Florida Studio Theatre Announces Second Extension for Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey

SARASOTA, Fla. (July 10, 2026) — Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is excited to announce that its hit summer cabaret Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey has been extended for a second time through July 26, 2026, in FST's Goldstein Cabaret. Featuring timeless music by artists like Joni Mitchell and The Lovin’ Spoonful, this acclaimed cabaret celebrates the spirit of the 1960s folk movement.

Critics and audiences alike have been singing the show's praises since opening night. BroadwayWorld called it a “surefire hit” that is both “enchanting” and “dynamic.” Family Beautiful hailed the show as a “deeply satisfying” and “beautifully crafted” cabaret brimming with “harmonic richness.” The Venice Gondolier-Sun simply declared, "Don't miss this flight."

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, Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, and more, this intimate and uplifting cabaret shows that the folk era was more than just a few catchy tunes.

"It's been incredible to see how deeply Sarasota audiences connect with this music," said Gandy. "These songs remind us of where we've been, the people we've shared our lives with, and the values that continue to bring us together. Every performance becomes a shared experience."

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.

Bringing these iconic songs to life are Collin Purcell, Brian Ott, and Katie Blackwell, whose warm vocals and easy camaraderie have made the production a favorite among theatregoers. Accompanied by a live band led by Geoff Neuman, the performers create an intimate concert experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

“This music is timeless,” said vocalist Katie Blackwell. “Music is the one thing that your brain never forgets. It's the one thing that sticks with you. Not only that, but the messages are so prevalent, then and now."

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

Whether discovering these classics for the first time or revisiting the soundtrack of their youth, audiences will find an evening filled with bliss, authenticity, and unforgettable music in this hit tribute.

Relive the timeless joy of the 1960s with Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey, now extended through July 26, 2026. Single tickets start at $37.

The show is part of FST's Summer Cabaret Series, which also includes Songbirds of the Seventies and Legacy: Motown & More!. Summer Cabaret subscriptions start at just $59. Tickets and subscriptions are available at FloridaStudioTheatre.org or by calling (941) 366-9000.

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Sponsors

Florida Studio Theatre is grateful to its sponsors of the 2026 Summer Cabaret Season: Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax, The Shubert Foundation, The Exchange, and Florida Arts & Culture.

About Florida Studio Theatre

Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is Sarasota’s contemporary theatre. Founded in 1973, FST has grown to a village of five theatres located in the heart of downtown Sarasota. Each theatre is small in size and large in impact – providing intimate and engaging settings for high-quality, professional performances. 

Today, FST has established itself as a major force in American Theatre. FST is the largest subscription theatre in the state of Florida and among the largest in the country, serving more than 225,000 live attendees each year across its diverse programs: Mainstage, Cabaret, Stage III, Children’s Theatre, Improv, The FST School, and New Play Development.

Even with its growth, Florida Studio Theatre remains firmly committed to making the arts accessible and affordable to as many people as possible. Under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Richard Hopkins, FST develops theatre that speaks to our living, evolving, and dynamically changing world. Hip and historical, entertaining and challenging, we are where everyone is welcome to engage in the art of theatre.