I’ve been fortunate enough to see hundreds of productions at Belfast’s Grand Opera House over the years, and people often ask me what my favourite show has been. Usually, I can’t answer because there have been so many incredible performances.
But tonight, for the first time in a long time, I can answer with confidence…
The Ballad of Johnny & June.
This brand-new musical tells the remarkable true story of Johnny Cash and June Carter – two voices that changed country music forever. More than that, it’s a story about love, loyalty, resilience and finding the person who stands beside you through life’s greatest highs and darkest lows.
Having seen Walk the Line, I had a good idea of what to expect. The musical doesn’t dwell on every painful chapter of Johnny’s addictions or the breakdown of previous relationships. Instead, it focuses on the heart of their story and the extraordinary bond that carried them through decades of fame, temptation and personal struggles. After all, it’s a musical, not a documentary.
And I loved every second of it.
One of the production’s most interesting choices is having the story narrated by Johnny and June’s only son, John Carter Cash. Ryan O’Donnell delivers an engaging performance, guiding the audience through the memories with warmth, humour and sincerity while holding the story together beautifully.
But make no mistake, this is Johnny Cash’s show.
Christopher Ryan Grant is simply phenomenal.
From the moment he steps onto the stage, he captures the unmistakable presence of the Man in Black. His deep vocals, commanding stage presence and effortless mannerisms never feel like an imitation—they feel like a genuine performance inspired by one of music’s greatest legends. It’s an outstanding portrayal that anchors the entire production.
Alongside him, Christina Bianco is equally exceptional as June Carter. She brings warmth, humour, confidence and incredible vocal talent to the role, perfectly capturing the woman who wasn’t just Johnny Cash’s wife, but an extraordinary performer in her own right. The chemistry between Grant and Bianco is completely believable, making you invest in their relationship from beginning to end.
The music, unsurprisingly, is sensational.
With timeless classics including I Walk the Line, Ring of Fire, Jackson, A Boy Named Sue and Hurt, the songs are woven naturally into the storytelling rather than feeling like a greatest hits concert. Supported by a fantastic live band, every performance feels authentic, and by the end of the evening the Grand Opera House audience was singing, clapping and completely immersed in the experience.
Directed by Des McAnuff, the creative force behind Jersey Boys, the production moves effortlessly between humour, romance, heartbreak and celebration. The staging is effective without ever overshadowing the performances, allowing the story and music to remain the true stars of the evening.
What impressed me most wasn’t just the music or the performances—it was how emotionally invested I became in Johnny and June’s journey. This isn’t simply a musical about two country legends; it’s about two people who found each other despite life’s many obstacles and refused to let go.
The Ballad of Johnny & June isn’t just about country music or two legendary performers. At its heart, it’s a reminder that life is short, time with the people we love is precious, and the greatest legacy we leave behind isn’t fame or fortune—it’s the people we shared our journey with. If you leave the Grand Opera House humming a Johnny Cash classic while holding your loved ones a little closer, then this remarkable musical has done exactly what great theatre should.
For me, The Ballad of Johnny & June is one of the finest productions I’ve seen at the Grand Opera House in recent years and, without question, my favourite show of 2026 so far.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
The Ballad of Johnny &June continues at Belfast’s Grand Opera House until Saturday 8 August. Whether you’re a lifelong Johnny Cash fan or simply appreciate great storytelling, outstanding live music and performances that stay with you long after the curtain falls, this is one show you won’t want to miss.
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