Review – The Ballad of Johnny and June – Theatre Royal Brighton and National Tour

There’s something instantly comforting about The Ballad of Johnny and June. From the moment it begins, you get the sense that you’re in safe hands—this is a show that knows exactly what it wants to be, and delivers it with charm, warmth, and a big heart.

At its core, this is a story that many people will already have some familiarity with, but what makes this production stand out is how easy and enjoyable it feels to watch. It doesn’t rush, and it doesn’t try too hard to impress. Instead, it lets the story unfold naturally, giving the characters space to breathe and the audience time to really connect with them. The result is something that feels personal rather than overproduced.

Christopher Ryan Grant, as Johnny Cash, and Christina Bianco, as June Carter Cash, are a huge part of why the show works so well. Both actors bring a relaxed confidence to their roles, capturing the spirit of Johnny and June in a way that feels genuine rather than forced. More importantly, they have a natural chemistry that makes their relationship believable from start to finish. It’s easy to find yourself rooting for them without even thinking about it, which is always a good sign.

Ryan O’Donnell brings a quietly compelling presence to the show as John Carter Cash, guiding the audience through the story with warmth and ease. His narration feels natural and unforced, adding a thoughtful layer that helps tie the production together without ever stealing focus. There’s a calm confidence in his delivery that makes the storytelling feel personal, as though he’s sharing memories rather than simply recounting events. It’s a subtle but important role, and O’Donnell handles it with a gentle charm that enhances the show’s overall sincerity.

Musically, the show is a real treat. As well as the on-stage actor/musicians, the live six-piece band adds a lovely richness to the sound, and there’s an energy to the performances that keeps things lively throughout. The songs, including “I Walk the Line”, “Ring of Fire”, “Hey Porter”, “Jackson” and “I’ve Been Everywhere” are woven into the story in a way that feels smooth and unforced, so nothing ever feels like it’s there just for the sake of it. Even if you’re not deeply familiar with the music, it’s easy to get swept up in it.

What’s especially nice is how balanced everything feels. There are plenty of uplifting moments, but the show also knows when to slow down and let quieter scenes have their impact. Those softer moments never drag—in fact, they often end up being the most memorable, giving the story a bit more depth without making it feel heavy.

The staging and design follow that same approach. Everything looks great, but nothing is over the top. The set moves easily between different locations, and the lighting does a lot of subtle work in shaping the mood without drawing attention to itself. Another thing that stands out is how sincere the whole production feels. There’s a genuine affection for the story and the people at its centre, and that really comes across. It never feels like it’s trying to manipulate the audience into feeling something—instead, it simply invites you in and lets the story do the work.

By the time it reaches its final moments, there’s a real sense that you’ve been on a journey with these characters. It’s satisfying without being overly neat, and emotional without ever becoming overwhelming. You leave the theatre feeling uplifted, which is no small achievement.

All in all, The Ballad of Johnny and June is a really enjoyable production. It’s warm and engaging with characters that draw you in, and music that keeps you hooked. Whether you’re a longtime Johnny Cash fan or coming to his music fresh, this is the kind of show that’s very easy to like — and one that I would heartily recommend.

*****    Five Stars