The Engeman Theater’s ‘Ring of Fire’ brightens up the winter season

By Rita J. Egan - TBR Newsmedia

Whether lovers of country music or musicals, Ring of Fire, currently playing at the John W. Engeman Theater at Northport, will have audience members falling in love with the music of Johnny Cash all over again or appreciating it for the first time. 

The production, which opened at the Northport theater on Jan. 15, was created by Richard Maltby, Jr. and conceived by William Meade. It opened on Broadway at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on March 12, 2006, for a limited run and was later adapted for regional theaters. The musical takes audiences on a journey from Cash’s early days in Arkansas to his rise to stardom as a recording artist, featuring hits such as “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk the Line,” “Man in Black” and “Ring of Fire.”

Telling Cash’s story is an immense undertaking, as the prolific singer lived a complex life that was heavily influenced by his religion, family and sorrows that included his family enduring the Great Depression during his childhood, the loss of his brother as a young teenager, and Cash’s struggles with alcohol and substance abuse. 

It’s only appropriate that a musical based on his life include his best-selling tunes and lesser-known titles, as well as the people and events that had a strong impact on his life. To stage a production such as this takes keen precision, and director and choreographer Paul Stancato has done just that. It’s apparent he gets the intricacies when one reads his Director’s Note in the Ring of Fire playbill. Stancato writes, “This production is not a biography, nor is it a traditional musical narrative. It is a gathering of voices, memories and songs that trace the spirit of Johnny Cash rather than the facts of his life.”

And, this production has spirit.

Actor-musicians Matt Cusack (older Johnny Cash and others), Armando Gutierrez (Papa Cash, Dwayne Goodin and others), Allison Ann Kelly (Jack, Young June Carter Cash and others), Mark Mazzarella (Young Johnny Cash and others) and Cat Patterson (Mama Cash, older June and others) interact and harmonize beautifully together. The performers are impressive as they play various instruments while singing and acting exceptionally.

While Cusack plays Cash when he’s older and Mazzarella when he’s younger, all of the actors have the opportunity to perform the icon’s songs. Cusack’s voice has the relatable sound of a classic country singer, and he’s engaging as the narrator. During “Man in Black,” he delivers a commanding performance. Mazzarella’s vocals are also strong, and he captures Cash’s mannerisms so well that it elevates his solos. All three male performers are captivating during “Folsom Blues,” both vocally and in movement, as they portray prisoners.

The musical’s Grand Ole Opry scene is a treat as the actors embrace the show’s nostalgia so well that it makes one feel as if they’ve gone back in time. During this scene, Gutierrez is endearing as a country singer named Dwayne singing Cash’s “Dirty Old Egg Sucking Dog.” Later in the musical, he also provides some lighthearted moments with a fun version of “A Boy Named Sue,” where he engages with the audience. The two songs are examples of Cash’s sense of humor, and round out the classic country hits, as well as rock ‘n roll, blues and gospel songs, for which he is remembered for more than 20 years after his passing.

Patterson and Kelly have angelic voices. Patterson captivates by singing “I Still Miss Someone” in the first act. Both shine when they play June Carter Cash, Johnny’s second wife. In a Grand Ole Opry scene, Kelly takes center stage as she channels June’s spirit. Later in the production, Patterson, as an older June, delivers a beautiful “Waiting on the Far-Side Banks of Jordan,” joined flawlessly by Kelly toward the end of the number.

Enhancing the performances is the breathtaking stage created by scenic designer Kyle Dixon. It seamlessly transitions from Cash’s boyhood home to various sets. In addition, costume designer Dustin Cross has done an excellent job choosing costumes that evoke the depicted eras and reflect country music fashion.

The theater, with its themed drinks inspired by Cash’s songs, such as the rye-based “Folsom Prison Blues” and the mocktail “A Boy Named Sue,” and its stylish decor, promises an unforgettable night out on the town. 

On press night, Saturday, Jan. 17, it was apparent that the venue accomplished just that as theatergoers enjoyed a special evening, clapping along to some of Cash’s most popular tunes and laughing at scenes that offered comic relief. The cast and crew of Ring of Fire have created a dynamic show that takes audience members on a musical journey while at the same time inspiring attendees with the obstacles Cash overcame.

The John W. Engeman Theater, located at 250 Main Street, Northport, presents Ring of Fire through March 1. Run time is approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission. Performance schedule is: Wednesdays and Sundays at 7 p.m., Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and 2 p.m. shows on weekend days. Tickets start at $86. For more information or to order, visit engemantheater.com or call 631-261-2900.

For a sneak peak, click here.