Interview: Baylie Carson on starring in UK debut of cult musical RIDE THE CYCLONE
Photo credit: Charlie Flint
The electrifying cult musical Ride the Cyclone is finally making its UK debut, and it's rapidly becoming one of the most talked about shows in London! We spoke to star Baylie Carson, who plays Ocean, to find out about their experience so far.
Can you tell us a little about how Ride the Cyclone defies genre conventions, and what makes it so special?
It defies genre conventions as there isn’t any genre in this show. Each character's journey is a reflection of them so the music lends itself to highlighting the individuality for each human. Meaning every song is there to serve the character and exactly who they are. Or wish they could have been on earth.
How does it feel to be part of bringing a cult favourite like this to the UK for the first time?
It’s wild. I was lucky enough to be in the world of SIX so I have been welcomed into an acclaimed fan base before. This is nice to be at the beginnings of the UK production and watch the love for it grow.
How have audiences been reacting so far?
Wildly. We have been picked up and applauded and loved.
What drew you to Ocean as a character? What are their most interesting aspects?
Honestly, I was just given time for the character to audition without really any prior knowledge of her. I knew of the show, but nothing in depth about its story or journey. But getting her material in the audition, I immediately understood her manic ramblings of perfectionism and anxiety. What’s interesting about her is the journey of self-discovery she has in the show. She has built up a full mask (persona) that she has built to help her brain seek order and understanding of the world. And to watch her slowly take those bricks down to become more human is very interesting
In what ways have you brought your own unique touches to the character?
As someone that is neurodivergent, I feel I have brought that to the role. Ocean has tunnel vision and only one way forward and if that is prodded at she self-destructs …. I understand this deeply…
Aside from your own, which character's song affects you the most?
I love ‘Space Age Bachelor Man’. Ricky to me… is me, haha. As a neurodivergent human that creates wild, elaborate fantasy worlds in their head, I truly feel seen through the eyes of Ricky.
What do you hope viewers take away from the show?
To be present in every day you live. And to not take anything for granted.
