LEAVING ON A JET PLANE: A FOLK JOURNEY Will Open 2026 Summer Season at Florida Studio Theatre

Florida Studio Theatre will kick off its 2026 Summer Season with Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey, an intimate and nostalgic journey through the ‘60s folk movement. Featuring hit songs from Simon & Garfunkel to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, this cabaret celebrates the spirit of a generation. Previews begin May 12, officially opening May 14, with performances through July 12 in FST's Goldstein Cabaret.

Created by Producer and Music Supervisor Aaron Gandy, Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey rediscovers the heart and harmony of the 1960s in an intimate and joyful tribute. Featuring acoustic favorites from John Denver, Joni Mitchell, The Lovin' Spoonful, and Cat Stevens, this warm and authentic cabaret proves that folk music wasn't just a moment: it was a movement.

“It's a pleasure to have Florida Studio Theatre carry on the legacy of this influential genre,” said Gandy. “FST's commitment to intimate, high-quality performances is a perfect match for this music, which has always been about connection, community, and shared experience. We're honored to celebrate these timeless songs with Sarasota audiences.”

A specialist in American musical theatre and popular song, Gandy has produced acclaimed symphonic and theatrical works, including last summer's hit cabaret A Band Called Honalee. He has also conducted Broadway productions of Disney's The Lion King, Urinetown, and Dora the Explorer Live! at Radio City Music Hall.

The lively cast features Collin Purcell, making his FST debut after touring nationally with A Band Called Honalee since 2023. Returning to FST is Brian Ott, who previously appeared in 59th Street Bridge and last summer's production of A Band Called Honalee. Rounding out the cast is Katie Blackwell, stepping into her first full FST cabaret after appearing in select performances of that same production. They are joined by a rotating lineup of bass players, led by Geoff Neuman, who also performed at FST last summer in A Band Called Honalee.

The creative team includes Catherine Randazzo (Line Producer), Andrew Gray (Lighting Design), Nicholas Christensen (Sound Design), and Carissa Ater (Sound and Lightboard Operator).