Spotlight: A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN at Gretna Theatre

Gretna Theatre invites audiences to experience the passion, grit, and unforgettable music of one of rock and roll’s most iconic voices with A Night with Janis Joplin, running June 18–21, 2026.

Written and created by Randy Johnson and directed by Ryan B. Gibbs, this powerhouse musical event is presented in collaboration with Totem Pole Playhouse. More than a traditional musical biography, is a full-throttle concert experience celebrating the woman and the musical influences who inspired her. Audiences will journey from Janis Joplin’s humble beginnings in Port Arthur, Texas to her meteoric rise as a counterculture icon, all set to a soundtrack packed with legendary hits including “Piece of My Heart,” “Cry Baby,” “Mercedes Benz,” and “Me and Bobby McGee.”

Leading the production as Janis is acclaimed performer Francesca Ferrari, who previously starred in A Night with Janis Joplin on the national tour as well as productions at Florida Studio Theatre, North Carolina Theatre, and Ivoryton Playhouse. Ferrari’s additional credits include Les Misérables at The Muny and Beautiful at CMTSJ. Her dynamic vocal power and emotional authenticity make her uniquely suited to embody the legendary rocker’s spirit onstage.

Joining Ferrari is an all-star ensemble of powerhouse vocalists portraying some of the greatest blues and soul artists of the era, including Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, and Bessie Smith.

The cast features Jannie Jones, Gabbi Mack, Tanea Renee, Crystal Sha’Nae, and Laura Frye. Director Ryan B. Gibbs, Producing Artistic Director of Totem Pole Playhouse, brings decades of Broadway and national touring experience to the production, with credits including Wicked, Rent, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Mary Poppins.

Backed by a live band and infused with the spirit of 1960s rock, blues, and soul, A Night with Janis Joplin promises an unforgettable night of music that invites audiences to sing along, dance in their seats, and leave with their hearts wide open.

Performance Schedule: Thursday, June 18 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 19 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 21 at 2:00 p.m Tickets and additional information are available through or by calling the box office at 717-964-3627.