Interview with Al Parinello of Surflight Theatre

Al Parinello is a Broadway producer, entrepreneur, and the owner of the historic Surflight Theatre on Long Beach Island. Under Al's leadership, the Surflight returned to producing professional Equity productions while continuing its long-standing role as a training ground for emerging artists.

Parinello is also a producer of the legendary off-Broadway musical The Fantasticks, the longest-running musical in theater history. His career spans theater, media, and live entertainment, including bringing professional theater to Atlantic City venues and founding alternative rock radio station 102.7 WJSE. Deeply committed to community, he views Surflight as a place where summer, family, pride, and the joy of live theater come together for generations of audiences.

Question One: When you learned about the Jamboree’s mission—using the performing arts to fund scholarships for graduating seniors—what resonated most with you? 

I am a strong believer in the common strength of all forms of media arts. Combining scholarships for graduating seniors with the talent and dedication of performers is pure WISDOM! The clear message it sends cannot be stronger!!

Question Two: In your own words, we’d love to hear what makes your organization special to the community — not only for the people it supports today, but for how it helps shape and inspire future generations

When I purchased Surflight Theatre, I expected to own a profitable business. What I didn't expect was to be paid back with hugs, tears and loving embraces. I wasn't ready for this kind of response. I also didn't expect to see long lines of people who were so moved by the reopening of its three year closure, show up as volunteers, with brooms, ladders, tools, cleaning apparatus ready to do whatever was needed to bring Surflight back to its original form. I'm amazed by the pure love that shows up every day!

Question Three: What do you think is important that people know about you and/or your business?

Nothing is taken for granted at Surflight Theatre. We have a rare responsibility to assure the happiness of every person buying a ticket for our performances. We want everyone leaving the Theatre to be happier than when they came in. We consistently go the extra mile to make that a reality. I wish more businesses would learn this simple success philosophy! Success is earned! It doesn't just happen.