ANNA MARIA – The oldest theater group in Manatee County held its annual banquet at the Bradenton Country Club recently with awards and recognition for those serving onstage and behind the scenes.
Island Players President Sylvia Marney honored Ruth Steven for her 50 years of service to the Players. The sound and light board room will be named for her and a plaque bearing her name will be installed over the door.
The IGO Award for “longtime and outstanding service” went to Diane Phinney. The award is named after Island Players founder Harold Igo. Three volunteers earned their 20-year awards. They were Claudette Welch, director Kelly Lynn Woodland and actor Mark Woodland.
The Island Players will begin their 71st season on Sept. 19 with “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling and directed by Mike Lusk. For more information, visit www.theislandplayers.org.