THEATER REVIEW: Ring of Fire

Wow! The big surprise this season at Millbrook Playhouse is RING OF FIRE, an ensemble cast celebrating the music of Johnny Cash. Not being a fan of Johnny Cash’s music, I almost passed on this show. I should know never to underestimate the talents at Millbrook.

First of all the pure energy and personalities of the cast had the audience in the spirit before the show got started. The actors were interacting with the audience even before the house lights went down. The enthusiasm never let up, thanks to five great voices, one piano player and one drummer.

It is impossible to single out any one person, but naturally, I do have opinions on each.  

Morissa Trunzo was the sole woman on stage and she more than held her own against four strong male voices. Melissa is deceptively small and the way she moves around the stage has to be proof that this is one fit lady. Her voice is crystal and her range unbelievable.

A large part of the stage work fell to Patrick Henkel. Patrick’s voice probably came closest to Cash’s sound. He was able to hit some of those low notes with the same intensity as the original. He was also very proficient with both acoustic and electric guitar. This young man has a very promising future in music.

The other three “Johnnys”, Steven Makropoulos, Nick Orfanella, and Zack Zaromatidis (his “Man in Black” was exceptionally effective) were equally fantastic. Each had a chance to show his individual talent. I loved the close harmony on “Daddy Sang Bass”, the drama of “ Delia’s Gone” and the charm of “If I Were a Carpenter”.

Director Anthony D’Amato and music director Justin Adams deserve credit for keeping the old barn rocking to country music. This is the type of show that could become very static, but thanks to these two, the fun never stopped. It probably was not planned, but opening night the winner of the 50/50 drawing was named Sue. What a perfect lead in to “A Boy Named Sue” The cast had great fun with that.

RING OF FIRE is the last show on the Main Stage and closes August 2. This is a popular production, so if you want to find a seat, I would suggest that you not wait too long. My Vaudeville Man opens July 31 and runs until August 9 in the Cabaret. The Cabaret is a fun place to be. Bring your own food and drinks while watching an entertaining show...what more could you want?

The box office number is 570 748 8083 or go to www.millbrookplayhouse.org for tickets.