1000 Islands PLayhouse: Ring of Fire – the music of Johnny Cash more spectacle than theatre.

 

Scheduled for a month-long run as a result of popular demand, Ring of Fire is a production which one would naturally expect much from. Indeed, the musical by Richard Maltby Jr. and William Meade, billed as a celebration of the life and work of prolific American musician Johnny Cash, features numerous songs by him. This production at TIP, under the direction of Brett Christopher (also the artistic director of the theatre itself), certainly starts promisingly. The cast of six actors step out onto the impressive, encompassing set and begin Cash’s story with the origins of his family name in Scotland. The relaying of the journey of Cash’s ancestors is done with a lively echo effect as each of the cast take their turns at speaking. The song immediately following, “Country Boy”, is performed equally energetically.

Following these opening numbers, the musical progresses through Cash’s early life and formative experiences to his career as a musician; this narrative is mainly conveyed through the medium of song. The six singer-actors each portray Cash at different moments, along with other characters. All of them are duly talented, with special mentions for the vocal consistency of Donna Garner and the impeccably Southern accented singing by Quinn Dooley. Instrumental music is handled deftly under the direction of Scott Christian, with stellar accompaniment by Geoffrey Bruce and John McKinnon.

Yet while Ring of Fire’s strength in music and performance is undoubtedly qualified, the exact story of Cash’s life is lacking throughout much of the show. Tidbits of his childhood growing up in Arkansas and the tragic death of his older brother Jack at work in the beginning are given ample time; it is his later life and activities as a musician that are presented briefly as interludes between the songs, making the narrative arc that the latter represent difficult to follow. As a viewer, I feel that it would have been beneficial to have more context for the songs as they are performed so as to properly appreciate them (especially for those unfamiliar with Cash’s music).

Indeed, it is the performance of the songs which take center stage in this production, as opposed to any over-arching narrative or fable inherent in Cash’s journey. The medley of songs inspired by prison in the second act (“Going to Memphis”, “Delia’s Gone”, “Orleans Parish Prison” and “Folsom Prison Blues”), for instance, constitute a compelling spectacle onstage in themselves. As with the opening scene featuring the history of the Cash family, the aura created by the group is one that is truly powerful.

The technical aspects of the show are superb and complement the presentation of the songs and action in the production. The cavern-like set by John Dinning is impressive on the design front, with a layered wooden arch and platform containing a complete band set. The ability of the platform to move in and out between an opening wall provides convenience for scene changes. Lighting and sound are also effective in conveying a sense of place for the timeline of the show and thematic atmosphere of different songs.

Though the rendition of songs and musical accompaniment in this production are formidable, the script is one that is short on drama and storytelling. If one prefers an experience akin to a concert, however, there is certainly much to enjoy here.

Ring of Fire continues until September 21 at the Springer Theatre in the 1000 Islands Playhouse in Gananoque, ON. For information and tickets, see http://www.1000islandsplayhouse.com/ring-of-fire/

Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash created by Richard Maltby Jr. and conceived by William Meade

Cast

Ben Camenzuli
Scott Carmichael
Nathan Carroll
Quinn Dooley
Donna Garner
Tringa Rexhepi

Crew

Brett Christopher: Director
Scott Christian: Music Director
Geoffrey Bruce: Musician
John McKinnon: Musician
John Dinning: Set & Costume Designer
Michelle Ramsay: Lighting Designer
Emily Porter: Sound Designer
Rebecca Eamon Campbell: Stage Manager
Jordan Guetter: Assistant Stage Manager