Community SpotlightCommunity Spotlight: The TomsCommunity Spotlight Series:
Stanley & Joni Tom

Little did Stanley and Joni Tom realize when they picked up a flyer about a free performance of Shakespeare by the Sea's "Comedy of Errors" that this would be the start of a ten year summer tradition for their family.

Because they have been to every performance Stanley and Joni have witnessed our growth through the years.  For example, the very flyer that they stumbled upon in a Crown Books store in Long Beach that day was a hand cut, black and white photocopy, now they see professional printed multicolored flyers.  In addition the Toms enjoy staying up to date with Shakespeare by the Sea activities and seasonal productions through frequent emails, website updates, and postcards. 

Back in 1998, Stanley and Joni's first experience with Shakespeare by the Sea, they joined the over 3,000 others who flocked to Point Fermin Park to watch the inaugural production of Comedy of Errors. There was no set or sound system, just rudimentary lighting and costuming.  "The experience was so enjoyable and cast so enthusiastic despite this lack" impressed Joni and Stanley.  They saw great potential with added resources.  Since then Stanley says "every aspect of the productions has become more elaborate and the troupe has become more ambitious. It's been fascinating and satisfying to watch their progress."  They are now enjoying Shakespeare's works with full lights, multi-level set designs, great costumes, and a complete sound system with music and microphones. 

The Tom family has also grown with the addition of son Nathan, and they continue to attend the performances at Point Fermin as well as one or two of the performances on tour.  Stanley and Joni feel that it is "a great service to offer underserved communities" and that it is "important to expose children to theatre so they can learn to appreciate the experience."  One thing that they have always counted on is that Shakespeare by the Sea remains family friendly; it is this accessible "casual atmosphere" that Stanley claims to be "a big part of the appeal."  We are so lucky to have Stanley and Joni Tom as part of our SBTS family. 

It is not only "a big highlight of their summer to see and support us by bringing friends and giving annually," but also a huge honor for us to be able to launch their story as the first in our Community Spotlight series.  Thank you Stanley and Joni!

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