“There is no question that the message of truth and kindness contained in Tony Bottagarošs Mario the Peddler is invaluable. It serves as a reminder to always remember the importance of sincerity and compassion in our daily lives.”
Anne E. Schmid — President, Longmont Council for the Arts

“As a Major Gifts Officer at the Colorado Historical Society, it was my pleasure
to work with Tony Bottagaro and the staff of Mario the Peddler Productions.
The live production of Mario the Peddler was entertaining and motivating.
With the great work…of…Mario the Peddler Productions…we hosted a
sold-out venue. Tony captivated the audience with his wit, wisdom, and
whimsical spirit. The audience's response was one of compassion for Mario,
and Tony's representation of Mario is inspirational. We all need to be
reminded of our uniqueness as we embrace the diversity around us.”
Tamara Durstine — Major Gifts Officer, Colorado Historical Society

“…spiritually uplifting…”
John Hay — Co-founder of Celestial Seasonings

“When you go see Tony Bottagaro's astonishing one-man play Mario the
Peddler, based on the book The Poet, The Count, and The Peddler, you will
wish you had a tape recorder or a pen and pad to capture the memorable,
beautiful, wondrous quotes that flood the audience like spray from the Count's
magic elixir bottle. This is a "soul-shattering" experience, a magical moment
that will expand your mind, open your heart to love, and make you a different
person. Make you a better person.”
Dr. Robert J. Pugel — Assoc. Prof. Emeritus-English, Univ. of Colorado

“Tony is on a mission to evoke the love and connection that we all have for
one another. His ability to transform the provocative character and messages
from his book into a live performance helps Tony reach out even more while
giving nonprofits an opportunity to raise funds for their own important
programs and initiatives.”
Maria E. Scordo Allen — Vice Consul of Italy for Colorado & Wyoming

“…brilliant words of wisdom…should be shared with the world… We thank you for
bringing his message…presented in such a warm and wonderful way.”
Guy & Cathy Scoma

“Tony Bottagaro utilizes the rich traditions of our forefathers to peddle ideas.
These thought-provoking mini discourses about humanity are pitched out
to the audience with humor and zest. This is an evening of surprises,
laughter and reminders of what makes us humane. ”
Leonard T. Segel —Architect

“…philosophical musings certainly made us all pause and think about what is
important in life! Thank you so very much for…a splendid evening.”
Georgianna Contiguglia — President & CEO, Colorado Historical Society

Photographs by Sherri Stewart O'Hara/oharaphotography.com.