, Jai Shanae, and Emerald Rose Sullivan, the revue chronicles Gaye’s life from living under the strict rule of his father, to becoming a musical icon who forged his own path despite struggles and losses. Audiences sang along to “Heard it Through The Grapevine,” “Stubborn Kind of Fellow”, and “Sexual Healing,” and The Observer review said that “Midnight Lover” “ . . . sends WBTT audiences into a swoon . . .”

JUNE 12–23, 2024In June, WBTT presented a short-run of Melda Beaty’s Coconut Cake in conjunction with four other theatre companies as part of the show’s rolling world premiere. This play was the winner of the Sylvia Sprinkle-Hamlin Rolling World Premiere Award at the 2022 National Black Theatre Festival. The comedy tells the story of four retirees who debate the mysteries of life over coee and games of chess at a local McDonald’s. But when a mysterious woman moves to town, tempting them to indulge in her melt-in-your-mouth coconut cake and medicine cabinet secrets, their lives are changed forever. The show starred K. Sidney Brunson, Lawrence Evans, Lee Palmer, David Sitler, and Jacob Smith. Coconut CakeCoconut Cake

JUNE 16, 2024The second annual WBTT Juneteenth Arts Festival was held on June 16th on WBTT’s campus and saw over 350 people in attendance on a day reserved to celebrate the freedom of African Americans from slavery. Hosted by Ariel Blue, the day included live performances held outside in our parking lot and short films played in our Theatre. The festival ended with an hour-long performance from WBTT performers Ariel Blue, Jazzmin Carson, Delores McKenzie, Michael Mendez, Raleigh Mosely II, Leon Pitts II, and a special guest appearance from Syreeta Banks and our Founder and Artistic Director Nate Jacobs.

JULY 13–14 2024As part of our annual Stage of Discovery, WBTT presented Make Room for Me! under the direction of Education Director/Artistic Associate Jim Weaver. This year we had 26 campers for 5 weeks. The students had three sold out performances. Each year during the camp, students attend intense acting, dance, and music classes to sharpen their skills. This year creative writing and scenic design were added and students played a major role in the creation of the final production. The program is free thanks to the generosity of donors.MAKE ROOMFORME!WBTT’S STAGE OF DISCOVERY 2024STAGE OFDISCOVERY

For the 6th year in a row, we have awarded eight students with WBTT Artist Development Scholarships. Six recipients graduated from our Stage of Discovery program. Astrid McIntyre was awarded the Marian Moss Scholarship and will be completing her studies in Commercial Music at Southeastern University this school year. Miracle Deveaux was awarded the Dr. Robert Mayer and Dr. Jody Beresford Scholarship and is studying music production at the University of North Florida. Amillia Samuels is entering her second year of studies in Contemporary Commercial Music at the University of South Florida and was given the Steve and Shari Ashman Scholarship. Zion Thompson was awarded the Charles and Susan Wilson Scholarship and will complete his studies at State College of Florida STUDENT ARTIST DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIPSthis year in Theatre. Canela Vasquez was awarded the Kitty and John Cranor Scholarship and will complete her studies in Digital Communications/Multi-Media Journalism in the coming year. Anthony Jackson, in his first- year at State College of Florida, was awarded a scholarship in memory of Alan Kurland, Jayde Dauley, our Ringing College of Art and Design intern received a scholarship from the Goldblatt Family Scholarship Fund for her third year studying Film Production and Jamar Camp—one of our frequent WBTT band members who is working towards his doctorate in music education —was awarded a scholarship from our WBTT scholarship Fund.We couldn’t be happier to support these students in all of their scholastic endeavors!Photo by Beth Graves. Board member Marian Moss, Julie Leach, Board Member Dr. Randall Morgan, Students Zion Thompson, Astrid McIntyre, Amilia Samuels, Canela Vasquez, Board Member Dona Scott, Nate Jacobs, Board Chair Doris Johnson

JULY 28–30, 2024The Soul Sensations, founded and led by WBTT Board Member Dr. Randall Morgan, performed Soul Sensations: A Night to Remember, a series of benefit concerts in July 2024. The concert featured vocalists Mark Dortch, Dana Merriweather, Dr. Randall Morgan, Raleigh Mosely II, and Ywada Pitts, performing songs from the golden age of soul and R&B, backed by a sizzling live band led by Music Director/Drummer Etienne “EJ” Porter. Proceeds from the concert went towards supporting WBTT’s mission of promoting and celebrating African American history and experience, engaging a broad base of patrons and audiences, supporting the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and building self-esteem in youth of color.

JULY 29–AUGUST 3, 2024WBTT was invited back to the International (previously National) Black Theatre Festival—this time bringing not one, but three original shows produced first on WBTT’s stage. Written and directed by Tarra Connor Jones, From Birmigham to Broadway is a musical biography about the life of Broadway star Nell Carter (played by Jones). Darius Autry starred in Float Like a Butterfly, written and directed by Nate Jacobs about the life of Muhammad Ali. The Soul Crooners entertained audiences during the week, leading up into the weekend and showcased the newly revised Crooners show Soul Crooners: Solid Gold Edition. Over 2,000 people attended a WBTT production at the festival.

AUGUST–SEPTEMBER 2024WBTT hosts multiple artists every year. In August, Jose Ramirez returned to play an acoustic set and present the US premiere of his new biographical documentary Bad Hombre, a movie about a blues artist from Costa Rica who fought his way onto international blues stages to represent Costa Rica and Latin America. In September, in collaboration with The Links Inc. Bradenton/Sarasota chapter, we held a performance of the Fannie Lou Hamer Story written and performed by Viv Award (Black Tony), multi-award-winning playwright, actress, and vocalist, Mzuri Moyo Aimbaye. The play depicts the Black American struggle for humanity, dignity and freedom for fair representation in the voting process. AUGUST 28, 2024In 2018, Young, Black & Giving Back Institute brought Give 8/28 to life to build a giving day dedicated to grassroots, Black nonprofits. Thanks to 98 donors, we raised $25,160 from 8/26 to 8/31 through the 2024 Give 8/28 campaign. These donations helped support our 25th Anniversary season.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2024On September 16th, in partnership with WEDU/PBS, WBTT screened the Negro Ensemble Company documentary as one of our 2023/2024 Voices Programs. The documentary delves into the rich history and impact of one of the most influential African American theater companies in the United States and features interviews with former members of the NEC, including actors, playwrights, and directors, who reflect on their experiences and the company’s influence on their careers and the broader theater community.The similarities between the founding of the NEC and WBTT were inspiring. The program was concluded with a Talk Back featuring WBTT founding Troupe members Christine Jennings, Howard Millman and Nate Jacobs. Other 2023–2024 Voices programs were held for Ruby where patrons learned about creating and staging a world-premiere show and A Soldier’s Play which featured a discussion regarding how the actors prepared for their performances and their feeling concerning the many issues the play addresses. Both programs featured panels consisting of actors and production team members from their respective plays.WBTTVOICESCOMMUNITY FORUMS

THE FRIENDSHIP TRAINWestcoast Black Theatre Troupe is pleased to recognize our legacy donors as our “Friendship Train.” These donors have indicated in writing that WBTT is included in their estate plans. We are so grateful to them for ensuring that WBTT will touch the lives of young artists, students and patrons long into the future. If you would like to consider jumping on board, contact Debra Flynt-Garrett, Development Director, at 941-404-7755. Bankston Family TrustCarol & Tom BeelerDan DentonNancy & Tom FlanaganMichael & Suzanne GladfelterRonald & Rita GreenbaumLen GumleyMarilyn HarwellPeggy & Hal HaydenBob JohnsonDarlene J. Kalada & Richard N. BryanPenelope KingmanLynne KoyAlan & Abbie KurlandRose Marie ProiettiLaurie RosinEva T. SlaneJerey Smith & Deborah MixMary Lou Webster

FOUNDERS $50,000+Charles & Margery Barancik FoundationBrunckhorst Family*The Community Foundation of Sarasota County*Andrew & Judith Economos* in Honor of Nate JacobsEnthusiastic Friends of WBTT*Sy Goldblatt*Gulf Coast Community Foundation*Penelope Kingman*Brock & Julie Leach*Howard Millman & Carolyn Michel*Dona & Sam Scott*2023–2024 DONORSThank you to our family of generous donors for supporting WBTT during our 2023–2024 fiscal year. The list includes Visionary Circle Donors, Production Sponsors, and Event Sponsors from October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024.*Denotes 5 years or more of continuous support

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS $10,000-$19,999AnonymousCheryl Anderson & Mike Springer*Carol Beeler*Jerry & Helga Bilik*Liza & Carl Caruso*Gene & Linda Crump*Karen DahutRobert E. Dods Family Foundation* in Honor of Mike & Karen GardinerBrian & Caroline EllersonDaniel & Belle FangmeyerLinda Fiorelli*Michael & Karen Gardiner*Gettel Automotive Group*John & Geraldine Gibbs*Anthony & Adela GloverJames Heskett*Roger & Nancy HitchcockDr. Donald & Doris Johnson*Henry KatzARTISTIC DIRECTORS $20,000-$49,999AnonymousAli & Gloria Bahaj*Kitty & John Cranor*The Exchange*Nancy & Tom Flanagan*Dr. Phil & Suzan Gaynes*Kenneth & Sarah Goldblatt*Rob Heeren & Steven Kalt*Michele Hooper & Lemuel Seabrook*Sheila Jellison*Curtis Jordan & Paige Petersen*The Patterson Foundation*Cecil & Shirley Pickett*Lee & Lydia Rainer* The Shubert Foundation*Pat SingletaryRosa L. & Willie Stanfield*Jim & Charlie Ann Syprett*Glenn & Jackie Tilton*Victor Kaufman & Ann Rainey*The Koman Family*Patricia Kordis*Dr. John & Eilene Maupin*Elizabeth MooreDr. Randall & Karen Morgan*Marian Moss*Barbara & Larry Newman* in Memory of Alan E. FeenDavid & Francine Newman*Dorothy O’Brien & Dick Antoine*Neil & Carole Phillips*Patricia Potter*Rose Marie Proietti*Drs. Donald J. Reaves & Deborah Ross ReavesRobert Russell*Richard & Ellen Sandor Family FoundationJack & Priscilla Schlegel*Ken Schneier & Cynthia Craig*Jerey & Barbara Shivers*Dr. Bernard & Lois Watson and The William Penn Foundation*

PLAYWRIGHTS $5,000-$9,999AnonymousDouglas & Carolyn Anderson*Scott B. & Annie P. Appleby Charitable Trust*David & Suzanne ArchHonorable Dennis W. Archer & Honorable Trudy DunCombe Archer*George & Jessica Armstrong and Rosemary & Thyme*Curtis & Kim ArtisSteve & Shari Ashman*Lawrence & Stephanie BaileyWalton & Deborah Beacham*Susan G. BenjaminMichael & Christine BerksonRobert Blattberg & Rebecca DonelsonCarole & Gary Booher*Dr. Jenne K. BritellMichael Weir & Mirian Graddick-WeirSusan & Charles Wilson*William & Elizabeth Johnston*Jorgen & Esther JensenJolan Foundation Corp.*Edward Keon &Pat Kennelly*Virginia Lipton*Tom & Diane Mahan*Masala Giving CircleJoan Mathews*Dr. Martin Max*James & Stephanie McClennenMeg & Jamie McLane*Victor & Mercidees McTeerGeorge & Janet Miles*Bob & Andi Munzer*Gregory & Kimberly ParrisFrank & Jeanette Planes*Irwin & Andra Press*Lynne Ross*Skip & Gail Sack*David & Jole SandblomDr. Bob & Beth Scheible* Charles & Theresa Brown*Bruce & Elaine Burton*Miles & Barbara Capron*Nancy Connelly*Sue Coyne & The Lewis Foundation*Cynthia Davis*James Doyle & Paula MillerDavid & Vivian Dresner in Honor of Nancy & Tom FlanaganDouglas & Willie Eden*FCCI Insurance Group*Cynthia FlowersBernice Giscombe*Susan Gorin*Joe & Leslie GrabowskiRita Greenbaum*HBKS Wealth Advisors & Elite Life ManagementCharlie Husking from the Huisking Family Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County*Brigadier General George E. Irvin, Sr., US Army, Retired & Mrs. Sarah Irvin

Teresa Simmons* in Memory of Bob SimmonsLinda Steinberger*Susan Straus*Skip & Janis SwanCraig & Deborah ThompsonDr. Ray & Fran Taylor*Jim & Susan TraversPatricia Vandenberg* & Steven Alan BrownPaul & Kathie Westpheling*Bob & Angelia Wood*Jackie Woods*DIRECTORS $2,500-$4,999AnonymousPeg Allen & Steve Dixon*Constance Anderson* & Lonnette Gaines*Artefact Design, Inc.*Adele Fleet Bacow & Lawrence Bacow*The Gail Baird FoundationDr. Jody Beresford & Dr. Robert MayerCarolyn Blum*Marty & Barbara Bowling*Murray Bring & Kay Delaney*Jan Cady*Claudia Cardillo*Chris & Patricia Caswell*Nedra ClarkWilliam & Helen CovingtonThomas & Dana Cunningham*Toni-Anne DeNicola-KomanLinda DriggsBarbara V. Gardner & Tom Gardner*Michael & Michael Ann GaliyanoWayne GattinellaBernice Giscombe*Kofi Glover*Larry & Dorothy GreenGulfside BankGail & Bob Hetler*Patricia Hunter-BunyanTed & Jean Ingersoll*Sue Jacobson*Jacqueline Jones*Warren & Thekla Kahn*Alan KestonDonna Koman*Alison & Howard Madsen* C. Malachowski*David & Rebecca MarshMCR HealthMeadows Dental*Dale & Kristin Menard*Gloria Moss*Martha Murphy & Kathy Holmok*Barbara Nalven* Northern Trust*David Oifer & Linda ZarchinJames & Janet Pullen*Mona Rankin*Barbara Raphael*Marta Riordan & James Boyle*Michael Ritter & Nancy WolkJonathan & Barbara RyderGeraldine SandersArthur Siciliano & Barbara Blanchard

Penny Sijatz*Ronald & Suzanne Singleton Jerey Smith & Deborah Mix* in Honor of Nate JacobsJohn Henry StaplesHillary Steele*Elizabeth Sublette*G. Richard & Elizabeth Thompson*Claire van der Ark & Tim MackseyBruce Vanderstowe & Gary DavisPeter & Judi WassermanDr. Richard Wharton & Dr. Lou Bertha McKenzie-Wharton and the Wharton & McKenzie-Wharton Family Foundation*Paul & Andrea WhiteBarbara Whitfield CHOREOGRAPHERS $1,000-$2,499Gary & Barbara AkermanC. Alan Anderson Architect*Donald & Cathy Baillie*Mary Braxton-Joseph*Tony & Irene Britt*Barbara BrizdleSusan & James Buck*Margaret Holt BurchKathleen BurkeAlvinnetta BurksDebra Buttaggi*Jeremy CaplinMartha ChadwickSam & Pam Citron*Warren & Marie ColbertBradley Cooper & Beth LambertJohn “Bill” CoughlinJeanne Cowan & Barnett HassGeorge & Bonnie Cummings*Katharina CurlessCarol CustardDeline Charitable FoundationEsther DomberLeon & Marge Ellin*Barbara Fleischer*Lawrence & Elizabeth Gallick*Ron Gault & Charlayne Hunter-Gault*Richard & Abby Gerrity*Melanie GoddardRochelle GunnerBarbara HankinLorna Hard*Howard Harris*Katie Hayes*Noel & Terry Hefty* in Honor of Howard MillmanMinnie Baylor HenryDr. Kenneth & Mitzie HensonPenny HillPeter HurstMorris Hylton IIIClarance & Maureen JonesDarlene Kalada & Richard Bryan*Tammy KarpEugene & Diane KatzGerald & Mary Kilanoski*Melvin KinardDr. Marsha Kindell-Smith & Dr. Hugh S. SmithMichael & Terri Klauber*Ashley Kozel

Judith KozlowskiLenny & Susan Landau*David & Lucie Lapovsky*Tootie Larios in Honor of Andrew & Judith EconomosHarry LeopoldDave & Ellen LevineGail LevyKate LorenzSusan LugerMaureen Maguire & Doug Kuperman*Tom & Diane Mahan*Frank & Katherine Martucci*John McDermottLoraine McWilliams*Jason & Jennifer MeansJohn & Mary MeyerPeter & Sandra MorrisEric & Judith MowerDr. Howard & Barbara NobleLou & Rosemary OberndorfBill & Debbie Partridge*Ralph & Peggy Passino*Scott & Kim PenningRoxanne PermsleyRick & Sally PiccoloKeith & Felicia PovichWalter & Marilyn ProutyAlan & Sunny Pervil*George & Winnie Quarterman*Martin RappaportDr. Jacqueline Ray*James RayClarence RogersJonathan & Barbara Ryder*Hugo Roth Family Fund in Honor of Sy GoldblattRobert & Hedria Saltzman*Steven & Sally SandblomJose SantanaDonna Santarsiero-MenegazSarasota County Bar Association Diversity and Inclusion Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County*Daisy Saunders*Martha SchantzWes Scheufler & The Scheidel FoundationTobi Schneider & Steve Neumeister*Felice Schulaner & Dennis Rees*Maureen Shea*Cade SibleyLeslie Smith*Stephanie Sonnabend & Gregory CiccoloDawn SpencerRenee & Bill StevensGreg & Bill StikeleatherRuth StonerNoreene StorrieTarget CircleMaria & Levi ThompsonMarilyn Thompson*Ed Town & Steve RubinBeverlyn Truehart*Helen Vetter*Dr. Morris WashingtonRon & Geri Yonover*Janice Zarro*

DESIGNERS $500-$999Eric BairdMyrna BlumeRandall BonoJames & Clemmie CashGail Chase*Todd ChristofaroSteven & Arlene CohenNeal ColtonJane Conner*Jill ConsidineGeorgia CourtKathy DiBiaseAmy & Michael DrakeDaniel DunnShane & Sheila EganLarry & Shain Fishman in Honor of Mike Gardner & Debra Flynt-GarrettNancy GoldGerald Goldberg & Anita SolovLeila & Steven Gompertz DAF in Memory of Michael Gompertz*Marvin & Anne Marie GreeneBeverly HarmsJulie Harris in Honor of Ali and Gloria BahajPeggy & Hal Hayden*Kathleen Hayes*Henry & Katherine Heusner*Charles & Annazette HoustonMichael & Melonie HumphriseDr. C.H. Amar & Mira Inalsingh*Christine Jennings*Karen Koeing*Philip & Nancy Kotler*Gino & Debra LaMarcaBruce LehmanDr. Horace & Lorrie LiangAntonio & Nelida LlovioSandra LongRuth & Andy Maass* in Honor of Michael & Karen Gardiner Jacqueline Massari*Joseph McDonoughJ.C. & Bonnie McIntyreMartha McKlveenMichelle & Michael MorrisMelissa MorsliAllen & Roberta Morton*Gunter & Anita Mrotzek*Diane & Tim MuldoonBarbara O’Neil*Wiley & Fran Osborn*Elaine & Fred PanitzDr. Sarah Pappas*Chuck & Nancy ParrishAnn Hobson Pilot & Prentice Pilot*Marilyn PinskyH. LeBaron PrestonLily Pulitzer, University Town CenterJohn & Jill RaleighLaurie Rosin*Adie RubinLisa Rubinstein*Lawrence SageDouglas J. Smith & Thomas E. ChenaultRobert & Joy StoneMarkus & Ingrid SummersMax & Sue Supica*Ed & Claudia SwanJane Traub*Albert TripodiTsunamiSalten Weingrod Family Fund at the Rhode Island Foundation*Richard Weisbrot & Barbara ShaimanChuck & Sheila Weiss*Carla Young

STAGE HANDS $35-$499AnonymousLois Agronick & John FeaganJane Ahern-DeFillippi & Robert DeFillippiRavi & Virginia AkhouryPamela AkinsDiane AlbrittonVicki AlkirePete & Cindy AllcoxRobert AllenCharlene AltenhainJan AmaraEladio & Judy Amores*Judith AndersonPaul AndisBarbara & Ronald ArchboldAmanda ArnoldCarol ArscottLurline AslanianAlexander AustinJon AyersMargaret BaileyForest BaldersonBruce Ballard MDDonna BardgettRonald BastekHenry & Phyllis Battie*Karen BeardmanBruce & Lisa BecksteinCarole BeebeStephen Bell & Elizabeth ScanioRichard Belle & Marie PogozelskiPat BeloteBarry & Suzy BenjaminDebbie BennerRichard & Patricia Bentley*Emil & Alice Beran*Thomas BercalAlan & Susan BerenkindKenneth & Judith Berger*Richard Berman*Celeste BetjemannAllan & Linda BirdySuzanne BivianoPaul & Marilyn Blankman*Kimberly BleachJosephine BloomElizabeth BloorRotraut Bockstahler*Jim & Linda Bodycomb*Ken BogdanoJenice BolandJanice BoltErnest & Dale BookerSteven BordesVenessa BosmaJoseph & Susan Boston*Patricia Bourke & Robert DownieDan & Litten Boxser*Susan Boyd*Terry BrackettRachel BradleyStephen BraggDyan BrasingtonJudith BraunsteinNancy BronskaMichael BrooksRobert BrooksDorothea Brown*David BrownellJanice Brunts*Linda BuchekJudy BuaHenry Bundles & Helen BakerBruce BurbageJehanne Burch*Lynn BurgessAlyssa BurnsDavid BurrowsAly BusssePhilip ButlerAdrianne CadyChristine CampbellEllen CampbellSandra Campbell-WisePerrette CannadyBeth CannataKelly Carney

Angela CarrubbaKym CarswellBob Carter*Marie CaserRobert & Carole Catineau*Humbert & Allison CazaubonJoyce Cekander*Patricia Cerefice*James & Martha ChadwickLaura ChampagneSue ChapmanVicki ChatleyKerry Cheesman Michael & Pamela ClarkeMiriam ClarkJean ClausDale ClaytonRosie CobbBarbara CocchiJudie CompherJohn ConleyTarra Conner JonesKim CoolMary CooneyJohn Linzee CoolidgePaul & Sharon CorologosKathleen Coty*Jeanne Cowan & Barnett HassRobert & Maureen CozziStephen CraigLuke CranorKendra CrossJudy CuppyFrancis CurdRobin & Chase CurtisAaron CutlerKathleen CuvielloPeggy DaitchJames & Wendy DamoulakisSquire & Karen DanielsMary Ann DavidJane DaviesRaymond DaviesHelen DavisMary DavisAlbert De FreeceEvelyn Delph & Roger Hilfiker Jerome DempseyDonald & Murva DeneenToby DeutschJoseph DeVitisAnthony DiazFrancesca DigirolamoTroy DillahuntyNancy DillardBarbara DingmanRaymond DispotoChris DixonLinda Dockendor*Paul DoedenNorbert Donelly Michael DonovanRobert DouglasJames Doyle & Paula MillerDerek DraperLinda DriggsMelissa DunlapBrian DunnHillary DunsonJoseph DzialoFern & Bruce EatroStanley & Lisa EdingLinda ElliPhyllis ElsishansCraig EngleAnna Lee ErnstThomas EspositoRobert & Ann EssnerHector EstapanRobert EvansRobert & Iris Fanger Family Foundation Dorothy FannellGary FarnerErika FaulkCady & Scott FergusonGrier FergusonJudy FialaSandy Fink

Athena Finley-UnderwoodLois FischChristiane Fischer-HarlingJamie FishRobert & Jacqui Fitzgerald*Martin FlacksCynthia FlanaganTheo FletcherWendi FogelsonNancy Fogg-Johnson & Ron JohnsonRick & Lorraine FoltzCindy FornelliKaren & Marc ForsArlene FortschRobert FottlerHerbert FoxR. Gerald FoxMary FrakerDeborah Franczek in Honor of Michele Hooper & Lem SeabrookD. Franklin*Eleonore FreihoferPaul FreiwaldHoward & Carole FriedmanCarmel FrostMary FuerstMelissa FurmanShannon FuscoRita GalloKaren GallowaySusan GalvinRukmini GaneshappaChip GaylorTeresa GeannopulosMaureen GebhardtNorb & Diana GeissMarvin GellerCharles & Leslie Gerhardt*Robert & Anne Germaine*Arnette GermanRichard & Abby Gerrity*Susan GhezziGerald Gibbs*Give Lively Foundation, Inc.Suzanne GladfelterMark GlassmanSusan Goatley*Roz Goldberg*Alan Goldbloom*Barry GolinD-Arcy GonzalesNelda GoodgamesCynthia GordonMichael GordonChester GoreeAlida GorinAl GossweilerBeth GravesMarilyn Graves*Green Cooling SolutionsDebra GreenTerry GreenJames & Ellen GreenbergerDr. Merrill & Barbara GreenbergerAlice GreenwaldJerry GrensMalushua GrithJetson GrimesSusan GrodmanKathleen Grogan & Mark GreblerJudy GuinnKenneth GumbinerLynnora HadleyDan HaedickeLynne HafAndrew & Felicia HallGeorge & Elizabeth HallGerald & Deborah HamburgDavid HamiltonJerry & Joelle HamovitJay HandelmanTeri HansonEarnest HansleyLorna Hard*David HarrisNancy HartBarney Hass

Sally HawkinsHal & Peggy HaydenPaula Hayden*Lucy HedrickLeo HelferPhyllis HemlerWilliam HenrySusan Herring* Alan & Joyce HershPatsy HeymanAnne HeynsDebora HillJanet HinesAngela Hissom Mary Jo Hixon*Kathleen HoggAnita HolecAmaris HollimanJohn HolzThamas HooverDale Horwitz*Kenneth & Doris HowardRalph HughesJoseph & Jean HurdMarcia HurwitzRichard & Eleanor HylandIra HymoInternational Women’s Forum Florida SuncoastEleanor IsraelJaih & Kim Jackson*Rochelle JacksonTimothy D. JacksonNate JacobsWendy JacobsMichael JamesDr. Jerey JanoLinda JeneweinBill JohnsonDarlene JohnsonIrene Oakley JohnsonMarion Johnson in Honor of Robert & Judy Walker’s 60th AnniversaryPhil JohnsonRaymonda JohnsonWilliam JohnsonWilliam & Elizabeth Johnston*Michelle JohnstonBarbara JonesWarren JonesKathy JordanAnthony JoseChristie JuhaszDeborah KaplanHenry KassenDavid KatzIvan & Judith KazenAnn KennyDione KenyonJohn KiddWilliam Kimbell Jr.Amina KingBillie & Lee KingDenise KircherBonita KirtonNancy KishLynn KisserMarlene KitchellBarry KlaytonCarole Kleinberg*Ted KleinmaierWilliam KlettkeRoger KlotzMartin KobakElizabeth KochKathryn KonradThomas KoskiEllen Kramer & Arthur KeyserSteven Krause*Ellen KreislerLee KrompartPeggy KronusSharon Kunkel*Barbara KupferbergRondal KushnerJudilyn KvilhaugLaurie Lachowitzer

Kim LacyJonathan LandsbergJane & Robert LangEmile & Pamela LalngloisLucy Lapides*Marilyn LapidusSophia LaRusso*James & Gail Lawrence*Greg LawrickJoshua Leach*Terry Leland*Barry LevinsonMichael & Sandy Levitan*Margaret LewisMelvy Erman LewisSusan & Bob LewisBarbara LiggettAngela LindseyCarol LinkerStacy Liljeberg & John GarmongAnn LinehanBill LittleIrwin Livon*Joyce Locklear*Kevin LoftonRaymond Lombra*Barbara LongAnne LoomerDebra LoveJoseph LowePeter & Margaret Lowndes*Peggy LowndesRudy & Lois Lucek*Marilyn LuchtRonald LusenDavid & Judith LutesBelenda MacFarlandWilliam & Francine MagnessCarolyn Major-HarperBetty MarcusRosemary MarguliesCharles & Helen MarkusDarryl & Enid MarshallDavid MarshallRichard Marshall*Virginia MarstenJames MartinBarbara MasonMary MatteottiRichard MaxenKay McAulieCarol MacPheeGreg & Torri MartinJames MartinSue McconnellJane Mccormack*Maggie McCrystalReid McCulloughJohn & Carole McDermottBarbara McElroyTimothy & Simone McKeithenMichael McKennaKathy McKownDon & Barbara McLaganNora MedinaThomas MeehanLoretta MendezElaine MerkerStephen MeulerMartha MichalsJean-Robert & Shirley MichaudRuth MickelsenBrenda MikeAlan MilbauerBarbara MillerJulia MillerKermith & Isera MillerLawrence & Shirley MillerSharon P. MillerJonathan & Michelle Mitchell*Nancy MizrahiLinda MondaGerald Montgomery in Honor of Clyde & Dorothy MontgomeryStephanie MooreLaVern MorganSharron MorganJoel MorrisonGregg Morton

Kendra MuntzLynda MurrayPeter MurrayMichael & Cindy Nash*John & Violette NegronNetwork for GoodFrank & Hannah NeubauerClarence NewbyGail NicholsBernice NissPeggy NixonConnie NortonPaula Norwood & Allen McGeeNkechi ObiMario & Aimee OlivaMary O’RourkeShelley Orren-KingBarry OshryDale OttermanJames PadillaJeanette PaladinoAnand PallegarTheron PalmerPatrice PantelloCarol PapishJames PappasPeter ParcherPauline Parrish & Cathy Wilson Bill & Debbie Partridge*Michael Pasquini*Jazi PatelBrenda Patten & Steve HutchinsonEileen PattiDebra PaulineRichard & Rosalie PearsMelissa PeckHerbert PeeplesDabney PelegrinRosann PeppardRichard Perlman*John PerryKris & Cathy Perry Joel & Michelle Pertofsky*Chrissy PetrilloWayne PeveyDeborah PhelpsRobert & Sandra PhelpsWilliam PittsMarie PogozelskiEtienne Porter*Linda Poteat-Brown*Brad Powell in Honor of Nate JacobsLouis PratoVera PressleyIvan PressmanDonna PrimasRonald PrimeauMaureen QuigleyHenri & Marilyn QuintalEve RabbinerJoan RachlinSharon RameyPamela RamhoferSusan RashidIlana RatnerEugene RaymondDaphne D. ReedTere ReisRuth ReiterEthel RevelsLynne Revo-CohenEdward RichLinda RichichiLawrence RichardMarion RichterJoan RilesRobert Ripley & Laurin Hill*Emily RizzoVicki RobbShelley RoisenMichele RollmanJacqueline RollerJames & Vicki Rollo*Mike Rosario*Francine Rosenberg

Diane Rosenblum & Mark Mitshkun in Honor of Mike & Karen GardinerLaurie Rosin*Ira & Judith Rosner*Barbara Rosovsky*Terry & Sam RothNancy Roucher*Sue RuppLinda RuppertJonathan RussDavid & Loretto Sadkin Andrew Salgado & Robert McInnesJacqueline Salvino in Honor of Penelope KingmanMary Jane SanacoreAndy SandbergLilian SandsSarasota County Tax Collector EmployeesWilliam & Diane Sarnat*Michael SarverMichael Saunders & Company*Elizabeth Scanio & Stephen BellKatherine ScherstenAlison SchillingerPatti Schimmel*Rhona & Steven SchnollFern SchwartzJohn ScibakRuth & Harvey ScribnerJudith SearHilory SeatonJoseph SeditaJohn SegalJessica SelaskyDonna SerioJane SerioSabrina ShannonDarry & Nancy ShapiroJack & Myrna ShapiroLawrence ShapiroRonald & Mary ShapiroMary ShawDavid SheppardPaul SilberEvelyn SilverWarren & Camille SimpsonLauda SisungBunny SkirbolEric Skoog & Sherri HeibergerPeri SmilowDouglas Smith & Thomas Chenault*Jerey & Sandra SmithNorris SmithPamela SmithRose Sobol*Jerey SolomonBonita SpadaforaSteven SpielmanMac & Bob SpitzerDaniel Spohn*Barbara SquadereMichael & Maryalice StamerPat Steck*Anne StegallAnne SteinBarbara StevensAudrey StewartJ Alvin Stout IIIKatherine Stout-LaBauveCarole SullivanSuncoast Women of ActionMona SunderMillard & Joann Surrency*Beth SwartzLinda TalaricoBarbara TamageMarcia Jean TaubHenry & Valerie TaylorJeanne TeeNina TepperAntonio Terry

Nadine ThomasMichael ThompsonRichard & Mary Lou ThrushLinda Tiezzi-WalderaGayle TimmermanKimberly TocciJack ToneyDeborah TriceRobert Trisolini Joel & Phyllis Tropp*James TuckerRichard & Lynne TuckerLynn TurnerTammy VaughanMartina Venz*Cathy & Jan VoigtsDrs. Sheldon & Vicki Wacksman*Bill Wagy & Beth DudaClaire WalkerHopeton WalkerJohn WallMarlene WaltersSusie WaltersSherry WarshauerCarlotta Webb*Maury WebbMary Lou Webster*Mary Sue Wechsler*Karen WehnerDr. & Mrs. Paul WeinerIrv WeiserPatricia WellingtonSusan Wertman & Ann Quackenbush*Linda WheelerBonnie WhismanMichele WieckowskiDavid & Lois Wilkins*Carol WilliamsDarryl WilliamsRichard WolbarshtArthur WoodCarol Wood*Lynn WrightWendy WymanJeanne YanaroRichard YaresBarbara YoungBliss & Maryanne Young*Charles YoungHarold Young & Carolyn Syphax-Young Thomas ZahnBette ZaretBarbara Zdravecky*Bruce Zeitlin*Janet ZettermarckChet ZoltakTHANK YOU to all of our donors!

WBTT’S 2023–2024 TEAMNate Jacobs Founder and Artistic DirectorJulie Leach Executive DirectorStefan AbnerHouse AssociatePeterly Jean BaptisteEducation and Outreach AssociateRegina BelvinDevelopment AssociateRoland BlackTechnical DirectorAriel BlueArtist Relations Associate/Assistant Box Oce ManagerAnnette BreazealeProperties Artisan ManagerKiamani CanadyStage HandDarci CollinsResident SeamstressJayde Dauley Properties InternDebra Flynt-Garrett Development DirectorDonald Frison Resident ChoreographerArnette German Receptionist/Box Oce AssociateYvette German House AssociateRobert Grant Finance ManagerBeth GravesMarketing & Communications DirectorAlexander JuddResident Sound EngineerGerald Law CustodianMarta McKinnonHouse AssociateMatthew McKinnonResident Music DirectorMydra McKinnon House AssociateMyllanna McKinnonHouse ManagerEleanor Miller Box Oce ManagerJuanita MunfordResident Stage ManagerAmber Myers Wardrobe AssistantMichael PasquiniResident Lighting DesignerAdrienne PittsWardrobe ManagerMaicy Powell Marketing AssociatePat Primavera Assistant to SeamstressPatrick RussiniResident Sound DesignerChuck SmithResident Guest DirectorZion ThompsonHouse AssociateJim WeaverEducation Director & Artistic AssociateKevin WhiteProduction ManagerDonovan WhitneyAsst to the Artistic Director/Casting CoordinatorSorcha Augustine PhotographySharon KunkelWordslinger Marketing & PRMedia RelationsPaula MurrayArtefact DesignGraphic DesignBill WagyBill Wagy ProductionsVideography

Season 2023–2024 was a wonderful season. The comparable season 2022-23 still had some eects of the Covid pandemic on ticket sales and related government support. This season we delighted in fully utilizing our renovated Gerri Aaron and the Aaron Family Foundation theatre building. We were Joyful! Joyful! just like our holiday show! Professional theatre requires significant upfront investments in rehearsal time for casts and musicians, costumes, sets, technical aspects and facilities, and even FISCAL YEAR 2023–2024 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTSin the best of times ticket sales only cover about 50% of these costs. The remainder are covered through grants and generous donors who value keeping ticket prices low enough to engage our full community and fund our free and low-cost education and community outreach programs. During the 2023-24 year, we were able to begin a 403(b) Retirement Plan for our 23 employees. All of us at WBTT are extremely grateful to our donors, government representatives and grantors for their generosity and commitment to our mission. TOTAL OPERATING INCOMEOct. 1, 2023—Sept. 30, 2024$5,519,034EARNED INCOME(MAINLY TICKET REVENUES)36%COMMUNITY SUPPORT*54%FEDERAL, STATE & LOCAL GRANTS10%COMMUNITY SUPPORT *BREAKDOWNBOARD CONTRIBUTIONS 11%FUNDRAISING EVENTS 25%FOUNDATION GRANTS 8%PRODUCTION SPONSORSHIPS & ANNUAL FUND 52%EDUCATION SUPPORT 4% Oct. 1, 2023—Sept. 30, 2024

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSESOct. 1, 2023–Sept. 30, 2024PRODUCTION PERSONNEL & PRODUCTION COSTS57%EDUCATION, OUTREACH & ARTIST DEVELOPMENT9%FUNDRAISING EVENTS5%HEALTH, PROPERTY & LIABILITY INSURANCEAND 403(B) RETIREMENT PLAN FOR EMPLOYEES 7%ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL8%MARKETING4%OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES7%$5,492,155SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION OCT 1, 2023– OCT 1, 2022– SEPT 30, 2024 SEPT 30, 2023 UNAUDITED AUDITED Earned Income (mainly ticket revenues) $1,964,082 $1,779,846Community Support (Donations) 2,981,991 2,840,798Federal Pandemic Support Through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant in 2021-22 and the Employee Retention Tax Credit in 2022–23 - 210,877Federal, State and Local Grants 572,961 287,406Total Operating Income $5,519,034 $5,118,927Production Personnel & Production Costs $3,158,876 $2,690,907Administrative Personnel 462,016 458,730New: 403(b) Retirement Plan for Employees 34,303 - Health, Property & Liability Insurance 317,562 285,839Education, Outreach & Artist Development 522,309 435,755Building Financing Expenses 156,047 133,556Marketing 204,269 162,399Fundraising Events 261,636 208,421Other Operating Expenses 375,137 318,418Total Operating Expenses $5,492,155 $4,694,025Net Operating Cash Flow $ 26,879 $ 424,902BUILDING FINANCING EXPENSES3%

2023-2024 GRANTSCOMMUNITY PARTNERSHERITAGEX-PRESS CLEANERS& ALTERATIONS

The mission of Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists, and builds confidence in youth of color.CLICK HERE to learn about how you can support our mission.The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe of Florida, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation. Federal Tax ID# 65-1040662. “A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE . REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE .” REGISTRATION NO. CH17803westcoastblacktheatre.org941-366-15051012 N ORANGE AVE SARASOTAAll photography is by Sorcha Augustine unless otherwise noted.