Collaboration with Columbus’ CATCO brings the music of a legend to the Porthouse stage
Porthouse Theatre, 5X’s outdoor, summer theatre located on the grounds of Blossom Music Center, continues its 48th season with “Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash.” The production is presented in collaboration between CATCO and Porthouse Theatre.
Directed by Steven C. Anderson, “Ring of Fire” opens July 8 and runs through July 23. A preview performance will take place on July 7. The music of Johnny Cash comes alive on stage in “Ring of Fire” as a small ensemble weaves a story using some of America’s best-known songs. Created by Richard Maltby, Jr. and conceived by William Meade, “Ring of Fire” is adapted from the Broadway production by Maltby and Jason Edwards. Performances are July 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 at 8 p.m. and July 10 and 17 at 2 p.m.
The production features Kent State Assistant Professor Amy Fritsche*, Brian Mueller, Scott Pauley, Travis Smith and Matthew Smolko.
Costume design is by Marcia Hain, sound design by Kent State alumnus Nathan Rosmarin, music direction by Travis Smith, lighting design by Kent State Associate Professor Jakyung Seo, scenic design by Terry J. Martin and technical direction by Jason Gates. The Equity production stage manager is Kent State alumnus Joshua Brown*.
Single tickets and group tickets can be purchased by phone at 330-672-3884, in person at the Porthouse Box Office or online at . The Porthouse Box Office is located in the Roe Green Center lobby of Kent State’s Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Drive in Kent, and is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Single tickets range in price from $22-40 for adults and $20-34 for students and children. Special rates for groups of 10 or more also are available.
The Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program/organization with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.
For more information about Porthouse Theatre, visit ;
*Member of Actors Equity Association, the union of professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
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Photo Caption:
Porthouse Theatre continues its 48th season with “Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash.” The production is presented in collaboration between CATCO and Porthouse Theatre. (Photo credit: Jerri Shafer)
Media Contacts:
Joni Koneval, jkoneval@kent.edu, 330-672-0116
Emily Vincent, evincen2@kent.edu, 330-672-8595