Folsom Prison Experience

The iconic 1968 live recording, “At Folsom Prison,” turned Johnny Cash into a crossover superstar, defying conventions and leaving a lasting legacy. Now, get ready to relive the unforgettable day of January 13, 1968, as Folsom Prison Experience takes the stage – an immersive tribute drama that merges live concert, stage drama, and audience participation to bring you into the heart of Johnny Cash’s legendary musical journey.

Fascinating and Full-Contact Tribute Drama

Folsom Prison Experience brings to life the enthralling behind-the-scenes tales of Cash’s historic concerts at California’s Folsom Prison. You’ll be transported back in time, witnessing the captivating performances of Johnny Cash, June Carter, and the Statler Brothers, as if you were part of that iconic event. Dubbed a “full contact immersive tribute drama,” this musical extravaganza promises to be an experience like no other.

Featuring the Award-Winning Church of Cash

At the heart of the production is Church of Cash, the acclaimed Johnny Cash tribute show, led by the remarkable Jay Ernest as the Man in Black. Co-written by Ernest and his collaborator Tom Pickard, Folsom Prison Experience weaves a rich tapestry of music, drama, and history that will leave audiences spellbound.

Premiere Event – A Not-to-Miss Experience

Get ready for an electrifying journey through history as the Folsom Prison Experience hits the road on a 4-State tour. Catch their captivating performances at prestigious venues like the Pabst Theater in Milwaukee, The Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, the Ames Center in Burnsville, Minnesota, and the Pablo Center in Eau Claire. As an audience member, step into the action by dressing in your best prison inmate attire and reliving the same electric atmosphere that once cheered during Cash’s iconic 1968 concert.

A Personal and Professional Milestone

For Jay Ernest, bringing Folsom Prison Experience to life is both a personal and professional milestone. “I have spent years studying the history and music of Johnny Cash,” Ernest shares, “and it is a great honor to bring that historic day in Folsom Prison to theater enthusiasts and Johnny Cash fans alike.”

An All-Star Cast

Folsom Prison Experience boasts an exceptional cast, with Jay Ernest channeling the spirit of Johnny Cash, Kat Perkins shows us the talented side of June Carter, supported by the talented band members of Church of Cash as Cash’s band. The production is directed by Stephanie Long with Tom Pickard as technical director. The lineup also includes, Dan Hopman as The Warden, Ryan Maddux as Emcee Hugh Cherry, Ryan Nelson as head guard, Zach Norton as the other “head guard” and Bronson Bergson as Glen Shirley/Carl Perkins and the boys from the Hitchville band as the Statler Brothers.

A Labor of Love

Writing Folsom Prison Experience was a two-month labor of love for Ernest and Pickard, drawing from a wealth of historical sources and folklore to craft an inclusive and authentic portrayal of that pivotal day. The incorporation of songs from Cash’s second live-in-a-prison album, “At San Quentin,” adds another layer of depth to this extraordinary stage production.

Folsom Prison Experience – Reliving Johnny Cash’s Legacy

Coupled with the recent Church of Cash album release, “Flowers for June,” Folsom Prison Experience serves as a powerful testament to Johnny Cash’s enduring influence on the collective consciousness. Jay Ernest and Church of Cash stand as proud champions of the Cash legacy, ensuring that his music and legend continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.

Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Journey

For a journey through time and a celebration of the Man in Black, join Folsom Prison Experience and let the spirit of Johnny Cash live on in your heart.