The Ballad of Johnny and June

The Ballad of Johnny and June runs at the Mayflower Theatre from 8 to 12 September 2026, a new musical that looks at the lives and music of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash. It's directed by Des McAnuff, who did Jersey Boys, and the story is told through the eyes of their son, John Carter Cash. The songs are the ones you'll know: I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Jackson, A Boy Named Sue and Hurt.

Christopher Ryan Grant, from Million Dollar Quartet, takes on Johnny, with Christina Bianco — who you might recognise from Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and The Wizard of Oz — as June. They're backed by a full company and a live band, so the music is played on stage rather than tracked in. It runs about two and a half hours with an interval.

There are a few things to keep in mind before you book. It's recommended for ages 12 and up, and children under two aren't admitted. The show deals with drug and alcohol abuse, and there's a rifle on stage — it's never fired, but it's there. There's also strong language throughout. It's a family-friendly show for older kids and a good shout if you're into country music.

Tickets start at £29.50 and are on sale at mayflower.org.uk. If you're a member, there are discounts: Executive Membership gets you 20% off up to two tickets on Tuesday 8 September and £6 off from the 9th to the 12th, with further reductions for Executive Plus and Access Members. Group bookings for 10 or more also get a discount. For schools and youth groups, tickets are £19.50 from Tuesday to Thursday, with one supervisor free for every twenty.