Sin And Salvation – The Story of Johnny Cash comes to the Baxter Studio Theatre on 25 March 2026. Sin and Salvation is written by Musical Director Jonny Blundell and Nigel Vermaas, who directs.
In 2024 Jonny Blundell and three musicians began their explorations of the Johnny Cash story.
Cash, who came from a humble home, with a loving mother but abusive father, transcended not only his background but the country music he was initially known for. Country music was a traditionally conservative milieu but Cash championed many so-called “liberal” causes including the plight of the Native Americans.
In later years the radical music producer Rick Rubin found hidden depths in Johnny Cash, giving the singer the opportunity to explore new territory. However, Cash’s charismatic performances, his compassion and his ability to connect with the common man were often torpedoed by his alcohol and drug abuse. At his side, through thick and thin, was his second wife, June.
Sin and Salvation – The Story of Johnny Cash stars Jamie Jupiter as Cash, Sarah McArthur as June Carter, Daniel Franks as assorted producers, judges and other figures of authority with Jonny Blundell as Rick Rubin. All are accomplished musicians.
- Says director Nigel Vermaas: “They say never ask musicians to act. Well, this show proves them wrong! Aside from their musical skills, all four deliver amazing performances”.
This unusual incarnation of musical theatre (not a tribute show!) has played to enthusiastic audiences in Cape Town and beyond for over a year but now will be seen at its professional best in the Baxter Studio Theatre.
Brian Whitley of the Ralph-Stephon Nussbaum Foundation and a rock music fundi says: “What a super show! Musical theatre as opposed to run-of-the-mill gigs purporting to be tribute shows…..I believe it needs a wider audience to appreciate the quality of it”. SA guitar legend Willem Moller: “Jamie really inhabits these songs. A great show that I’ll recommend to anyone”.
At its core, this is a story of resilience, faith and the redemptive power of music.
WHAT: Sin And Salvation – The Story of Johnny Cash
WHERE: Baxter Studio Theatre, Main Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town 7600
WHEN: 25 to 28 March 2026. Evening performances are at 8.p.m, the Saturday matinee on 28th at 3 p.m
BOOKING: Webtickets online or at Pick n Pay stores. For discounted block bookings, fundraisers and charities, contact Mark Dobson T 021 680 3993 or E mark.dobson@uct.ac.za
INFO: VISIT
PHOTO: L-R Jonny Blundell, Jamie Jupiter, Sarah McArthur, Daniel Franks (Photo Rebecca & Bruce Meissner
