The Ballad of Johnny & June

The Theatre Royal Brighton is set to host a new production this spring, with The Ballad of Johnny & June arriving for a short run from Tuesday 14th to Saturday 18th April 2026. This musical arrives in the UK as part of a six-month tour following its time in the United States and Canada. It focuses on the thirty-five-year relationship between Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, but it takes a slightly different approach to the usual tribute show. The story is told from the perspective of their son, John Carter Cash, who acts as the narrator to guide the audience through the more personal aspects of his parents' lives.

The script, co-written by Des McAnuff and Robert Cary, aims to move away from a polished 'fairytale' version of the couple's history. Instead, it looks at the complexities and the reality of their time together, covering both the highs and the more difficult periods. Because of this, the show is recommended for those aged 12 and up, as it includes depictions of substance abuse and some strong language. The production is directed by Des McAnuff, a two-time Tony Award winner, and features Christopher Ryan Grant as Johnny and Christina Bianco as June. Ryan O’Donnell joins them on stage to portray John Carter Cash.

Musically, the show incorporates many of the songs that defined their careers. You can expect to hear staples like I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Jackson, Hey Porter, and Wildwood Flower woven into the narrative. For those looking at timings, the evening performances are scheduled for 19:30 each night from Tuesday to Saturday. If you prefer a daytime visit, there are matinees at 14:30 on the Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday of that week. Tickets for the Brighton dates start at £15, and they are available through the official tour website or the venue. It’s a straightforward way to see a bit of country music history handled with a bit more depth than a standard tribute act.