Market Theatre Brings “Margaritaville” to Green Pond

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

Green Pond Landing and Event Center will open its growing entertainment lineup this week with a production of Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville, running Wednesday through Monday.

The musical, produced by Market Theatre, pairs Buffett’s island-themed songs with a new story set to match the site’s lakefront setting. Drew Whitley, associate artistic director for Market Theatre, said the show was chosen in part because it fits the “lake vibe” at Green Pond Landing as summer begins.

Whitley said the team wanted something “beachy and fun” and also relatively new to the area. “Escape to Margaritaville” debuted on Broadway only a few years ago and has not been staged often locally.

The production features familiar Buffett songs including “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “Volcano,” “Son of a Sailor” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” The show is part of an effort to bring more entertainment programming to Green Pond Landing and Event Center, which is expanding beyond its traditional role as a lake-access and event venue.

The production is made possible by Anderson County’s recent upgrades of electrical power availability and lighting at Green Pond.