Ring of Fire -- The Music of Johnny Cash presents the music of Johnny Cash as the storybook of his life. From his early songs to the end of his first marriage to his first moments with June Carter Cash, his story unwinds through his song lyrics. This Chicagoland premiere is a show for anyone who enjoys the incredibly diverse Johnny Cash songbook.
The actors playing Johnny Cash share the stage as the songs move through his life. Kent Lewis performs as the mature Johnny Cash, bringing wisdom to his life. Michael Goodman is the younger Johnny, with all the enthusiasm youth provides. The two perform songs through both acts of the play. It's not a situation where you see Young Johnny and then mature Johnny. The two switch back and forth as the story unwinds.
Cory Goodrich is enchanting at Johnny's first wife and then June Carter Cash. She changes personalities as she evolves from one wife to the next with convincing emotion. Her voice shines through the songbook.
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You'll recognize some of the 30+ songs performed, but the best performances happen with the songs you don't recognize. No matter what your musical tastes you'll find songs you like as the songbook moves from gospel to folk to rock to blues. Johnny starts singing in the Arkansas cotton fields and continues until he makes it to the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. There's a funny moment when the Grand Ole Opry "announcer" does a live commercial, just like you'd hear if you went to the Grand Ole Opry today.
The band backing up the main performers is wonderful. Greg Hirte, Malcolm Ruhl, Billy Schaffer and William Underwood make sure the show retains its live concert feel. Their talents are appreciated by the audience throughout the show.
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This is going to be another cold, snowy weekend. Ring of Fire will warm your evening with authentic music and a great story. Ring of Fire is at the Theatre at the Center in Munster, IN. If you haven't been there, it's a quick 30 minute drive just over the Illinois/Indiana state lines. There's plenty of free parking at the intimate theater.
Ring of Fire performances are Wednesday and Thursday at 2:00 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m, and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. This is a good show for the whole family from grandparents to grandchildren. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or visit www.theatreatthecenter.com
Disclosure: We did attend the media premier. My words and opinions are my own.
