By Published On: August 13, 2026

The music, heart and unmistakable storytelling of Johnny Cash will take center stage when Ring of Fire opens Aug. 27 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre.

Featuring more than two dozen songs associated with the legendary Man in Black, the musical takes audiences on a journey through Cash’s remarkable career. Rather than impersonating the singer, a multitalented ensemble celebrates the stories, struggles and sounds that made him one of the most influential figures in American music.

Audiences will hear enduring favorites such as “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Folsom Prison Blues” and the show’s fiery title song. Together, the music creates a portrait of Cash’s life while exploring themes of love, faith, hardship, humor and redemption.

The production introduces six performers to the Beef & Boards stage, including Indiana University and Lawrence Central High School graduate Devin McDuffy. He is joined by New Jersey native Luke Darnell, Iowa native Tyler Breeding, Northern California native Alex Crossland, Mississippi native Mary Catherine Fehernbacher and Sarah Colt, who was born in Milwaukee and raised in Los Angeles.

Several familiar Beef & Boards performers round out the ensemble. Sarah Hund returns for her 33rd production at the theatre and also serves as assistant director. Matt Smolko, previously seen in Waitress and Heartbreak Hotel, joins Danville, Indiana, native J Vance, whose Beef & Boards credits include Cinderella and Heartbreak Hotel.

The production is directed by Jeff Stockberger, with choreography by Sally Mitchell and musical direction by Kristy Templet.

Cash’s influence stretches far beyond country music. With his deep, commanding voice and candid approach to subjects including hardship, faith and second chances, he connected with listeners across generations and musical genres. Ring of Fire channels that enduring appeal into a theatrical experience filled with live music and the raw emotional honesty that defined his career.

As with other Beef & Boards productions, the evening pairs live theatre with dinner. Admission includes the theatre’s freshly prepared buffet, featuring its signature slow-roasted roast beef, along with coffee, tea or lemonade. Gourmet desserts and beverages from the bar are available for an additional charge.

Ring of Fire runs for 48 performances through Oct. 4 and is rated PG. Tickets range from $59.50 to $87.50, with additional fees applying to private tables and mezzanine seating.

Tickets should be purchased directly through Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre or by calling the box office at 317-872-9664. Patrons are advised that tickets obtained through third-party sellers may not be valid and could include additional fees.

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1,000 Ticket Giveaway

1,000 Ticket Giveaway

The first 500 to sign up will receive 2 FREE tickets to a participating arts organization performance and qualify for a chance to win a $250 Cunningham Restaurant Group Gift Card.

The first 500 to sign up will receive 2 FREE tickets to a participating arts organization performance and qualify for a chance to win a $250 Cunningham Restaurant Group Gift Card.

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