Ring of Fire

By Amy Somensky Jul 31, 2005, 19:15 GMT

The musical conceived by William Meade will feature six actors, eight musicians bringing to life the stories in Cash's songs. Country music star Lari White will play "middle woman" in the cast.

The show features 38 of Cash's songs including "Country Boy," "A Thing Called Love," "Five Feet High and Rising," "Daddy Sang Bass," "Ring of Fire," "I Walk the Line," "I've Been Everywhere," "The Man in Black," and "Hurt."

The creative team includes choreography by Lisa Shriver, Neil Patel as scenic designer, Ken Billington as lighting designer, and David Woolard as costume designer.

"Taken together, Johnny Cash's songs seem to tell an almost mythic story of America," Maltby said in a statement. "That's what we're attempting to put on stage. I think the humanity, the humor, the sexiness, the emotional depth will be a revelation to most theatre audiences. I am very proud and excited to bring this truly unique world premiere production to Studio Arena Theatre's audiences."

Jim Freydberg, who is co-producing the show for Broadway, said in a statement, "I am excited that we licensed this production to Studio Arena Theatre. "The quality of work being done at this theatre is impressive and it is a great opportunity for us to have a Buffalo premiere of the same show that will be going on to Broadway."