How do characters express their denial in "Ride the Cyclone"?

Characters in "Ride the Cyclone" express their denial primarily through humor and rationalization in their songs. The musical's approach to serious themes, such as death and existential crises, is often layered with wit and comedic elements. This use of humor serves as a coping mechanism, allowing characters to deflect their fear and grief. Instead of directly confronting their tragic circumstances, they resort to joking and making light of their situation, illustrating how denial can manifest in lighter, more palatable ways. This allows the audience to engage with the deeper emotions and conflicts while still appreciating the characters' attempts to navigate their reality. Through their musical numbers, the characters articulate their struggles and fears while masking their true feelings with humor, which is a poignant commentary on the human experience in the face of tragedy.