As the curtain lifts and the audience is greeted by the clicking euphony of tap dancing feet inviting them into the dazzling world of Broadway, the kinetic and connected spirit of the ensemble of 42nd Street is evident.

Hours of blood, sweat, and tears have been poured into rehearsing this production, but that is dim in bonding efforts compared to the massive final meal prepared by Joseph Loiacono, lovingly referred to as Papa Joe at The Naples Players (TNP), for the entire 102 person team of 42nd Street.

“My heart desperately wanted to do my last performance in the new theater and take my final bow ever on the new stage. My dream has come true!” says Papa Joe. “I love this community. I’ve seen people grow up, I’ve seen babies born, I’ve seen marriages and relationships blossom. I have been so blessed to be a part of this community, and thank God every day for all he’s given me. I’m so proud to be a part of all of these beautiful people’s lives. After many years, my brain says, ‘I can do it.’ My heart says, ‘you want to do it.’ My body says, ‘I don’t think so.’ But, even in my retirement, I’ll have these people and the friendships I’ve created. I hope this theater goes on forever and ever, even without me.”

21 years – that’s how long Loiacono has been volunteering at TNP. Following two successful careers running an advertising and marketing firm in New York City and running a restaurant in Texas, Papa Joe arrived in Naples and immediately looked for the best community theater in town.

“My wife and I went downtown and saw a production of Sweet Charity, and were thoroughly impressed by the level of talent. That night I told my wife, ‘this is going to be my new home.’” says Papa Joe, “I auditioned for Guys & Dolls – two days later, I got a call, and that started my career and life here at The Naples Players. I can’t tell you how happy I have been for the past 21 years. The Naples Players has been the highlight of my life. It’s very sad that 42nd Street will be my last performance here after 28 shows.”

Papa Joe grew up in a talented family that heavily valued the arts. “I started performing at the age of 15. My mother was an opera singer, so I was always surrounded by music. I had to take piano lessons and practice every day. I took voice lessons and have done productions in high school, college, and all throughout my life.” Alongside his mother, Joe’s father heavily supported her performances through everyone’s favorite way to their hearts: food.

“Food and Italians just go together. It’s always a pleasure to cook for people and to see people enjoying their meal and time together. My father had a tradition that when my mother had a final rehearsal, he’d prepare a grand buffet of food for the cast, creative team, and crew. His theory was that food brings people together and that’s what makes them happy. I continue that tradition here at TNP every final Saturday rehearsal. I do it in remembrance of my father, and love doing it because I love the people here. Some people I’ve been feeding from 8 years old to 29 years old.”

Over 28 productions, Papa Joe has seen a lot of change. “I came to TNP at the same time as Dawn Lebrecht Fornara [Director and Choreographer of 42nd Street] and Charles Fornara [Music Director of 42nd Street], and I love them both dearly. They do a phenomenal job on all of their productions, and have created a safe and creative space for so many people, myself included. And Bryce Alexander [CEO & Artistic Director] – I am blown away with the progress he has made and how much he has developed this theater.”

“This has been 21 years of professional-level productions. All the time, people come up to me and say, ‘We went to see this show on Broadway, and this show was far better than that.’ We’re producing Broadway-caliber shows for our community, and I couldn’t be prouder. That’s why we are one of the best community theatres in the country, and certainly the best in my book. The hard work and dedication of everyone from our staff and volunteers is what makes TNP the best part of my life. TNP has been my family for the past 21 years. I love you all, God bless you.”

As Papa Joe takes his final bows this summer, many performers are taking their first. For Papa Joe, this is a bittersweet moment, and what he knows will be the start of so many exciting adventures and stories for his legacy to touch. “I have never missed a show or a rehearsal. I love it here and am so blessed to be a part of this organization. We are a family. I wish I could be here forever – continue for another 20 years – but that’s not possible. For the people who do have another 20 years, appreciate it. Every time you step on that stage, whether it be auditions, rehearsals, or performing, take it seriously. You never know when you’ll do the thing you love for the last time. It’s a labor of love. Am I going to miss it? Yes. And I will continue supporting this place until my last breath.”

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 – Saturdays at 7:30 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.