In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen Weardon sits down with Kristen Coury, the visionary Founder, CEO, and Producing Artistic Director of the Gulf Shore Playhouse. Arriving in Naples in 2004 from the high-stakes theater worlds of London and New York City, Kristen saw an opportunity to bring professional, Broadway-caliber theater to this arts-loving community.
What began as a one-woman operation with a $0 budget and no employees has blossomed over 20 years into a powerhouse cultural institution. Kristen shares the raw, behind-the-scenes journey of building the Playhouse—from "bootstrapping" productions with $40 outfits from Marshalls to opening a state-of-the-art, multimillion-dollar theater complex. This is a story of manifestation, ruthless passion, and the transformative power of the arts on a city’s economy and soul.
“I do what I do so that the audience can have a life-changing experience...The moment that I quit would be the moment right before there was success.” — Kristen Coury.
Connect with Gulf Shore Playhouse:
For tickets & information, visit GulfshorePlayhouse.org to view upcoming shows and events.
Follow online by connecting with Kristen Coury and the Playhouse on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates on world premieres.
Thank you to our location sponsor, Gulfshore Playhouse, for allowing us to record in their Founder's Lounge.
Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.
