Ring Of Fire: the Johnny Cash Musical - Theatre Three | 3.8.15

Theatre Three is currently presenting the musical revue “Ring of Fire” featuring the music of Johnny Cash from March 1st to March 30th. Directed by Theatre Three veteran Christine Boehm, this production is sure to please any Johnny Cash fan and country music fans alike! For those unfamiliar with jukebox musicals, I think you’re in for a real treat. Personally I think they get a bad rap; people often complain that they are boring and uninspired but I find them fun! Think of a concert with arrangements of songs with harmonies similar to what we would hear in musical theater with a light-hearted plot (or none at all!) and you’ve got a music revue.

I don’t know about you, but simple fun is often good fun and Theatre Three’s production is no exception. Ring of Fire is particularly impressive because each one of the vocalists plays their own instruments alongside the band on stage. We aren’t talking about something simple like a cowbell or a grade school recorder either - multiple cast members are playing keyboard, acoustic guitar, and even an accordion! The set design is fantastic as well, with the signature T3 lighting to boot. 

Kyle Breitenbach and Cassidy Rose O'Brien

Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein

Thankfully this show isn’t just visually appealing. It was a pleasure to see Kyle Breitenbach back on stage and filling out harmonies with his strong, bass voice that supported each number all while toggling back and forth between guitars, the keyboard, and a harmonica. His duet with Cassidy Rose O’Brien singing the title song “Ring of Fire” was delightful. This was also the first time I’ve heard O’Brien sing this much and I’m glad I got to witness it! She was especially fantastic in Act 2’s “All Over Again.” Michael Mandato and Tina Ann Aurora (making her Theatre Three debut) also provided solid vocals that were highlighted in songs like “Jackson” and “Oh, Come, Angel Band.” Dan Schindlar was also a standout, shining quite nicely during Act 1’s “Get Rhythm.”

Tina Ann Aurora, Cassidy Rose O'Brien, Michael Mandato

Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein

One of the nicest surprises for me was seeing Resident Music Director Jeffrey Hoffman on stage playing piano, singing, and performing in the show! Hoffman has a smile that lights up the room and has a stage presence that you’ll find endearing. I was also excited to see Ryan Van Nostrand return to the stage; he has a wonderful voice with a gorgeous tone and I think you’ll be most impressed with “Tear-Stained Letter” and “I Still Miss Someone,” a duet with Aurora. I was also told that Van Nostrand learned the ukulele specifically for this show, which I find *extra* impressive.

Whether you are a fan of Johnny Cash, country music, musical theater - or just looking for a great night out, Theatre Three’s production of “Ring of Fire” is a fantastic choice. It will be playing at the theater until March 30th and tickets can be purchased at the door, by calling the box office, or by visiting their website at www.theatrethree.com.

Full Company

Photo Credit: Steven Uihlein

Cast:

Tina Ann Aurora

Kyle M. Breitenbach

Jeffrey Hoffman

Michael Mandato

Cassidy Rose O’Brien

Dan Schindlar

Ryan Van Nostrand

Band:

Jeffrey Hoffman - Piano, Keyboard, Flute, Accordion

Marni Harris - Fiddle

John Dericco - Acoustic & Electric Guitars/Mandolin

Dave Grudzinski/Ethan Mascarenas - Bass

Don Larsen - Drums

Creative Team:

Director - Christine Boehm

MUSIC DIRECTOR - Jeffrey Hoffman

Production Stage Manager - Melissa Troxler

SOUND Design - Tim Haggerty

Scenic Design - Randall Parsons

LIGHTING DESIGN/Technical Direction - Steve Barile, Jr.

Costume Design - Christine Boehm