Ring of Fire at the Engeman: A tribute fueled by talent and heart

On these frigid winter nights in Northport Village, when icy roads and below-freezing temperatures keep most people moving quickly from their cars to the comfort of their homes, the John W. Engeman Theater offers something different: warmth, light and, for the next four weeks, the unmistakable sound and spirit of Johnny Cash.

The Engeman’s latest production, Ring of Fire, is a high-energy, musician-driven tribute that tells the story of Cash’s life, struggles and influence through more than two dozen of his songs. The result is an emotionally textured production that feels both intimate and expansive. 

Directed and choreographed by Paul Stancato, Ring of Fire showcases five actor-musicians whose collective talents drive the production from the opening notes to the final blackout. What immediately sets this show apart is that the cast does far more than sing; throughout the performance, the actors rotate seamlessly among instruments – guitars, piano, drums, fiddle and upright bass – grabbing them directly from the set, where they hang on cabin-style walls or rest within arm’s reach. The effect is fluid and organic, creating a stripped-down setting that is appealingly pure. 

The large upright bass travels across the stage between performers, while an onstage piano anchors stage right; worn shawls rest on the wood until scooped up and wrapped around an actor’s shoulders. Cat Patterson’s electric violin adds a striking layer of sound and energy to several numbers. The musicianship alone is reason enough to see the production: It’s rare to witness this level of versatility and vocal strength in a single cast.

The scenic design by Kyle Dixon places the audience inside what feels like a rustic cabin, with barn wood and layered textures adding to the ambiance. Within the space, lighting designer John Burkland shapes the mood. Several pivotal moments end in sudden darkness, allowing the emotional weight to settle before the next scene begins. The lighting works hand-in-hand with the music, guiding the audience through tonal shifts that range from playful to solemn to haunting.

Ring of Fire does not follow a conventional storyline, instead tracing the highs and lows of Cash’s life. Moments from his childhood appear in simple but powerful staging, including a scene recalling the death of his brother, represented by a lone wooden chair serving as the coffin. The production also explores Cash’s battles with addiction, his creative drive and his enduring partnership with June Carter, portrayed by Allison Ann Kelly. 

Kelly’s performance captures Carter’s charisma and vulnerability, and her chemistry with the cast energizes every scene she enters. Her playful yodeling and even a moment atop the upright bass add a fun genuineness to the performance.

The show draws from across Cash’s many well-known songs, incudling “I Walk the Line,” “Folsom Prison Blues” and “Ring of Fire.” His exploration of genres, including country, rock and roll, folk, and gospel, shines through.

Even audience members who are not familiar with Cash’s music will find much to appreciate. Rather than attempting to replicate him exactly, the cast channels the emotional truth behind his songs. The production honors both the cultural icon and the flawed human being, and in doing so captures why his music continues to inspire today. 

Ring of Fire continues at the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport Village until March 1. Performances run Wednesdays at 7pm, Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, visiting engemantheater.com or stopping at the box office.