The Broadway musical “Ring of Fire,” honoring the work of Johnny Cash, will open at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre in Waynesville.

Named after one of Cash’s most popular songs, the production celebrates the storied career of the country star, with an array of musicians and actors showcasing the timeless beauty of the “Man in Black.” 

Ring of Fire does not dramatize Cash himself, but his presence is felt.

“By the end of the show, the audience will feel that they have spent the evening in the presence of an extraordinary and real man. In many ways, Johnny Cash wrote and sang about the lives we lead, regardless of where we lead them,” said the creator of Ring of Fire, Richard Maltby.

HART’s production is being directed by Mark Jones with music direction by Kelli Brown Mullinix. The show features a talented cast of musicians and vocalists, including Mandy Wildman, Matthew Curry (who performed Cash’s music last fall in Haywood’s Got Talent), Ed Mathis, Dominic Aquilino and Clara Burrus. The five member back-up band includes two members from the local group “Sons of Ralph.” 

There will be a special preview performance on Thursday, May 23, as a fundraiser to benefit REACH, with admission being $20 per person.

The musical will run at 7:30 p.m. May 24-25, 31, June 1, 7-8, 14-15 and 3 p.m. June 2, 9, 16. Tickets are $24 for adults, $22 for seniors and $12 ($8 on Sundays) for students/teachers.

828.456.6322 or www.harttheatre.com.