Arts Club: Ring of Fire

Last night I attended the opening night performance of “Ring of Fire” – a compelling storytelling through song about the legendary Johnny Cash, including his family and wife; the amazing June Carter Cash.

Patrick Metzger, Devon Busswood, Frankie Cottrell, Tainui Kuru, and Caitriona Murphy in Ring of Fire, 2024; set design by Patrick Rizzotti; costume design by Jessica Oostergo; lighting design by Robert Sondergaard; photo by Moonrider Productions for the Arts Club Theatre Company

Luckily my friend Lynda and I made it to the Arts Club Theatre at Granville Island only minutes before the start, after mistakenly first going to the Stanley Alliance Theatre on South Granville.  I wondered why the marquee said “Guys and Dolls.”  Anyway; note to self: always double check the ticket info beforehand duh.

In a nutshell the show was nothing short of INCREDIBLE.  The performers were top-notch with their singing and musical instrument capabilities, that it could’ve easily been a Broadway Musical.  I mean; they were truly mind-blowing.

Frankie Cottrell (as Johnny Cash) in Ring of Fire, 2024; set design by Patrick Rizzotti; costume design by Jessica Oostergo; lighting design by Robert Sondergaard; photo by Moonrider Productions for the Arts Club Theatre Company

I’m personally not a huge country music fan, however I always admired Johnny Cash.  His charisma and deep, resonant voice had a distinctive style blending country, rockabilly, blues, and gospel.

He often sang about the struggles of the common man, themes of redemption, faith, and justice. Cash’s music captured the essence of the human experience, reflecting both personal introspection and societal commentary.

Cast of Ring of Fire, 2024; set design by Patrick Rizzotti; costume design by Jessica Oostergo; lighting design by Robert Sondergaard; photo by Moonrider Productions for the Arts Club Theatre Company

Beyond his music, he was recognized for his authenticity and enduring influence on generations of musicians and fans alike.

Devon Busswood (as June Carter Cash) in Ring of Fire, 2024; set design by Patrick Rizzotti; costume design by Jessica Oostergo; lighting design by Robert Sondergaard; photo by Moonrider Productions for the Arts Club Theatre Company

I highly recommend seeing this show if you’re in Vancouver – even if you’re not a huge country music fan.

For Tickets:

Leave a comment