Folsom Prison Experience Coming To Joliet's Rialto

JOLIET, IL — The Folsom Prison Experience will be at Rialto Square Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, January 20. Tickets go on sale Friday, August 11 at 10 a.m. and the cost will be $62, $52 and $42.

Additional fees may apply when going through Ticketmaster.

According to Friday's Rialto press release:

"Step Back in Time with Folsom Prison Experience: An Electrifying Johnny Cash Tribute Show 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.

"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.

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.

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."

Folsom Prison Experience boasts an exceptional cast, with Jay Ernest channeling the spirit of Johnny Cash, 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 Kat Perkins as June Carter, Dan Hopman as The Warden, Ryan Maddux as Emcee Hugh Cherry, and Bronson Bergson as Glen Shirley/Carl Perkins, along with a dozen more actors portraying prison guards and the Statler Brothers.