Cry-Baby The Musical, Arcola Theatre Review
Cry Baby production image. Photo by Charlie Flint
Written by Danai for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Content Warnings: adult language, loud sounds, sudden noise, mild sexual imagery, references to self harm and mental health
Cry-Baby The Musical is a production that excited me from its very title. As a huge fan of the movie and the tracks featured in it, my anticipation grew stronger as the show’s opening approached. The only question lingering in my mind was whether the musical could live up to the original film. To my surprise, the show not only exceeded my expectations with its incredible blend of talent, music, and dance but also offered a fresh and exciting take on the cult classic. What’s more, it doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the movie—making it accessible to everyone. It’s a production that invites people to dance, have fun, and be utterly amazed by the performers’ talent, physicality, and charm.
Discussing the actors is a challenge, as every single performer on stage was exceptionally talented. Each role, whether solo or part of the ensemble, found a way to stand out while remaining part of a coherent and well-connected group. Cry-Baby The Musical transformed the entire venue, fully engaging the audience, no matter where they were seated. The show’s energy filled every corner of the space, creating a truly immersive and vibrant atmosphere.
Mehmet Ergen’s direction was spot on, and Robert Innes Hopkins delivered an outstanding job with the design. Given the scale of the production, I initially thought the venue might feel too small for such an ambitious show, but it was utilized cleverly and effectively. The staging was intimate yet expansive, and the space perfectly matched the demands of the musical. Chris Whittaker's choreography was dynamic and well-crafted, ensuring that the physicality of the show still captured the essence of the film’s unique vibe.
Music, of course, was at the heart of this production. The songs were not only fun and uplifting, but the second act in particular was even more powerful—driving the energy of the show with its music, lyrics, and dance. Ashton Moore, Matt Giles, and the live band did an incredible job maintaining high musical standards throughout the show.
Chad Saint Louis, as Dupree, was impossible to overlook. His vocal prowess far exceeded expectations, and his comedic timing blended perfectly with his remarkable talent. Lulu-Mae Pears and Adam Davidson brought the roles of Allison and Cry Baby to life, embodying the protagonists with charm and sincerity. Each of them made the characters their own, adding a personal touch to their performances. Similarly, the entire cast brought something unique to the show, leaving both individual and collective impressions.
One concern I had was how well Cry-Baby The Musical speaks to today’s audience and its connection to the present. While the show’s American commentary on the 1950s still resonates with today’s sociopolitical climate—particularly in the wake of Trump’s election—I felt the show could have connected more strongly to contemporary issues. It left me wondering whether different creative choices could have made the social commentary feel more relevant. Still, this does not take away from the fact that Cry-Baby The Musical is not just a revival of a cult classic, but a high-energy production full of laughter, dancing, and unforgettable performances that won’t be easily forgotten.
At Arcola Theatre until 12 April 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
