Foo Foo Fest 2025 is turning the spotlight on something completely new with THE LUCK, a world-premiere musical presented by PenArts. Running November 4 through 9 at the Gordon Community Art Center, this fully realized production tells the adventurous story of a group of men leaving their New England homes to chase gold in California during 1851. Inspired by Bret Harte’s novella The Luck of Roaring Camp, it’s a story about hope, risk, and human connection set against the rugged and unpredictable backdrop of the Gold Rush. And just when you think the tale has pulled you in, the music grabs hold—a mix of bluegrass, folk, and contemporary musical theater that lingers long after the curtain falls.
The show was written and is performed by The Lubben Brothers, triplets from Nashville making their professional musical theater debut. Christine Kellogg, Artistic Director of PenArts, has been following their journey for years and couldn’t be more thrilled to feature them at Foo Foo Fest. “We did a show together a few years ago, and in 2021 we brought them to Pensacola for the first time,” she recalls. “They’ve grown so much since then. They’re phenomenally talented—and really nice people. Everyone who knows them knows they play all kinds of instruments. They switch off instruments during the show, playing live, which adds another level of excitement to the performance.”
This fully immersive experience goes well beyond the music to blend storytelling and movement right in. The Americana roots are unmistakable, while the energy feels contemporary, bridging historical context with modern musical theater. “We have eight actors—seven local and one from South Florida—and they bring the story to life with the band right behind them,” Christina adds. “It’s uplifting, fun, and appropriate for all ages.”
PenArts’ connection to Foo Foo Fest makes the timing perfect for a show like this. “This musical is aiming for heights much higher. By taking advantage of the opportunity to see it at Foo Foo, you can get in on the ground floor of seeing a world-premiere musical,” Christine says. “It’s a really good story, and you get to see a Nashville band playing live every night. We love telling new stories in intimate spaces, and this one just felt right for us.”
PenArts has become a cornerstone of Pensacola’s arts scene, bringing bold, inventive performances to the community and championing local talent alongside visiting artists, and Christine is excited that Foo Foo is providing the organization with an opportunity to bring the world-premiere to the city. “We love being part of Pensacola’s arts scene—the talent here is amazing,” she says. “Our goal is always to have people experience something new, something live, and something they’ll remember. THE LUCK is that kind of show.”
Tickets are $20 for general admission and can be purchased at penarts.org.