Proud Cry-Baby Enthusiast

[westcoastdrama]

Posted: 3/17/08 at 5:03pm

I'm slightly disconcerted that people are so ready to hate Cry-Baby after a dress and one preview. I saw the first preview on Broadway and also saw the show in La Jolla. I liked it both times very much and think the show has a lot going for it. It seems to me that the creative team has done work on the show since the out of town engagement, and it seems to now have a bit more "Jon Waters edge." I bet they continue to do some work during the preview process. Also, the leads have gotten a lot better. And what can I say about James Snyder - I can't help myself. A looker and a great Broadway debut.

I have seen a lot this season. This show may surprise everyone. It is terriffic fun and a total crowd pleaser. It's also smart while still being old-fashioned at the same time. Also, I think everyone can agree the show looks great, sounds great, moves great, etc.

What all of you have to remember (and none of you have commented on) is that it's a lampoon of the early 50s. Stop comparing it to Hairspray - it is not supposed to have that same sensibility. It's a good girl meets bad boy story line and I don't think it is intended for us to examine the psychological underpinings of such a relationship. Things just happen in Cry-Baby - go with it and stop being such crumudgeons. The show is fun and funny (in a good way) and is pretty much a satire of how we have all imagined (or lived) the 50s - plain and simple.

Maybe I like my musicals a bit old-fashioned with no need for a heavy message like ITH or PS- so sue me, as the song goes.
Updated On: 3/17/08 at 05:03 PM