In this Behind the Curtain interview we speak to Adam Davidson star of the UK premiere of the musical stage adaption of the 1990s movie
Cry-baby currently playing at the Arcola Theatre.
Could you tell us what Cry-Baby is about?
It’s 1954. Everyone likes Ike, nobody likes communism and Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker is the coolest boy in Baltimore. He’s a bad boy with a good cause – truth, justice and the pursuit of rock and roll. Enter Allison, a strait-laced rich girl who trades her “Square” boyfriend, Baldwin, for the irresistible allure of Cry-Baby and his misfit crew, the Drapes. As rivalries intensify and hearts break, the city is turned upside-down in a rollicking tale of forbidden love and teen rebellion.
You are playing the title role of “Cry Baby”, can you describe your character and how do you feel about playing the title role of this cult classic adaption?
Cry-baby is a misunderstood, misfit longing for someone to understand him. He finds that Allison, a girl from “the other side of the tracks”, who consistently surprises him and with who he falls in love with. It’s very Romeo and Juliet. I managed to watch the movie before rehearsals and to be trying to fill the shoes of Johnny Depp is an exciting proposition.
This show is based on the movie by Jon Waters and it is making its UK premiere. Since starting rehearsals, what should fans of the film and new audiences expect from this show?
I think fans of the film can expect to be surprised as some of the plot has been changed to fit into a musical experience, however, it still has the same heart and off-the-wall humour that the movie gave us. New audiences are going be smacked in the face with big vocals, a load of laughs and an incredible talented cast!
How does it feel to be part of a musical adaptation of such an iconic film? Does this make you more nervous?
I don’t feel nervous necessarily. I think it’s a fun challenge to take something like Cry-Baby and put your own stamp on it without losing the essence of the original. Putting your own spin to a role is the best part of being an actor.
How would you describe the music of this show, and what song that you don’t sing that you're looking forward to the audience hearing?
The music gives you a contrast of classic 50s Rock ‘n’ roll and more square, barbershop style songs. The contrast of which is a really fun part of the show. I mean it’s hard to choose! The vocals everywhere are exceptional so it would be hard to choose one particular song or performer but just wait till you hear Chad Saint Louis…
What drives you to be a performer, what is it about theatre that you love and why?
I always find this a difficult question. I usually say it’s the music. Music is the thing that gets me excited and makes me happy. The opportunity as well for the (clichéd) escapism, not only for audience, but for performers is something that makes love theatre so special every night.
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage before the curtain goes up?
I mean depends on the day and the show. If it’s a press night or opening night, I’ll say a love you to my dad who passed away. If it’s any other show I’ll try to have a laugh with someone backstage just to get the energy going.
Favourite part of the show and why?
At the moment (although this may change) is probably A Little Upset which is the big dance number in Act 2 which is a load of fun to sing and dance.
How are rehearsals going? and what has been the one thing you have learnt from this show so far that you will take on to other projects?
Rehearsals have been interesting as we’ve not been able to have everyone for the entire process so it’s been a bit harder to try and build those relationships with people which is important for being part of a smaller show. This is also my first lead role in my own right so it has been really fun to try and get my teeth into.
Describe the show in one sentence or three words.
self aware, cynical and a good laugh!
Cry-Baby plays at the Arcola Theatre until the 12th of April.
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