REVIEW: The Ballad of Johnny and June

© Pamela Raith

The life, times and songs of one of Country music’s greatest ever couples comes to the stage in a dramatic new jukebox musical.

The Ballad of Johnny and June is now playing at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham.

Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash are legends of American Country and Western music and their legacy remains fresh and vibrant, and inspirational, despite the passing of decades and despite the passing of both artists from this world within months of each other in 2003.

An exhilarating new theatre show based on the life and times of these two incredible singer-songwriters makes its debut on this side of the Atlantic with a pulsating tour that has already left audiences stunned wherever it's been performed.

All of the major hit records are present and correct as are the key milestones, including the highs and lows, and by the climax of the show everyone was ready to stand up and sway their hips and toes and take part in some line dancing.

The show starts in 1955 and the drama and music are so captivating and full of emotion that the mind is instantly drawn to the music, lyrics and bewitching connection between the bass-baritone vocals of Johnny Cash and the witty lilt of June Carter’s musicality.

Country Music is renowned for songs that touch upon themes such as love, heartache, redemption, grief, sorrow, regret, betrayal, families, broken promises, and faith.

This jukebox musical combines all of the above yet also makes time to include material that is joyous, uplifting, full of light and hope, and is guaranteed to make you smile after a long and hard day at work. 

The level of authenticity in this theatrical experience is so rich and convincing that the show flows like a vibrant Nashville style concert that sucks you into the heart of the music. The passion, energy and thrill of a live concert are so palpable.

The book for this riveting show is by Robert Carey and Des McAnuff and the writers keep the material moving along briskly by keeping the focus on the music. McAnuff also takes on the role of director and he ensures the songs and drama weave together beautifully and harmoniously.

With a show like this, which celebrates the life of two musicians who had such distinctive vocal styles, it needs performers who not only sound like Johnny and June but move and play like the real couple.

Christopher Ryan Grant is perfectly cast  as Johnny Cash and his vocal delivery is rich and sonorous while his guitar playing is so vivid that at times it seems as if the guitar is a literal extension of his physical body. Grant also captures the vulnerable side of Johnny when he deals with his inner demons and ill health. His facial expressions, and shaking hands, reflect the darkness that begins to wrap around his body as he battles drug abuse and the pressure of touring while engaged in a relationship that will test his very soul.

Christina Bianca is another gifted performer who brings impeccable comic timing and a stunning vocal range that does full justice to the songs of June Carter Cash. Bianca belts out the songs with such professionalism that there are moments where the line between acting and performing and real life are blurred.

The role of their son John Carter Cash, who plays the narrator in this show, is taken by Ryan O’Donnell. His acting, and the delightful way he plucks the strings of his guitar, are evidence of a very committed performer. 

Special mention goes to costume designer Sarafina Bush and whig designer Alberto ‘ Albee’ Alvarado who create the styles of the 1950’s with beautiful attention to detail.

The Ballad of Johnny and June is like having a seat at the Grand Ole Opry.

Verdict: ★★★★★

The Ballad of Johnny and June is running at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 25^th April 2026