A Rebellious Romance: CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL Arrives in London

If you’re on the hunt for a high-energy, toe-tapping musical that marries teen rebellion with a love story destined to upset the status quo, look no further than CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL. Opening next month at the Arcola Theatre, this Tony-nominated show promises a wild blend of rockabilly tunes, eccentric characters, and a 1950s setting bursting with colour and fun. Whether you’re already a devoted fan of the original John Waters film or new to the story, this production is sure to shake things up in the heart of East London.

A Trip Back To 1954 Baltimore

Set in 1954, CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL takes us straight to a Baltimore divided between the conservative ‘Squares’ and the rebellious ‘Drapes’. The story follows Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker (played by Adam Davidson), a leather-jacketed outsider who thrives on bending the rules and stirring up controversy. He catches the eye of Allison (portrayed by Lulu-Mae Pears), a perfectly prim and proper society girl determined to break out of her sheltered world.

It doesn’t take long for sparks to fly between these two opposites, and the tension they create sends the entire city spinning into chaos. Rival gangs face off, families squabble, and social boundaries are pushed to breaking point—all set to rockabilly music that makes it near impossible to keep your feet still. Expect comedic antics, heartfelt ballads, and a whole lot of onstage energy in this salute to teenage disobedience.

From Screen Sensation To Stage Favourite

Many people know Cry-Baby as the 1990 film featuring Johnny Depp, directed by the legendary John Waters. The movie quickly gained a cult following thanks to its mix of retro aesthetic, cheeky humour, and catchy music. Fast-forward to 2008, and Cry-Baby made its way to Broadway, reimagined as a full-scale musical with a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, plus toe-tapping songs composed by David Javerbaum and Adam Schlesinger. The resulting musical captured the spirit of Waters’ original film while introducing new comedic twists, vibrant choreography, and a fresh selection of rockabilly-inspired tunes.

The show’s Broadway run earned it a Tony Award nomination, solidifying its place among beloved stage musicals. Now, the Arcola Theatre is bringing this show to London, inviting audiences to once again fall in love with Cry-Baby, Allison, and the colourful cast of characters who are anything but ordinary.

The Cast And Creative Team

The Arcola Theatre’s production of CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL boasts the largest cast in the theatre’s history, with a 17-strong ensemble ready to burst onto the stage. Besides Adam Davidson as Cry-Baby and Lulu-Mae Pears as Allison, the cast includes Elliot Allinson in the role of Baldwin Blandish, and Jazzy Phoenix as Pepper Walker—both sure to add layers of humour and conflict.

You’ll also see Eleanor Walsh playing the delightfully obsessive Lenora Frigid, Chad Saint Louis as the charismatic Dupree W Dupree, Kingsley Morton as the unpredictable Mona Malnorowski, and India Chadwick as the spirited Wanda Woodward. Rounding out the main roles are Shirley Jameson as Mrs Cordelia Vernon-Williams and Paul Kemble taking on Judge and Father O’Neill.

The rest of the ensemble features JR Ballantyne, Laura Buhagiar, Omer Cem Coltu, Ellie-Grace Cousins, Joe Grundy, Ryan Heenan, and Michael Kholwadia, each bringing a unique spark to this visually and vocally dynamic production.

Steering the show is the Arcola Theatre’s own Artistic Director, Mehmet Ergen. Supporting him is an accomplished creative team, including Robert Innes Hopkins as designer, Chris Whittaker as choreographer, Ashton Moore as musical director, David Howe as lighting designer, Matthew Giles as sound designer, Defne Ozdogon as associate designer, and Jane Deitch as casting director.

Songs That Rock The Stage

One of the real draws of CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL is its nostalgic, rockabilly-infused score. The tunes harken back to a bygone era, mingling sweet harmonies with energetic beats that capture the essence of 1950s teenage culture. Expect to be singing along to songs like The Anti-Polio Picnic, Screw Loose, and Girl, Can I Kiss You with Tongue. Though tongue-in-cheek, these titles give you a good indication of the show’s playful spirit.

This musical doesn’t hold back in delivering comedic numbers that combine slapstick, satire, and romance in one rollicking package. The Arcola’s intimate space is the perfect setting for these high-octane tunes, allowing the audience to really experience the music up close. Whether it’s a lively dance break or a heartfelt duet, there’s little doubt the cast will deliver each number with electrifying energy.

A show set in the 1950s might not seem immediately relevant in today’s world, but CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL has an enduring appeal that resonates with modern audiences. At its core, it’s a story about breaking free from societal constraints, challenging rigid norms, and championing acceptance for those labelled as outcasts.

In an era where conversations about inclusivity and self-expression are more important than ever, Cry-Baby’s struggle to be himself in a world that wants him to conform still strikes a chord. Pair this timely message with comedic over-the-top characters and the nostalgic flair for rock-and-roll, and you’ve got a timeless recipe for entertainment. It’s this unique blend of social commentary and vibrant musical theatre that gives the show lasting power.

The Biggest Production In Arcola’s History

One of the most exciting features of this upcoming show is its sheer scale. With 17 cast members, CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL marks the largest ensemble the Arcola has ever assembled. The theatre, located in the heart of Dalston, East London, has long been known for its bold programming choices and commitment to new and challenging works. Bringing together such a substantial cast is a statement of artistic ambition, especially in a venue that prides itself on creating immersive, boundary-pushing experiences within an intimate setting.

A larger cast brings a richer sound during chorus numbers, a greater variety of characters, and an overall sense that the world of the musical is bustling with life. It’s not just about filling the stage—it’s about creating a fully realised environment where the audience can lose themselves in the madness, mayhem, and music of 1950s Baltimore.

Adding Some Extra Spark

The original film’s cult status stems from John Waters’ gift for combining comedy, satire, and a healthy dose of the absurd. It was edgy and rebellious for its time, and the musical version carries that spirit forward. The creative team at the Arcola is leaning into the show’s comedic roots, ensuring that every twist and turn will offer both humour and heart.

From the outlandish costumes designed to evoke 1950s flamboyance, to the lively choreography inspired by the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL is more than just a standard love story. It’s a celebration of teenage angst, class differences, and finding love in the most unlikely place—right across the social divide. Audience members can expect no shortage of hip-swinging, comedic high jinks, and that glorious feeling of stepping back in time.

Beyond the catchy songs and the comedic flair, CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL also underscores important themes: the power of standing up for who you are, embracing the joy of rebellion, and challenging a world that tries to stifle individuality. It may be set more than half a century ago, but the messages feel decidedly modern—something that will no doubt resonate with audiences of all ages.

Riding Off Into The Sunset

So, if you’re looking for an evening that combines rebellious spirit, rockabilly rhythms, and a touching message about being true to yourself, CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL is well worth your time. With a cast that promises to deliver unforgettable performances, a score that captures the retro vibe of the 1950s, and a creative team committed to bringing new life to a cult classic, this show has all the ingredients for a standout production.

As the curtain falls, you’ll find yourself humming those infectious tunes, pondering the barriers we put between ourselves and others, and possibly feeling a renewed sense of freedom. After all, at the heart of CRY-BABY THE MUSICAL is a simple truth: sometimes the biggest leaps forward happen when you break the rules—and do it with style.