What began as a practical solution has become one of Southern Shakespeare Company’s most beloved traditions as this year’s production of “The Tempest” lands Feb. 19-22.

Five years ago, during a Festival production of “Twelfth Night,” the company needed to fill one small role. Rather than hire an additional actor for just a few lines, the creative team invited a notable member of the Tallahassee community to step onstage.

Community connection

The response was enthusiastic — but scheduling made it impractical for any one person to appear in all four performances. Instead, the role was shared, with a different local figure stepping on stage each night. What began as a practical choice revealed a deeper connection between the stage and the community — and a tradition was born.

Since then, Southern Shakespeare’s Festival productions have featured a Local Celebrity Cameo — an opportunity for community leaders, advocates, and familiar local voices to literally take part in the storytelling.

Each guest performer receives their own costume, their lines in advance, and a single rehearsal with the cast. Once their scene is complete, they’re invited to join the audience and enjoy the rest of the performance from the other side of the footlights.

Sometimes, the cameo is tailored specifically to the individual. During “Antony & Cleopatra,” the role was personalized for each night’s guest. When Philo addressed Dr. Jai Vartikar, First Lady of Florida State University, as “FSUvius,” the student-heavy audience erupted with cheers — a moment that could only have happened in Tallahassee.