Saturday, January 31st, I saw Firehouse Theatre’s Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash. I’ve been attending musicals at Firehouse for a very, very long time, and (hand to God) I’ve never once been disappointed. Not once. The sets, performers, costumes, were always impeccable. The actors lively and authentic, the stories absorbing and songs memorable. So, naturally, my expectations last Saturday night were high.
Ring of Fire details the life of Johnny Cash, preeminent country singer, master of heartbreak, romance and devotion. Each song ties in handily with the convivial and somber times of his life: devastating flood, loss of his brother Jack, auditioning for a studio, his first connection with bride to be. Vivid imagery nails the situation just right. I ain’t seen the sunshine. I walk the line. I jumped in to a burning ring. The lyric and melody are deeply touching, raucous and chipper, soulful and filled with faith. I have always admired the frank, steady, poignant stories of country music. It’s not easy to do well. To communicate the impact of God in our lives. The hope of seeing our loved ones who have gone before. The confidence that even through the inexplicable, that God has our back. Knowing that He cares.
We explore Johnny Cash’s empathy for the lost souls of Folsom Prison, his declaration of fidelity to June Carter, sweet and joyful times around the kitchen table. Each episode adds another piece to the story. The cast (Ben Meaders, Gideon Ethridge, Nathan Benson, Bryson Morlan, Audrey Reidling) is confident, versatile, with sunshine to spare. The double and triple casting must be quite a workout. Their heads are definitely in the game. The spirited music is contagious. It pulls you right in, and gets you hooked. In the best possible way. We’re helpless to enjoy and embrace those warm, human moments.
Mr. Benson. It seems I was sitting right in front of your folks. They said they had no idea you played the horn.
Get your tickets now for Ring of Fire: A heartfelt, boisterous, inspiring evening of jubilation!
Firehouse Theatre Presents: Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash. Playing January 30th, February 15th, 2026. 2535 Valley View Lane, Farmers Branch, TX, United States, 75234. thefirehousetheatre.com. (972) 620-3747