By Afshin Razi on May 29, 2025
Million Dollar Quartet is a jukebox musical that delivers a nostalgic blast from the past, full of toe-tapping music and feel-good vibes.
By Afshin Razi
The Cincinnati Landmark Productions’ staging of Million Dollar Quartet at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater captures the spirit and essence of four music legends who helped shape rock ’n’ roll, delivering electrifying performances, authentic energy, and undeniable charm.
What’s Million Dollar Quartet All About?
Set on a legendary night in December 1956, Million Dollar Quartet spins the real-life story of the evening when Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley all wound up at Sun Records. What followed was an unplanned jam session that turned into rock ’n’ roll legend.
The show, originally produced in 2007, with book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, captures the tension, camaraderie, and chaos of that moment. It is equal parts funny and heartfelt and includes a lineup of hits that still pack a punch. Expect gospel, country, R&B, and rock classics such as “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Hound Dog,” and more. It’s a tight, high-energy tribute to four icons and the studio that caught lightning in a bottle—just once.
A Cast That Delivers
The minimal set and focused lighting design help create an immersive experience. It makes it feel less like a staged musical and more like an actual jam session. With room to move and play, the performers aren’t just acting, they’re connecting with the audience, drawing everyone into the energy of that legendary night. So count the AUDIENCE as another character in the musical.
The cast is top-notch, with Hunter Henrickson as Director and Music Director. Mike Comstock’s portrayal of Sam Phillips, the enterprising owner of Sun Records, captures the drive and vision that sparked a music revolution. His performance anchors the show with clarity and presence.
Keaton Eckhoff as Carl Perkins stands out with a commanding stage presence and an expressive voice. He conveys the edge and urgency of a rock pioneer determined not to be forgotten. Evan Rogers as Jerry Lee Lewis is a great ball of energy. His frenetic movements and mischievous grin fuel some of the evening’s most electrifying moments. Corey Meyer as Elvis Presley and Kyle Taylor as Johnny Cash don’t settle for mere impressions but bring authenticity to their roles. Meyer channels Presley’s effortless cool in every move and Taylor embodies Cash’s steady, grounded demeanor. The result is a set of performances that feel lived-in and confident.
Amanda Sant brings warmth and presence as Dyanne, the show’s sole female voice. Rhys Boatwright (Fluke, on drums) and Jan Diehl (Jay Perkins, on bass) round out the ensemble with rock-solid musicianship. They may be stationed at the back, but their contributions are front and center when it comes to keeping the heartbeat of the night steady and strong.
Final Take
If you’re looking for a show that leans into pure musical fun without overcomplicating things, Million Dollar Quartet hits the mark. It’s an entertaining, high-energy night that blends classic hits with just enough story to keep it moving. Whether you’re a die-hard rock ’n’ roll fan or just in the mood for a good time, this production delivers.
Tickets to Million Dollar Quartet
Million Dollar Quartet runs May 28 – June 22, 2025 at Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre, in East Price Hill. Tickets are on sale through the box office, 513-241-6550, or online at https://www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com/
