A Boy Named Cash
October 20, 2022
This summer, fall in love with Johnny Cash and his music all over again with FST’s Summer Mainstage production of Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash. In this powerful musical, the story of Johnny Cash’s life—including his successes, challenges, triumphs, and missteps—is told through his music. Featuring such classics as “Folsom Prison Blues” and “I Walk the Line,” Ring of Fire brings audiences on a rousing adventure of love, faith, and struggle—told with the strength, honesty, and humor that made Cash a music legend.
“I’m blown away by Johnny as an individual and as an artist,” said Ben Hope, who is directing FST’s production of Ring of Fire. “I’m inspired by his ability to stay true to himself and remain authentic both on and offstage.”
Ring of Fire covers the highlights of Cash’s life—from his humble beginnings singing while picking cotton on his family’s farm to topping The Beatles on the radio charts.
“Cash’s storytelling was deep, honest, and real,” said Richard Hopkins, FST’s Producing Artistic Director. “He had this unique willingness to feel deeply and openness to share these feelings with others. That’s one of the many reasons why his work continues to resonate with us to this day.”
FST’s production will feature a cast of five performers playing their own instruments, highlighting the intimacy of the musical’s storytelling and the emotional power in Cash’s music.
“This production makes the audience feel like they’re on the porch with the Cash family, hearing Johnny himself recount his life experiences,” said Hope.
Elizabeth Nestlerode, who played “Girl” in FST’s 2018 Mainstage production of Once, will play June, the love of Cash’s life. Audiences may also remember Ring of Fire Music Director and cast member Eric Scott Anthony from his appearances in Yesterday (2016), Urban Cowboys (2013), and Kings of Country (2015). Anthony was also part of the 2006 Broadway production of Ring of Fire.
“The growth of Ring of Fire on and since Broadway has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” said Anthony.
Scott Moreau, who has played Johnny Cash in various shows for over 15 years, will portray the music legend in FST’s production.
“The most astounding and special thing about this production of Ring of Fire is the incredible ensemble cast and the amazing vision of the creative team,” said Moreau. “Cash’s music is the thread that binds an awful lot of people together. And we can’t wait to bring the FST audience into that musical family.”