In the words of a song by Howard Livingston, “There’s still a lot of magic in Key West.” That magic will be on full display Saturday, April 11, when Livingston and his Mile Marker 24 Band take audiences on a musical journey around the island city and the entire Florida Keys.
Their “Endless Summer” concert is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road. The two-hour performance will showcase the band’s trop-rock melodies that capture the essence of the Keys’ saltwater days and rum-kissed nights — while raising money for the nonprofit Care Camps Foundation that provides specialized summer camps for kids diagnosed with cancer.
“The band and I are ready to rock the house and help some very special children along the way,” said Livingston. “We’re bringing in some exciting surprise guests, mixing up margaritas, and celebrating the Florida Keys.”
Sharing the stage will be a “bonus band member”: a 1952 Johnson outboard motor that Livingston turned into a supersized margarita blender. Its presence provides a lighthearted accompaniment to Mile Marker 24’s sun-drenched songs, ranging from the classic “Blame It On the Margaritas” and “Livin’ On Key West Time” to “House Down By the Sea” from the 2024 CD of the same name.
Livingston, who in his former life was a Chicago businessman, first visited the Keys in the early 1980s. He subsequently bought property and built a house on Summerland Key, near MM 24 on the Overseas Highway.
After happily renouncing his northern life, he created a music career based on the Keys experience. He and the band have since released 11 CDs, developed a busy touring schedule, and performed for national audiences on programs that include CBS’ “The Early Show” and ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
The April 11 concert will include visuals and stories that immerse listeners in a multisensory Keys experience. Also planned is a tribute to Jimmy Buffett, who pioneered the trop-rock genre and, like Livingston, found his voice and musical inspiration in the Keys.
The show also will include information about the Care Camps Foundation, which helps send children with cancer and their families to camps where they can enjoy the outdoor experience and focus on “being kids” instead of on their illness.
“As much fun as the music and night will be, what really matters is helping kids who are going through something no child should have to face,” said Livingston. “That’s what the Keys are all about — showing up and making a difference.”
Tickets are $25 or $35 per person plus fees, with proceeds supporting the Care Camps Foundation. For tickets, as well as sponsorship packages that also support the organization, visit twstages.com/endlesssummer.
