cheap theatrics

Insincere emotions and behavior intended to achieve a desired outcome or to be perceived as the victim. This phrase is similar to “crocodile tears” but this phrase is saying that they are putting up a big act that is not appropriate to the situation.

Person A: (points to his ear telling someone their boombox is too loud)
Person B: starts crying and says “You (Person A) embarrassed me in front of everyone”
Person A: “Stop the cheap theatrics! It’s not a big deal to be told to turn down the music”

cheap theatrics

Insincere emotions and behavior intended to achieve a desired outcome or be perceived as the victim. One’s behavior is inappropriate to the situation at hand and is obviously a bad acting job.

*During a spin class*
Person A: (points to hear and then points index finger down mouthing it is too loud!
Person B: (stops the music and starts crying) “You embarassed me in front of everyone and made be feel terrible”
Person A: “Stop the cheap theatrics. It’s not a big deal that I told you that the music is too loud. It’s nothing personal”