The Marco Players Present World Premiere, “The Bona Dea Challenge”

The world premiere of “The Bona Dea Challenge” is a story about seven women from diverse backgrounds who land in Umbria, Italy as winners of a national cooking contest only to discover that they are “test pilots” for a wild and crazy experiment. Written by Carole Fenstermacher, this marks Fenstermacher’s fourth work to be presented by The Marco Players.

Also directing the play, Carole Fenstermacher says, “The Bona Dea Challenge'' was inspired, in part, by Colleen McCullough’s epic novel, “Caesar’s Women,” and by my dear friend, Kathleen Murray, who gave me the book years ago. Bona Dea was a goddess of ancient Rome whose rites provided women access to activities otherwise forbidden to them, according to traditions of the time. The Vestal Virgins may be long gone, but the concept of women supporting other women lives on. Even while “cleaning up the sauce,” the true colors of the characters are revealed, yet they bring out the best in each other.”  

The full of life cast includes Marilyn Hilbert (Gus), Tina Cedras (C.C.), Jo Atkinson (Janet), Roseann Ruggiero (Poppy), Rose Curreri (Doris), Gay Smith (Tonya), and Marilyn Schweitzer (Rachel). 

Additionally, the theater gallery wall will display the works of featured artist Victor Caroli, an actor/photographer who has perfected his art over many years. Enjoy a preview of Caroli’s work at Caroliphotoart.com

“The Bona Dea Challenge” is on stage February 9 through February 27, 2022 at The Marco Players Theater, Marco Town Center Mall, 1089 North Collier Boulevard, Marco Island, Florida. Shows are Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00 PM and Saturday and Sunday at 3:00 PM. Tickets are $39.50 or $34 each with the purchase of a theater membership and on sale at www.TheMarcoPlayers.com or by calling the box office at 239-642-7270.