Saltpillar brings cult ’90s film to the stage
The musical is based on John Waters' 1990 film and is set in 1954 Baltimore.
Melbourne Jewish theatre company Saltpillar will stage Cry-Baby the Musical at the Phoenix Theatre in Elwood from October 11 to 25.
The musical is based on John Waters’ 1990 film and is set in 1954 Baltimore following a group of rebellious teenagers known as the Drapes.
The production is directed by George Lazaris, with music direction by Matan Franco and choreography by Leona Lenore. Jesse Kline plays the title role, with Joelle Noar as Allison, in a cast of more than 20 performers.
Founded in 1986, Saltpillar is a Jewish organisation that stages productions with local performers while engaging the broader Melbourne community.
Saltpillar producer Dani Harrison said the company provides a space for young Jewish performers.
“Saltpillar is so much more than just a theatre company. It’s a place of belonging, connection and provides a safe place where young Jewish performers can come together, be themselves and form genuine friendships through a shared love of theatre.”
Cast member Jasper Sherman, who plays Baldwin, said the company had given performers somewhere to work at a difficult time for Jewish artists.
“After graduating high school I had disregarded the possibility of continuing to perform, even though it is a passion of mine. Saltpillar has given me a safe space to perform in an industry increasingly hostile to Jewish creatives, and I am forever grateful for that.”
Kline, who plays the lead role, is studying a Bachelor of Design, majoring in architecture, at the University of Melbourne. He made his Saltpillar debut last year as Rich in Be More Chill.
“Saltpillar has served as my primary creative outlet for my deep passion of singing, stage and performance,” Kline said.
“Being part of Cry-Baby this year has reminded me how much I need that outlet, and how grateful I am to have a community that makes space for it. It’s where I get to chase that adrenaline, feel genuinely fulfilled, and step into another world entirely.”
Kailey Silver plays Mona “Hatchet-Face” and is a graduate of Mount Scopus. Silver said the company had kept her connected to the community since leaving school.
“Saltpillar has kept my passion for musical theatre strong and has played a massive role in popping me back on my path of pursuing musical theatre professionally, during a time when I was scared to put myself out there in that way.”
The production team also includes associate producer Camryn Elbaum and set designer Netanel Morris.
Tickets are available at
saltpillar.org.au/crybaby