Florida Studio Theatre Announces Second Extension of Ring of Fire

June 17, 2022 – Sarasota

 Due to audience demand, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) announces the second extension of its hit Summer Mainstage production, Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash. Called “Winning” and “Incredibly moving” by The Observer, Ring of Fire features over two dozen of Johnny Cash’s most popular songs, such as “Cry, Cry, Cry,” “I Walk the Line,” “Jackson,” and “Folsom Prison Blues.” Created by Richard Maltby, Jr., conceived by William Meade, and adapted from the Broadway production by Maltby, Jr. and Jason Edwards, Ring of Fire will now run through July 2 in FST’s Gompertz Theatre. Tickets are now on sale at FloridaStudioTheatre.org or 941.366.9000.

“We couldn’t be happier to see our first production of the Summer Season, Ring of Fire, take off like this,” said Rebecca Hopkins, FST’s Managing Director. “This show has really connected with audiences. Watching these five actors bring Johnny Cash’s story to life through his music, all while playing over ten different types of musical instruments, is really a great night at the theatre.”

Audiences are raving about Ring of Fire, saying it is “The best musical I’ve seen,” “Outstanding,” and “Phenomenal.” Critics have also praised the production, writing “It would be hard not to be impressed” (Sarasota Magazine) and dubbing the show “A crowd pleaser” (The Observer).

Ring of Fire utilizes Johnny Cash’s varied songbook to tell the artist’s life story in broad strokes. The rousing musical highlights some of the most significant moments in Cash’s life, from getting a record deal with Sun Records to proposing to June Carter, the love of his life, in front of thousands of people. Although Ring of Fire touches on important events in Cash’s life, the central focus of FST’s production is Cash’s music.

“Johnny Cash’s music is compelling, relatable, and uplifting,” said Eric Scott Anthony, who serves as both a cast member and the production’s Music Director. “People love to see themselves in the imagery of his songs, and Johnny’s lyrics bring everyone in to do just that.”

Joining Anthony onstage are Katie Barton (Woman #2), Scott Moreau (Johnny Cash), Morgan Morse (Man #2), and Elizabeth Nestlerode (June Carter/Woman #1). Ben Hope, who made his Broadway debut in 2012 in the Tony Award-winning musical, Once, is the show’s director and Scenic Designer.

Due to audience demand, FST is extending the run of Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash a second time. This engaging musical will now play in FST’s Gompertz Theatre through July 2, 2022.