Opening Day of Murder & Mai-Tais: A Celebration of Creativity and Hard Work

The curtain is rising, and the excitement is building!
Behind this production is a cast that has embraced the power of collaboration. Director Tory Flounders shared what makes this show especially meaningful:
“One person’s idea could spark another, and one actor’s choice could give someone else a new moment to play. Each person brought something different, and those differences became a strength when they came together. That is what makes me most proud of this production. This cast rose to every challenge with creativity and determination without ever losing their sense of joy. The result is something shaped by many different ideas, strengths, and personalities coming together.”
These words capture the heart of Loveland Center’s performing arts program: celebrating individual strengths, encouraging creative expression, and discovering what is possible when people work together.

Meet the Cast
Every performer brings a unique story, talent, and personality to the stage:
- Bobby (Robert Sinatra) brings his love of music, Frank Sinatra, and years of performing with the Loveland Performing Arts Center and Pinky’s Players.
- Chris (Officer Nick Norris) brings previous theater experience and a competitive spirit, including recent success in swimming at the Special Olympics State Games.
- Clint (Owner Jeff James) combines four years with the Loveland Performing Arts Center and 11 years as a Pinky’s Players performer with his signature stage personality.
- Vanessa (Detective Dana Drew) draws on more than 15 years of theater experience and a deep passion for performing.
- Allie (Host Gary Goldman) brings energy and movement to the stage, inspired by his love of hip-hop dance and karate.
- Jeri (Vivian Van Lavish) returns to the stage with a love of bringing memorable characters to life.
- Bridget (Audrey) is excited to join the Loveland Players, bringing experience from previous productions and enthusiasm for her role.
- Joe (Chris) shares his talents with both the Loveland Players and Pinky’s Players and is also a musician in two bands.
- Jaclyn (Maid Melinda Moore) brings her experience in comedy and performance, including a Grand Ole Opry appearance and stand-up comedy.
- Sandy (Chef Catrina Cole) brings enthusiasm to the stage and recently earned medals in swimming at the Special Olympics State Games.
- David (Gardener Joseph Green) draws on an impressive 55 years of theater experience and a longstanding love of the stage.
- Shannon (Waitress Wanda Williams) brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a love of the theater community to every production.
Together, these performers demonstrate that a great production is about more than memorizing lines. It is about teamwork, confidence, imagination, and the joy of sharing something special with an audience.

Thank You to Our Sponsors
A production like Murder & Mai-Tais would not be possible without the generosity and support of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who helped bring this show to life:
Presenting Sponsor
- Gulf Coast Community Foundation, made possible through the Mildred F. Currie Charitable Fund
Producing Sponsors
- David and Katherine Williams
Showtime Sponsor
- The James Family
Spotlight Sponsors
- Teresa Da Costa
- Amanda Girton
Decor Sponsor
- The Pustizzi Family
Your generosity helps create meaningful opportunities for Loveland participants to develop their talents, build confidence, and shine onstage. We are grateful for your commitment to our mission and the performing arts.

A Special Dedication
These performances are lovingly dedicated to Christy, a cherished Loveland Center participant.
Here’s to a memorable opening day, a wonderful run, and a cast that reminds us what can happen when everyone has the opportunity to shine!

