Cry-Baby: The Musical, based on the 1990 film by
John Waters, is a rockabilly musical set in 1954 Baltimore. It tells the story of Wade "Cry-Baby" Walker, a cool, rebellious "drape" (Baltimore juvenile delinquent), and Allison Vernon-Williams, a "square" girl from a wealthy background, who fall for each other. Their romance sparks conflict with Allison's squeaky-clean boyfriend, Baldwin, and his close-harmony group, the Whiffles. The musical explores themes of truth, justice, and the pursuit of rock and roll, all while satirizing 1950s American culture and teen rebellion. The musical is known for its high-energy songs, unique characters, and a storythat parodies teen musicals and juvenile delinquency stereotypes.