Interview with Adam Davidson, Cry-Baby The Musical
Conducted by Danai for Theatre & Tonic
Making its UK premiere at the Arcola Theatre, Cry-Baby The Musical is the Tony-nominated cult classic from the makers of Hairspray. Cry-Baby: The Musical is a rock 'n' roll show set in 1950s Baltimore that follows Wade "Cry-Baby" Walker, a rebellious bad boy who falls for the prim and proper Allison, leading to a clash between the "drapes" and the "squares." With catchy tunes and a satirical edge, the musical explores themes of love, acceptance, and social class. Starring in the titular role is Adam Davidson whose previous work includes Grease (UK & Ireland Tour) and White Christmas (Sheffield Crucible). He did a quick fire interview with us to tell us more about the production.
Cry Baby blends rock 'n' roll, camp, and a bit of edge with its storytelling. How does it feel to take on a character that sits at the intersection of rebellion and heart? Is there a part of the character you personally connect with or find surprising?
Cry-Baby is a hugely fun part to play as there are so many different aspects of his personality to play around and have fun with. I personally really enjoy the fact that he isn’t a one dimensional character and can have moments of love and vulnerability but also tougher moments where he stands up to views and people he doesn’t believe in. I also believe he has very strong morales which allows him to find the good in people that, on the surface, may not come across as such.
Cry Baby is set in the 1950s, but its themes of individuality, social expectations, and love feel just as relevant today. How do you connect your character’s struggles to current issues, and what makes this production resonate with today’s audience?
The themes are very relevant in the times we live in: Individuality, acceptance and respect are integral to the piece and, though it is veiled through satire, it doesn’t make them any less impactful. We can all understand how these themes will resonate with today’s audiences with everything that is happening in the world currently. Saying that, the show at its heart is a comedy but if the audience leaves thinking in a small way about these issues, I think we’ve done our job.
With such a strong ensemble cast, how does the dynamic between the cast members shape your portrayal of the protagonist? Are there moments of collaboration that particularly stand out in rehearsals or performances?
I want to start by saying that show is blessed with an unbelievable cast and I feel very lucky to have such talented colleagues. The show is such an ensemble piece that there are too many moments to highlight one individually but I find it really helpful in using other people’s reactions to tailor my performance around as the characters’ personality is shaped by other’s opinion of him.
I hope that people will come and watch this production and see the amazing work my colleagues and I have put in to making it.
Cry-Baby The Musical plays at the Arcola Theatre until 12 April 2025. Read our review of the production here.
