Florida's Own Tribute to Folk Legends: Honalee Hits the Stage!

Florida's Own Tribute to Folk Legends: Honalee Hits the Stage!

The sunshine state is gearing up for a delightful tribute as Florida Studio Theatre presents “A Band Called Honalee: A Tribute to Peter, Paul and Mary … and Friends.” Producer Aaron Gandy, who has a rich background in Broadway productions, conceived this heartfelt show about twelve years ago after the arrival of his daughter. Since then, it has enjoyed tremendous popularity, touring across all 50 states for over a decade. Gandy describes the performance as a labor of love, designed to bring joy to audiences of all ages. With the show set to open on August 21 and running through October 26, there’s much anticipation surrounding this nostalgic musical experience.

The cast, comprising four talented performers, will bring to life iconic songs from Peter, Paul and Mary, along with beloved hits by Bob Dylan, the Mamas and the Papas, Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot, and even The Beatles. Notably, older audience members may initially approach the younger cast with skepticism, but Gandy asserts that by the fourth song, hearts warm up considerably. The song “Lemon Tree” typically serves as the turning point, often coaxing the audience into a harmonious sing-along. Indeed, the spirit of these timeless classics shines through, appealing to both older folks familiar with the originals and younger ones drawn in by familial ties to the music.

Florida’s Special Charm

Located in the southeastern region of the United States, Florida boasts a unique charm that draws visitors from around the globe. Renowned for its stunning coastline, approximately 1,350 miles long, Florida offers European-style vacations without the need to cross the Atlantic. This sunny state is the third most populous in the U.S., housing over 23 million people, and boasts an area of 65,758 square miles, making it the 22nd largest state.

Tourism plays a pivotal role in Florida’s economy, which ranks as the fourth largest in the nation, with a gross state product of $1.647 trillion. Attractions such as Walt Disney World and the Kennedy Space Center highlight Florida as a top destination. The state is not only rich in history, being the first place in the continental U.S. settled by Europeans in St. Augustine, founded in 1565, but it’s also a patchwork of diverse cultures. It is home to significant Hispanic, African American, and Caribbean communities.

A Rich Tapestry of Nature

Visitors to Florida are often captivated by its remarkable ecosystems. The Everglades, a vast network of wetlands, showcases the state’s breathtaking natural beauty and diversity. Florida is primarily a low-lying plain, with most areas sitting under 100 feet above sea level, shaped by water, tides, and the persistent forces of nature. The high point in the state, located in Walton County, is a modest 345 feet, a reminder of Florida’s geological youth.

With a climate that ranges from subtropical in the north to tropical down south, and wildlife including the Florida panther and manatee, there’s something to be said for the richness of the state’s environment. The seven physiographic regions, spanning from coastal lowlands to rolling highlands, offer both residents and tourists a chance to explore the diverse landscapes and vibrant ecosystems.

As “A Band Called Honalee” prepares to take the stage, it serves as a wonderful reminder of the timeless music that has influenced generations, much like the vibrant spirit and unyielding charm of Florida itself. Tickets for the show are available now, priced at $18 for previews and $37-$42 for regular performances. Don’t miss this opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy a musical journey through beloved folk classics.