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MAY 28 – JUL 7, 2024 Mandell Weiss Theatre
Book by Robert Cary and Des McAnuff
Music and Lyrics by Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash and others
Directed by Des McAnuff
Love is a burning thing
Country music royalty Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash remain to this day one of the most famous couples of the 20th Century. Created with the support of the family and told through the eyes of their son John Carter Cash, this new musical covers it all: their childhoods, their 1956 meeting at the Grand Ole Opry, the storied on-stage proposal in 1968, and the soaring highs and whiplash lows of fame, life on the road, addiction, arrests, controversies, marriage, family and devotion.
This is a whole-hearted and clear-eyed telling of one of the most iconic love stories in music history, complete with a soundtrack of beloved hits — I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Hey Porter, Jackson, I’ve Been Everywhere and many more.
Tony Award winner Des McAnuff has exhilarated audiences exploring the tumultuous journeys of legendary musicians in shows like Jersey Boys, The Who’s Tommy, and SUMMER: The Donna Summer Musical. In his long-awaited return to the Playhouse, this world premiere musical is sure to be another smash hit.
“You can go deeper and deeper and you still might never get to the bottom of what makes two people love each other, or stay together. Or come apart.” John Carter Cash, Johnny and June
JUST RELEASED: SOUVENIR TICKETS
Remember your experience at this extraordinary new musical with a limited edition souvenir ticket, featuring printed autographs of the creators Des McAnuff (director and co-writer), Robert Cary (co-writer), and cast members Christopher Ryan Grant (Johnny Cash), Patti Murin (June Carter Cash) and Van Hughes (John Carter Cash). From $15. Find out more.
Discover More
Watch a chat about the shows
Artistic Director Christopher Ashley and Artistic Producing Director Eric Keen-Louie talk about each show and why they are excited to share them with Playhouse audiences.
Ticket Information
Single tickets are now on sale. La Jolla Playhouse is the only authorized ticket seller for this production.
First Look (previews): May 28 – June 2
Weeks 2 – 6: June 4 – July 7
*‘First Look’ performances are the first week of the run of each show prior to opening night (with some exceptions). First Look tickets are lower price and offer the opportunity to experience the show while the creative team are still polishing and making changes. This is a vital element of a show’s evolution, allowing the creative team to step back and see the show through the eyes and experience of the audience. Playhouse staff speak to the audience briefly before the show starts, and the creative team may be seated near you taking notes.
Stage-front bench seats on sale now for $55!
The stage-front benches are right up close to the stage, in front of the first row of theatre seats. These seats are wooden benches with no back, so may not be comfortable for everyone. Perfect for Cash and Carter superfans who want to be tantalizingly close to the action. Limited number available per show.
Content Advisory
This production includes themes of drug and alcohol abuse, a rifle seen on stage but not fired, and some strong language. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.
Ticket discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $29 tickets in Area 3. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call Patron Services at (858) 550-1010 for more info.
Audience Engagement Events
Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.
Talkback Tuesday
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tue, Jun 4 and 11 after the 7:30pm show
Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sun, Jun 23 after the 1pm show
Access Performances
ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat, Jun 15, 2pm
The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.
Sensory Friendly Guide
Read the Sensory Friendly Guide for the Weiss Theatre here
Useful Information
Duration
Approximately 2 hours and 15 mins, including a 15-min intermission
Parking
Parking is FREE for La Jolla Playhouse patrons in the South Parking Structure when a valid parking pass is displayed. Take advantage of the free shuttle to the theatre. Find all parking information here.
Covid-19 Policy
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. For up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 safety procedures, please visit our Covid Safety Page.
Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tue – Sun). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reserve your table on OpenTable or by phone on (858) 638-7778. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
Concessions
Concessions opens 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.
Production Sponsors
Patti Murin as “June Carter Cash” and Christopher Ryan Grant as “Johnny Cash” in La Jolla Playhouse’s world-premiere production of THE BALLAD OF JOHNNY AND JUNE; photo by Rich Soublet II.
Cast & Creators
- Creators
- Cast
- Design
Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash
Music and Lyrics
Gabriella Joy
Vivian
- Robert BrillScenic Designer
- Sarafina BushCostume Designer
- Amanda ZieveLighting Designer
- Peter FitzgeraldSound Designer
- Sean NieuwenhuisProjection Designer
- Alberto "Albee" AlvaradoWig Designer
- Lisa LeMayMusic Director
- Spencer Gualdoni, CSACasting
- Jacole KitchenCasting
- Michael BelloAssociate Director
- Emily FranchAssociate Choreographer
- Dean RemingtonStage Manager
- Vanessa Dodgson-ThomasAssistant Stage Manager
- Marie JahelkaAssistant Stage Manager
- Benjamin SeibertSenior Production Manager
- Ryan MeisheidGeneral Manager
- Eric Keen-LouieArtistic Producing Director
Gallery
Venue Info
Mandell Weiss Theatre
The Mandell Weiss Theatre is a 492-seat proscenium arch theatre, with two front rows of removable seats allowing for a greater stage length. The theatre also maintains an upstairs wooden deck for parties, receptions and outdoor gatherings, and a small outdoor amphitheatre for pre-show entertainment.
