Island Players celebrate 70th season

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy, left, welcomes Holmes Beach Mayor Bob Johnson to the Island Player’s 70th season champagne reception Sept. 20 at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. Patrons mixed with actors and crews and members of Off-Stage Ladies on opening night for “The Unexpected Guest.” Islander Photos: Sandy Ambrogi

Island Players board member Diane Phinney and actor Daniel Coppinger, who portrays Inspector Thomas in “The Unexpected Guest,” pause in the lobby Sept. 20 for the celebration of the 70th season. Coppinger welcomed guests at the front door and gave a brief introduction to this year’s season.

Guests at the Island Players 70th season celebration enjoy light bites and raspberry Champagne Sept 20 at the theater, 10009 Gulf Drive, Anna Maria. They then settled into their seats for the opening night of Agatha Christie’s “The Unexpected Guest.”

Island Players performer Candace Artim, left, and friend Ron Leunk, attend the 70th season kickoff reception at the Island Players Sept. 20. Artim enjoyed the production from the audience, rather than her usual spot onstage.

Derrick Warner, left, of Bradenton, and wife Cathy relax in the theater at the Island Players 70th season reception Sept. 20. Derrick Warner plays a fire chief on the NBC series “Chicago Fire.” The two live part-time in Chicago.