Waitress, The Musical - Live on Broadway!
Based on the 2007 Adrienne Shelly film, Waitress is a Broadway musical by Sara Bareilles that tells the story of Jenna, a pie-maker and waitress who is stuck in an unfulfilling marriage in a small town. Jenna finds solace in baking and dreams of winning a baking contest in a nearby city to escape her mundane life. When Jenna becomes pregnant, she decides to take control of her life with the help of her co-workers and a new town doctor. She confronts her past, faces her fears, and makes life-changing choices. Filmed live on Broadway in 2021.
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Theatre History
Original Film
Written and directed by Adrienne Shelley, the original film version of Waitress was an independent film from Night and Day Pictures starring Keri Russell, Nathan Fillion, Cheryl Hines, and Shelley herself. A few months before its Sundance premier, Shelley was tragically murdered in her office in New York. Adrienne, a documentary celebrating Shelley’s life is available to stream on Amazon. The Adrienne Shelley Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women filmmakers.
Waitress was acquired by Fox Searchlight hours after the film's premier, and went on to gross $21.2 million worldwide.
New York Times film critic A.O. Scott has described the film as “a simple, sweet, satisfying story. It’s a lovely movie to see, to watch, to watch again, to savor the performances, the writing, the direction, and also to feel a stab of sadness that we won’t see any more films from Adrienne Shelley.”
The 2007 film is currently available to stream on Amazon.
Written and directed by Adrienne Shelley, the original film version of Waitress was an independent film from Night and Day Pictures starring Keri Russell, Nathan Fillion, Cheryl Hines, and Shelley herself. A few months before its Sundance premier, Shelley was tragically murdered in her office in New York. Adrienne, a documentary celebrating Shelley’s life is available to stream on Amazon. The Adrienne Shelley Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women filmmakers.
Waitress was acquired by Fox Searchlight hours after the film's premier, and went on to gross $21.2 million worldwide.
New York Times film critic A.O. Scott has described the film as “a simple, sweet, satisfying story. It’s a lovely movie to see, to watch, to watch again, to savor the performances, the writing, the direction, and also to feel a stab of sadness that we won’t see any more films from Adrienne Shelley.”
The 2007 film is currently available to stream on Amazon.
Musical Adaptation
In early June 2013, it was announced that Barry and Fran Weissler were producing a new musical based on Waitress to be directed by Diane Paulus, with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles (Jesus Christ Superstar Live!), and book by Paula Vogel.
At the time of the announcement, Sara Bareilles was already an acclaimed singer-songwriter with seven albums and over two million album sales to her name. In 2012 she was listed by VH1 in the “100 Greatest Women in Music.”
Due to scheduling conflicts, Paula Vogel stepped away from the project in 2014 and Jessie Nelson was brought on to write the book.
It late 2014 it was announced that Jessie Mueller would lead the musical in the role of Jenna.
The first song written for the musical was “She Used to Be Mine,” written when Bareilles first moved to New York. The song was was released as a single, and also on the album “What’s Inside: Songs from Waitress,” which dropped in 2015. The album debuted at number 10 in the Billboard 200 Albums chart, marking Bareilles’ fifth top 10 album.
In early June 2013, it was announced that Barry and Fran Weissler were producing a new musical based on Waitress to be directed by Diane Paulus, with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles (Jesus Christ Superstar Live!), and book by Paula Vogel.
At the time of the announcement, Sara Bareilles was already an acclaimed singer-songwriter with seven albums and over two million album sales to her name. In 2012 she was listed by VH1 in the “100 Greatest Women in Music.”
Due to scheduling conflicts, Paula Vogel stepped away from the project in 2014 and Jessie Nelson was brought on to write the book.
It late 2014 it was announced that Jessie Mueller would lead the musical in the role of Jenna.
The first song written for the musical was “She Used to Be Mine,” written when Bareilles first moved to New York. The song was was released as a single, and also on the album “What’s Inside: Songs from Waitress,” which dropped in 2015. The album debuted at number 10 in the Billboard 200 Albums chart, marking Bareilles’ fifth top 10 album.
American Repertory Theater
Waitress opened at the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in Boston on August 20, 2015. Along with director Diane Paulus, the creative team included choreographer Chase Brock, scenic designer Scott Pask, costume designer Suttirat Larlarb, lightning designer Kenneth Posner, sound designer Jonathan Deans, and wig and make-up design by Rachel Padula Shufelt and Jason Allen. Nadia DiGiallonardo was the music supervisor, and Thomas J. Gates was the production stage manager.
The cast included Jessie Muller (Jenna), Eric Anderson (Cal), Keala Settle (Becky), Jeanna De Waal (Dawn), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Joe Tippett (Earl), Drew Gehling (Dr Pomatter), Jeremy Morse (Ogie), Giana Ribeiro (Lulu), Addison Oken (Lulu), with Charity Angél Dawson, David Jennings, Corey Mach, Ragan Pharris, Cullen R. Titmas, and Stephan Torns in the ensemble.
The band included Nadia DiGiallonardo (piano/conductor), Adam Michael Kaufman (associate conductor), Rich Hinman (guitar), Lee Nadel (bass), Yair Evnine (cello), and Jamie Edwards (keyboard).
Pies for the production were provided by Petsi Pies! in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The A.R.T. run closed up shop on September 27, 2015.
Broadway
Directed by Diane Paulus, music, lyrics, and orchestrations by Sara Bareilles, book by Jessie Nelson, and choreography by Lorin Latarro, Waitress was billed as the first Broadway show to be helmed by an all-female core creative team.
The creative team also included set designer Scott Pask, costume designer Suttirat Larlarb, lighting designer Christopher Akerlind, sound designer Jonathan Deans, and wig and make-up designers Rachel Padula-Shufelt and Jason Allen. Matthew Lacey served as the stage manager with assistant Becky Fleming.
Nadia DiGiallonardo was the musical director, conductor, and pianist. The band included Rich Mercurio (drums), Jamie Edwards (keyboard/keyboard programmer), Meghan Toohey (guitar), Lee Nadel (bass), and Yair Evnine (cello/guitar).
The musical also utilized a pie consultant, Stacy Donnelly - who is a former dancer - the first for a Broadway musical. According to Bon Appétite, Donnelly’s company Cute as Cake provided 32 real pies for use onstage, along with 1400 “mason jar pies” which were sold in the theatre along with more traditional concessions. A special oven was installed in the lobby of the Brooks Atkinson Theater which baked a “super-concentrated pie filled with a major overdose of cinnamon and nutmeg” to create a delicious atmospheric smell.
Waitress began its Broadway previews at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre on on March 25, 2016. Following 33 previews, the musical officially opened on April 24, 2016.
The opening night Broadway cast included Jessie Mueller (Jenna), Keala Settle (Becky), Kimiko Glenn (Dawn), Drew Gehling (Dr Pomatter), Nick Cordero (Earl), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Eric Anderson (Cal), Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie), Charity Angél Dawson (Nurse Norma/Ensemble), with Thay Floyd, Molly Hager, Aisha Jackson, Claire Keane, McKenna Keane, Jeremy Morse, and Stephanie Torns.
Broadway Reviews
Waitress received mixed reviews. Critics universally praised the performances of the cast, particularly Jessie Mueller, and generally praised Sara Bareilles’ score. They also expressed concerns over the effectiveness of the supporting characters and Jessie Nelson’s tendency to stick to the movie script.
In a review for The New York Times, Charles Isherwood described Waitress as an “agreeable if unexceptional musical.” Isherwood praised the performances of the leads, notably Jessie Mueller for her “rich, soulful and emotionally translucent voice, and an ability to bring heaping cupfuls of subtext to her acting.” Isherwood also enjoyed Sara Bareilles’ “appealing” score, particularly the Act 2 ballad “She Used To Be Mine,” which Isherwood described as “a high point of the Broadway season.” Despite these praises, Isherwood felt the musical relied on “slick surface professionalism rather than anything approaching real depth” and that Jessie Nelson’s book, like the original film, “flatten[ed] most of the characters into comic cartoons.”
Writing for New York Theatre Guide, Tulis MacCull stated “Waitress is a musical that will leave you fahklempt, because of Sarah Bareilles' sublime music, but seriously unsatisfied with the decision to overstuff this story.”
The NY Post’s Elisabeth Vincentelli felt the musical was “a rare case of an adaptation besting its source material…” and that “everything comes together with a deceiving ease.” Vincentelli also noted the impact of the women creative team - “the jokes about spotting and Pap smears are both funny and jolting. You just never hear about that stuff on Broadway, even though it’s pretty familiar to at least 50 percent of audiences.”
David Cote wrote, rather scrumptiously, in Time Out, “Fresh and delicious, Waitress has an excellent ratio of sweet to tart; supporting characters who provide crustiness… and flakiness…; and cooked-to-perfection staging by Diane Paulus. The whole dish is—please forgive me—love at first bite.”
Awards
In a year that was dominated by Hamilton across the board, Waitress was nominated for multiple awards.
Tony Award Nominations
Drama Desk Award Nominations
Drama League Awards
Outer Critics Circle Awards
Grammy Awards
Starry Replacements
Throughout the run, the lead roles were played by a starry roster of well-known film, television, and musical theatre actors. The role of Jenna was played by Katharine McPhee, Stephanie Torns, Sara Bareilles, Jordin Sparks, Alison Luff, Shoshana Bean, Nicolette Robinson, and Betsy Wolfe.
The role of Dr. Pottamer was played by Erich Bergen, Mark Evans, Jeremy Jordan, Joey McIntyre, Gavin Creel, Steven Good, Henry Gottfried, Jason Mraz, and Chris Diamantopoulos.
The role of Earl was played by Ben Thompson, Joe Tippett, Will Swenson, Matt DeAngelis, and William Pop.
The role of Joe was played by Larry Marshall, Al Roker, Richard Kline, June Squibb, Bill Nolte, Steve Vinovich, Lee Wilkof, and John Cullum.
The role of Ogie was played by Todrick Hall, Noah Galvin, Eddie Jemison (who played the role in the original film), Alex Wyse, Adam Shapiro, David Josefsberg, and Jeremy Morse.
Colleen Ballinger, best known by her alter-ego Miranda Sings, also briefly appeared in the show as Dawn.
Recoupment
According to the New York Times, the musical recouped its $12 million investment in less than 10 months (Hamilton also recouped in the same season).
After 33 previews and 1544 regular performances, Waitress closed on January 5, 2020. At the time of its closing, it was the longest-running musical at the Brooks Atkinson Theater.
North American tours
A national tour was launched in Cleveland, Ohio in October 2017. The tour opened with Desi Oakley (Jenna), Nick Bailey (Earl), Charity Angél Dawson (Becky), Ryan G. Dunkin (Cal), Bryan Fenkart (Dr. Pomatter), Lenne Klingaman (Dawn), Larry Marshall (Joe), Jeremy Morse (Ogie), Patrick Dunn, Jim Hogan, Kyra Kennedy (Francine), Maiesha McQueen (Nurse Norma), Gerianne Pérez, and Grace Stockdale.
The first national tour closed in Toronto, Canada in August 2019.
The second national tour was launched in April 2022 with two companies — one union and one non-union. Actors’ Equity initiated a campaign to unionize the latter, as the non-union company was reportedly paid one-third of the salary of the union company despite doing the same level of work, training the union company on occasion, and even stepping into the Broadway production during the omicron wave of Covid-19. The campaign was dropped a month later when it was announced that the tour would close in June, thus not allowing enough time for elections to take place.
West End
Following a month of previews, Waitress opened in the West on March 7, 2019.
The cast included Katharine McPhee (Jenna), David Hunter (Dr. Pomatter), Marisha Wallace (Becky), Laura Baldwin (Dawn Pinkett), Shaun Prendergast (Joe), Jack McBrayer (Ogie), Peter Hannah (Earl), Stephen Leask (Cal), and Kelly Agbowu (Nurse Norma).
The musical was nominated for two Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Musical and Original Score or Orchestrations.
Sara Bareilles and Gavin Creel joined the cast as Jenna and Dr. Pomatter on January 28, 2020 for a limited 8-week engagement. It was rumored the musical would be filmed during their run.
On March 14, 2020, the West End production of Waitress was forced to close due to the COVID pandemic.
COVID
During the COVID crisis and theatre shutdown, actor Nick Cordero, passed away due to complications from COVID in July 2020. In his honor, a pie was added to the concessions menu on the national tour and 2nd Broadway run — “A Big Ol Slice of Live Your Life Pie,” a reference to one of Cordero’s original songs.
Re-Opening
Following the theatre shutdown in 2020, Waitress was one of the first musicals to re-open on Broadway. Waitress re-opened at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on September 2, 2021.
The opening number was livestreamed on TikTok and viewed by over 18,000 people.
The opening night cast included Sara Bareilles (Jenna), Eric Anderson (Cal), Charity Angél Dawson (Becky), Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie), Drew Gehling (Dr. Pomatter), Caitlin Houlahan (Dawn), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Joe Tippett (Earl), Tyrone Davis Jr., Matt DeAngelis, Henry Gottfried, Molly Jobe, Max Kumangai, Anastacia McCleskey, Stephanie Torns (Francine), Hattie Cecelia Tutalo (Lulu), Nyla Watson (Lulu Alternate), Nora Lincoln Weiner (Lulu Alternate), Andrew Fitch (swing), Emily Koch (swing), and Gerianne Pérez (swing).
Replacements
As with the original Broadway run, various stars of stage, film, and television stepped into the show.
The role of Jenna was played by Jennifer Nettles and Ciara Renée.
The role of Dr. Pomatter was played by Erich Bergen and Joshua Henry.
The role of Dawn was played by Ashley Blanchet.
The role of Ogie was played by Tyrone Davis Jr., Nik Dodani
Final Months on Broadway
The September 22 performance was filmed live under the direction of Brett Sullivan (see Film History below).
After 122 performances, the second run of Waitress closed at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on June December 20, 2021.
International Performances
The Broadway production of Waitress has been performed on tour throughout the United Kingdom, and in Japan. An Australian production was set to be produced by Gordon Frost in 2020 but has not yet been rescheduled.
Non-replica productions have been performed in the Philippines, Argentina (under the title Camarera), Poland, and Finland (under the title Waitress: The Recipe for Dreams)
Licensing
Waitress has been acquired for licensing by Music Theatre International, however the musical is not yet available for general licensing.
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Waitress opened at the American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.) in Boston on August 20, 2015. Along with director Diane Paulus, the creative team included choreographer Chase Brock, scenic designer Scott Pask, costume designer Suttirat Larlarb, lightning designer Kenneth Posner, sound designer Jonathan Deans, and wig and make-up design by Rachel Padula Shufelt and Jason Allen. Nadia DiGiallonardo was the music supervisor, and Thomas J. Gates was the production stage manager.
The cast included Jessie Muller (Jenna), Eric Anderson (Cal), Keala Settle (Becky), Jeanna De Waal (Dawn), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Joe Tippett (Earl), Drew Gehling (Dr Pomatter), Jeremy Morse (Ogie), Giana Ribeiro (Lulu), Addison Oken (Lulu), with Charity Angél Dawson, David Jennings, Corey Mach, Ragan Pharris, Cullen R. Titmas, and Stephan Torns in the ensemble.
The band included Nadia DiGiallonardo (piano/conductor), Adam Michael Kaufman (associate conductor), Rich Hinman (guitar), Lee Nadel (bass), Yair Evnine (cello), and Jamie Edwards (keyboard).
Pies for the production were provided by Petsi Pies! in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The A.R.T. run closed up shop on September 27, 2015.
Broadway
Directed by Diane Paulus, music, lyrics, and orchestrations by Sara Bareilles, book by Jessie Nelson, and choreography by Lorin Latarro, Waitress was billed as the first Broadway show to be helmed by an all-female core creative team.
The creative team also included set designer Scott Pask, costume designer Suttirat Larlarb, lighting designer Christopher Akerlind, sound designer Jonathan Deans, and wig and make-up designers Rachel Padula-Shufelt and Jason Allen. Matthew Lacey served as the stage manager with assistant Becky Fleming.
Nadia DiGiallonardo was the musical director, conductor, and pianist. The band included Rich Mercurio (drums), Jamie Edwards (keyboard/keyboard programmer), Meghan Toohey (guitar), Lee Nadel (bass), and Yair Evnine (cello/guitar).
The musical also utilized a pie consultant, Stacy Donnelly - who is a former dancer - the first for a Broadway musical. According to Bon Appétite, Donnelly’s company Cute as Cake provided 32 real pies for use onstage, along with 1400 “mason jar pies” which were sold in the theatre along with more traditional concessions. A special oven was installed in the lobby of the Brooks Atkinson Theater which baked a “super-concentrated pie filled with a major overdose of cinnamon and nutmeg” to create a delicious atmospheric smell.
Waitress began its Broadway previews at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre on on March 25, 2016. Following 33 previews, the musical officially opened on April 24, 2016.
The opening night Broadway cast included Jessie Mueller (Jenna), Keala Settle (Becky), Kimiko Glenn (Dawn), Drew Gehling (Dr Pomatter), Nick Cordero (Earl), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Eric Anderson (Cal), Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie), Charity Angél Dawson (Nurse Norma/Ensemble), with Thay Floyd, Molly Hager, Aisha Jackson, Claire Keane, McKenna Keane, Jeremy Morse, and Stephanie Torns.
Broadway Reviews
Waitress received mixed reviews. Critics universally praised the performances of the cast, particularly Jessie Mueller, and generally praised Sara Bareilles’ score. They also expressed concerns over the effectiveness of the supporting characters and Jessie Nelson’s tendency to stick to the movie script.
In a review for The New York Times, Charles Isherwood described Waitress as an “agreeable if unexceptional musical.” Isherwood praised the performances of the leads, notably Jessie Mueller for her “rich, soulful and emotionally translucent voice, and an ability to bring heaping cupfuls of subtext to her acting.” Isherwood also enjoyed Sara Bareilles’ “appealing” score, particularly the Act 2 ballad “She Used To Be Mine,” which Isherwood described as “a high point of the Broadway season.” Despite these praises, Isherwood felt the musical relied on “slick surface professionalism rather than anything approaching real depth” and that Jessie Nelson’s book, like the original film, “flatten[ed] most of the characters into comic cartoons.”
Writing for New York Theatre Guide, Tulis MacCull stated “Waitress is a musical that will leave you fahklempt, because of Sarah Bareilles' sublime music, but seriously unsatisfied with the decision to overstuff this story.”
The NY Post’s Elisabeth Vincentelli felt the musical was “a rare case of an adaptation besting its source material…” and that “everything comes together with a deceiving ease.” Vincentelli also noted the impact of the women creative team - “the jokes about spotting and Pap smears are both funny and jolting. You just never hear about that stuff on Broadway, even though it’s pretty familiar to at least 50 percent of audiences.”
David Cote wrote, rather scrumptiously, in Time Out, “Fresh and delicious, Waitress has an excellent ratio of sweet to tart; supporting characters who provide crustiness… and flakiness…; and cooked-to-perfection staging by Diane Paulus. The whole dish is—please forgive me—love at first bite.”
Awards
In a year that was dominated by Hamilton across the board, Waitress was nominated for multiple awards.
Tony Award Nominations
- Best Musical
- Best Original Score (Sara Bareilles)
- Best Leading Actress in a Musical (Jessie Mueller),
- Best Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical (Christopher Fitzgerald)
Drama Desk Award Nominations
- Outstanding Musical
- Outstanding Book of a Musical (Jessie Nelson)
- Outstanding Actress in a Musical (Jessie Mueller)
- Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical (Christopher Fitzgerald) - winner
- Outstanding Lyrics (Sara Bareilles)
- Outstanding Music (Sara Bareilles)
Drama League Awards
- Outstanding Production of a Broadway or off-Broadway Musical
- Distinguished Performance Award (Jessie Mueller)
Outer Critics Circle Awards
- Outstanding New Broadway Musical
- Outstanding Actress in a Musical
- Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical (Christopher Fitzgerald) - winner
- Outstanding New Score (Broadway or off-Broadway) (Sara Bareilles)
Grammy Awards
- Best Musical Theatre Album
Starry Replacements
Throughout the run, the lead roles were played by a starry roster of well-known film, television, and musical theatre actors. The role of Jenna was played by Katharine McPhee, Stephanie Torns, Sara Bareilles, Jordin Sparks, Alison Luff, Shoshana Bean, Nicolette Robinson, and Betsy Wolfe.
The role of Dr. Pottamer was played by Erich Bergen, Mark Evans, Jeremy Jordan, Joey McIntyre, Gavin Creel, Steven Good, Henry Gottfried, Jason Mraz, and Chris Diamantopoulos.
The role of Earl was played by Ben Thompson, Joe Tippett, Will Swenson, Matt DeAngelis, and William Pop.
The role of Joe was played by Larry Marshall, Al Roker, Richard Kline, June Squibb, Bill Nolte, Steve Vinovich, Lee Wilkof, and John Cullum.
The role of Ogie was played by Todrick Hall, Noah Galvin, Eddie Jemison (who played the role in the original film), Alex Wyse, Adam Shapiro, David Josefsberg, and Jeremy Morse.
Colleen Ballinger, best known by her alter-ego Miranda Sings, also briefly appeared in the show as Dawn.
Recoupment
According to the New York Times, the musical recouped its $12 million investment in less than 10 months (Hamilton also recouped in the same season).
After 33 previews and 1544 regular performances, Waitress closed on January 5, 2020. At the time of its closing, it was the longest-running musical at the Brooks Atkinson Theater.
North American tours
A national tour was launched in Cleveland, Ohio in October 2017. The tour opened with Desi Oakley (Jenna), Nick Bailey (Earl), Charity Angél Dawson (Becky), Ryan G. Dunkin (Cal), Bryan Fenkart (Dr. Pomatter), Lenne Klingaman (Dawn), Larry Marshall (Joe), Jeremy Morse (Ogie), Patrick Dunn, Jim Hogan, Kyra Kennedy (Francine), Maiesha McQueen (Nurse Norma), Gerianne Pérez, and Grace Stockdale.
The first national tour closed in Toronto, Canada in August 2019.
The second national tour was launched in April 2022 with two companies — one union and one non-union. Actors’ Equity initiated a campaign to unionize the latter, as the non-union company was reportedly paid one-third of the salary of the union company despite doing the same level of work, training the union company on occasion, and even stepping into the Broadway production during the omicron wave of Covid-19. The campaign was dropped a month later when it was announced that the tour would close in June, thus not allowing enough time for elections to take place.
West End
Following a month of previews, Waitress opened in the West on March 7, 2019.
The cast included Katharine McPhee (Jenna), David Hunter (Dr. Pomatter), Marisha Wallace (Becky), Laura Baldwin (Dawn Pinkett), Shaun Prendergast (Joe), Jack McBrayer (Ogie), Peter Hannah (Earl), Stephen Leask (Cal), and Kelly Agbowu (Nurse Norma).
The musical was nominated for two Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Musical and Original Score or Orchestrations.
Sara Bareilles and Gavin Creel joined the cast as Jenna and Dr. Pomatter on January 28, 2020 for a limited 8-week engagement. It was rumored the musical would be filmed during their run.
On March 14, 2020, the West End production of Waitress was forced to close due to the COVID pandemic.
COVID
During the COVID crisis and theatre shutdown, actor Nick Cordero, passed away due to complications from COVID in July 2020. In his honor, a pie was added to the concessions menu on the national tour and 2nd Broadway run — “A Big Ol Slice of Live Your Life Pie,” a reference to one of Cordero’s original songs.
Re-Opening
Following the theatre shutdown in 2020, Waitress was one of the first musicals to re-open on Broadway. Waitress re-opened at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on September 2, 2021.
The opening number was livestreamed on TikTok and viewed by over 18,000 people.
The opening night cast included Sara Bareilles (Jenna), Eric Anderson (Cal), Charity Angél Dawson (Becky), Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie), Drew Gehling (Dr. Pomatter), Caitlin Houlahan (Dawn), Dakin Matthews (Joe), Joe Tippett (Earl), Tyrone Davis Jr., Matt DeAngelis, Henry Gottfried, Molly Jobe, Max Kumangai, Anastacia McCleskey, Stephanie Torns (Francine), Hattie Cecelia Tutalo (Lulu), Nyla Watson (Lulu Alternate), Nora Lincoln Weiner (Lulu Alternate), Andrew Fitch (swing), Emily Koch (swing), and Gerianne Pérez (swing).
Replacements
As with the original Broadway run, various stars of stage, film, and television stepped into the show.
The role of Jenna was played by Jennifer Nettles and Ciara Renée.
The role of Dr. Pomatter was played by Erich Bergen and Joshua Henry.
The role of Dawn was played by Ashley Blanchet.
The role of Ogie was played by Tyrone Davis Jr., Nik Dodani
Final Months on Broadway
The September 22 performance was filmed live under the direction of Brett Sullivan (see Film History below).
After 122 performances, the second run of Waitress closed at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre on June December 20, 2021.
International Performances
The Broadway production of Waitress has been performed on tour throughout the United Kingdom, and in Japan. An Australian production was set to be produced by Gordon Frost in 2020 but has not yet been rescheduled.
Non-replica productions have been performed in the Philippines, Argentina (under the title Camarera), Poland, and Finland (under the title Waitress: The Recipe for Dreams)
Licensing
Waitress has been acquired for licensing by Music Theatre International, however the musical is not yet available for general licensing.
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Filmed Live History
Waitress was filmed live on September 22, 2021 during its second Broadway run at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. The film was produced by Michael Roiff, Barry & Fran Weissler, Sara Bareilles, Jessie Nelson, and Paul Morphos, and executive produced by Alecia Parker. Filmed live musicals veteran Brett Sullivan, who directed Kinky Boots, Love Never Dies, and Billy Elliott, Newsies, Miss Saigon, served as the director.
Waitress, The Musical - Live on Broadway!, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival at the OKX Theatre at BMCC TPAC on June 12, 2023. Following the screening, Sara Bareilles performed “She Used to Be Mine” live for the audience.
The premier was simultaneously broadcast in Times Square, though the outdoor screening was hampered by inclement weather.
The film was screened again during the Tribeca Film Festival on June 13 at the AMC 19th St, East 6; June 15 at Village East by Angelika; and on June 18 at the SVA Theatre. Book writer Jessie Nelson and composer and star Sara Bareilles appeared for a short Q&A at the conclusion of the final screening. All four screenings were sold out with rush tickets available at the door.
In an enthusiastic review for Geek Vibes Nation, Larry Fried noted
Waitress, The Musical - Live on Broadway!, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival at the OKX Theatre at BMCC TPAC on June 12, 2023. Following the screening, Sara Bareilles performed “She Used to Be Mine” live for the audience.
The premier was simultaneously broadcast in Times Square, though the outdoor screening was hampered by inclement weather.
The film was screened again during the Tribeca Film Festival on June 13 at the AMC 19th St, East 6; June 15 at Village East by Angelika; and on June 18 at the SVA Theatre. Book writer Jessie Nelson and composer and star Sara Bareilles appeared for a short Q&A at the conclusion of the final screening. All four screenings were sold out with rush tickets available at the door.
In an enthusiastic review for Geek Vibes Nation, Larry Fried noted
“For such a popular, resonant musical to have a quality recording, let alone one that doesn’t alter the material in its translation while still reinventing it cinematically, is a true gift to the theater community and Broadway lovers everywhere.”
In referring to the tragic story of original film director Adrienne Shelly, and the fervent fan-base the musical had accumulated, Fried stated the musical capture was “a dynamically shot recreation of an already emotionally rapturous show – and it only feels more momentous.” While noting the film “certainly isn’t challenging the form,” Fried praised it for using “a number of cinematic techniques to add new dimension to specific scenes: slow motion, superimposition, and even the occasional unbroken long take,” and for the camera’s ability to “elevate” the intimate scene.
Fried summarized, “Having both the language of cinema and theater coalesce in this way is a treat for fans of both mediums, but never distracts to the point that any person in one camp may be confused by the other.”
Writing for Deadline, Damon Wise felt Brett Sullivan’s film direction was akin to Spike Lee’s direction for American Utopia “consolidating the idea of live theater as something to participate in as much as be seen,” and that stated that “the production ebbs and flows quite nicely.”
Allegra Frank, writing for The Daily Beast, felt that the capture of Waitress was “uneven,” though also noted “It will help more people see this wonderful piece of musical theater.”
On Twitter, Theatrely editor-in-chief Kobi Kassal claimed that Waitress was a “breathtakingly stunning capture of the beloved musical. The best proshot I have ever seen.” Film critic Ileana Melendez tweeted Waitress “is magical in every way. There is a lot of care put into this proshot of the original production, giving even lucky viewers of the live show a more intimate perspective of the characters on stage.”
In early September 2023, it was announced that independent film company Bleecker Street Media had acquired the film rights for Waitress. Shortly after, another release shared that in partnership with Fathom Events, Waitress would be released in cinemas across on the United States on December 7, 2023.
Waitress was released in cinemas via Fathom Events across the United States between December 7-11, 2023. Following high demand, the screenings were extended until December 21, 2023.
Writing for The New York Times, Elisabeth Vincetelli felt that the story did not hold up as well on screen as on stage, but felt the film was an excellent showcase for "Bareilles’s enduring wonder of a score," and that Bareilles herself "provides a warm anchor for the movie." Vincetelli concluded, "Thanks to [Bareilles], this second helping goes down easy." In a positive review for Collider, Tania Hussain agreed Bareilles was the stand-out of the film noting "Bareilles’ heart glows in every scene as the small-town dreamer, Jenna Hunterson." Hussain also gave praise to Brett Sullivan's film direction, stating the camera brings "audiences very close to Jenna through an intimate framework that illuminates her vulnerability with tight shots."
On June 20, 2024, Waitress was released in cinemas across the UK. In late August 2024, the capture was made available to stream on several platforms including Amazon and Apple TV, and also for purchase on Blu-Ray and DVD.
In July 2024, PBS announced that Waitress would air on Great Performances on November 15, and would also be available to stream via the PBS app and website. Less than a month later, Playbill shared that the airing was canceled "due to unforeseen contractual circumstances."
Waitress is currently widely available to stream via Amazon and Apple TV, and for purchase on Blu-Ray, and DVD.
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Fried summarized, “Having both the language of cinema and theater coalesce in this way is a treat for fans of both mediums, but never distracts to the point that any person in one camp may be confused by the other.”
Writing for Deadline, Damon Wise felt Brett Sullivan’s film direction was akin to Spike Lee’s direction for American Utopia “consolidating the idea of live theater as something to participate in as much as be seen,” and that stated that “the production ebbs and flows quite nicely.”
Allegra Frank, writing for The Daily Beast, felt that the capture of Waitress was “uneven,” though also noted “It will help more people see this wonderful piece of musical theater.”
On Twitter, Theatrely editor-in-chief Kobi Kassal claimed that Waitress was a “breathtakingly stunning capture of the beloved musical. The best proshot I have ever seen.” Film critic Ileana Melendez tweeted Waitress “is magical in every way. There is a lot of care put into this proshot of the original production, giving even lucky viewers of the live show a more intimate perspective of the characters on stage.”
In early September 2023, it was announced that independent film company Bleecker Street Media had acquired the film rights for Waitress. Shortly after, another release shared that in partnership with Fathom Events, Waitress would be released in cinemas across on the United States on December 7, 2023.
Waitress was released in cinemas via Fathom Events across the United States between December 7-11, 2023. Following high demand, the screenings were extended until December 21, 2023.
Writing for The New York Times, Elisabeth Vincetelli felt that the story did not hold up as well on screen as on stage, but felt the film was an excellent showcase for "Bareilles’s enduring wonder of a score," and that Bareilles herself "provides a warm anchor for the movie." Vincetelli concluded, "Thanks to [Bareilles], this second helping goes down easy." In a positive review for Collider, Tania Hussain agreed Bareilles was the stand-out of the film noting "Bareilles’ heart glows in every scene as the small-town dreamer, Jenna Hunterson." Hussain also gave praise to Brett Sullivan's film direction, stating the camera brings "audiences very close to Jenna through an intimate framework that illuminates her vulnerability with tight shots."
On June 20, 2024, Waitress was released in cinemas across the UK. In late August 2024, the capture was made available to stream on several platforms including Amazon and Apple TV, and also for purchase on Blu-Ray and DVD.
In July 2024, PBS announced that Waitress would air on Great Performances on November 15, and would also be available to stream via the PBS app and website. Less than a month later, Playbill shared that the airing was canceled "due to unforeseen contractual circumstances."
Waitress is currently widely available to stream via Amazon and Apple TV, and for purchase on Blu-Ray, and DVD.
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Production Credits
Theatre: Ethel Barrymore Theatre, NYC
Executive Producer: Alecia Parker
Stage Producer: Barry & Fran Weissler, Norton and Elayne Herrick, David I. Berley, Independent Presenters Network, A.C. Orange International, Peter May, Michael Roiff, Ken Schur, Marisa Sechrest, Jam theatricals, 42nd.club/Square 1 Theatrics, Benjamin Simpson & Joseph Longthorne/Shira Friedman, The American Repertory Theater, Alecia Parker (Executive Producer), Brett England (Associate Producer)
Film Producer: Michael Roiff, Barry & Fran Weissler, Sara Bareilles, Jessie Nelson, Paul Morphos,
Book: Jessie Nelson, based on the screenplay by Adrienne Shelly
Music and Lyrics: Sara Bareilles
Director: Diane Paulus, Film: Brett Sullivan
Music Supervisor & Arrangements: Nadia DiGiallonardo
Orchestrations: The Waitress Band
Choreography: Lorin Latarro
Scenic Design: Scott Pask
Costume Design: Suttirat Larlarb
Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind
Sound Design: Jonathan Deans
Cast:
Sara Bareilles (Jenna)
Charity Angél Dawson (Becky)
Caitlin Houlahan (Dawn)
Drew Gehling (Dr. Pomatter)
Dakin Matthews (Joe)
Eric Anderson (Cal)
Joe Tippett
Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie)
Anastacia McCleskey (Nurse Norma)
Tyrone Davis Jr. (Ensemble)
Matt Deangelis (Ensemble)
Andrew Fitch (Ensemble)
Henry Gottfried (Ensemble)
Molly Jobe (Mother)
Emily Koch (Ensemble)
Max Kumangai (Ensemble)
Stephanie Torns (Francine)
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Executive Producer: Alecia Parker
Stage Producer: Barry & Fran Weissler, Norton and Elayne Herrick, David I. Berley, Independent Presenters Network, A.C. Orange International, Peter May, Michael Roiff, Ken Schur, Marisa Sechrest, Jam theatricals, 42nd.club/Square 1 Theatrics, Benjamin Simpson & Joseph Longthorne/Shira Friedman, The American Repertory Theater, Alecia Parker (Executive Producer), Brett England (Associate Producer)
Film Producer: Michael Roiff, Barry & Fran Weissler, Sara Bareilles, Jessie Nelson, Paul Morphos,
Book: Jessie Nelson, based on the screenplay by Adrienne Shelly
Music and Lyrics: Sara Bareilles
Director: Diane Paulus, Film: Brett Sullivan
Music Supervisor & Arrangements: Nadia DiGiallonardo
Orchestrations: The Waitress Band
Choreography: Lorin Latarro
Scenic Design: Scott Pask
Costume Design: Suttirat Larlarb
Lighting Design: Christopher Akerlind
Sound Design: Jonathan Deans
Cast:
Sara Bareilles (Jenna)
Charity Angél Dawson (Becky)
Caitlin Houlahan (Dawn)
Drew Gehling (Dr. Pomatter)
Dakin Matthews (Joe)
Eric Anderson (Cal)
Joe Tippett
Christopher Fitzgerald (Ogie)
Anastacia McCleskey (Nurse Norma)
Tyrone Davis Jr. (Ensemble)
Matt Deangelis (Ensemble)
Andrew Fitch (Ensemble)
Henry Gottfried (Ensemble)
Molly Jobe (Mother)
Emily Koch (Ensemble)
Max Kumangai (Ensemble)
Stephanie Torns (Francine)
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Sources
Books
Articles
Websites
Other
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- American Repertory Theater, Waitress Program, Accessed via: https://issuu.com/americanrep/docs/waitress_program/1
Articles
- Alex Beggs, “This 'Pie Consultant' Has the Best Job Ever,” Bon Appétit (May 4, 2016)
- Michael Billington, “Waitress review – bittersweet Broadway musical served warm in the West End,” The Guardian (March 7, 2019)
- David Carr, “Sundance: A bittersweet victory for indie film,” New York Times (Jan 19, 2007)
- Susannah Clapp, “The week in theatre: Betrayal; Waitress – review,” The Guardian (March 16, 2019)
- David Cote, “Waitress,” Time Out (July 7, 2021)
- Luke Dawe, “'Waitress' Musical Makes History as First Tribeca Premiere to Screen in Times Square,” Collider (June 2, 2023)
- Gabrielle Debinski, “‘Waitress’ to Close in January 2020,” New York Times (July 16, 2019)
- Joe Dziemianowicz, “Jessie Mueller's star turn is baked to perfection in 'Waitress' ,” New York Daily News (April 24, 2016)
- Allegra Frank, “The Sara Bareilles ‘Waitress’ Movie Makes You Wish You Saw the ‘Waitress’ Musical,” The Daily Beast (June 16, 2023)
- Larry Fried, “‘Waitress, The Musical – Live on Broadway!’ Review: Sara Bareilles’ Hit Musical Has Been Baked To Perfection [Tribeca 2023],” Geek Vibes Nation (June 14, 2023)
- Andrew Gans, "Filmed Version of Waitress, Starring Sara Bareilles, Will Air on PBS," Playbill (July 15, 2024)
- Andrew Gans, "PBS Cancels Broadcast of Filmed Version of Waitress," Playbill (Aug 2, 2024)
- Patrick Healy, “From Carole King to a “Waitress:” Jessie Mueller Takes on a New Musical,” Arts Beat: New York Times Blog (Nov 27, 2014)
- Caitlin Hornik, "Sara Bareilles-Led Waitress Live Capture to be Released Nationwide," Broadway.com (Sept 7, 2023)
- Adrian Horton, “‘She’s more than just a murder victim’: the life and death of film-maker Adrienne Shelly,” The Guardian (Dec 1, 2021)
- Tania Hussain, "'Waitress: The Musical' Review: Sara Bareilles Revitalizes Acclaimed Show," Collider (Dec 7, 2023)
- Caitlin Huston, Katie Kilkenny, “Actors’ Equity Expands ‘Waitress’ Unionizing Fight to Entire Broadway Touring Industry (Exclusive),” The Hollywood Reporter (May 5, 2022)
- Caitlin Huston, "Sara Bareilles Musical ‘Waitress’ Acquired By Bleecker Street," The Hollywood Reporter (Sept 6, 2023)
- Blair Ingenthron, "WAITRESS Film Will Be Available for Streaming and VOD," BroadwayWorld (Dec 9, 2023)
- Charles Isherwood, “Review: Jessie Mueller Serves a Slice of Life (With Pie) in Sara Bareilles’s ‘Waitress’,” New York Times (April 24, 2016)
- Ashley Lee, "Commentary: Broadway hasn’t always shown up for female fans. A surprise smash proved their power," Los Angeles Times (Nov 29, 2023)
- Annie Levin, “Non-Equity ‘Waitress’ Musical Tour Files for Union Recognition,” Observer (April 26, 2022)
- Diana Lodderhose, "Bleecker Street Picks Up U.S. Rights To ‘Waitress: The Musical’ & Sets Nationwide Release Date," Deadline (Sept 6, 2023)
- Jason Lymangrover, “Sara Bareilles: Full Biography,” VH1 (c.2012)
- Tulis McCall, “Waitress,” New York Theatre Guide (Jan 25, 2022; originally published Sept 22, 2017)
- Lorne Manly, “‘Waitress’ Musical Sets the Table for Broadway,” New York Times (Aug 13, 2015)
- Julia Moskin, “Looking for Solace in a Slice of Pie,” New York Times (April 18, 2007)
- Michael Paulson, “Actors in ‘Waitress’ Tour Seek to Join Labor Union,” New York Times (April 12, 2022)
- Michael Paulson, “Equity Drops ‘Waitress’ Unionization Effort and Files Grievance,” New York Times (May 5, 2022)
- Maria Pasquini, and Gabrielle Chung “Broadway Star Nick Cordero Dies at 41 After Over 90 Days in Hospital from Coronavirus Complications,” People (July 5, 2020)
- David Rooney, “‘Waitress’: Theater Review,” The Hollywood Reporter (April 24, 2016)
- Gillian Russo, “Everything you need to know about ‘Waitress’ on Broadway,” New York Theatre Guide (Jan 10, 2023)
- Gillian Russo, “‘Waitress’ company pays tribute to Nick Cordero on opening night,” New York Theatre Guide (Feb 16, 2022)
- Patrick Ryan, “'Smile, baby girl': Sara Bareilles reflects on 'Waitress' journey from Broadway to the big screen,” USA Today, (June 12, 2023)
- A.O. Scott, “Movie Minutes: Waitress,” New York Times (May 2, 2007)
- Mark Snetiker, “Sara Bareilles to Score New Musical Adaptation of Waitress, Directed by Diane Paulus,” Broadway.com (June 9, 2013)
- Marilyn Stasio, “Broadway Review: ‘Waitress’ The Musical,” Variety (April 24, 2016)
- Elisabeth Vincentelli, “Women songwriters like Sara Bareilles are owning Broadway,” NY Post (April 24, 2016)
- Elisabeth Vincentelli, "‘Waitress: The Musical’ Review: A Big-Screen Helping of a Broadway Hit," New York Times (Dec 7, 2023)
- Damon Wise, “‘Waitress, The Musical – Live on Broadway!’ Review: A Heartfelt Reimagining Of Adrienne Shelly’s Indie Swan Song – Tribeca Festival,” Deadline (June 14, 2023)
- Alex Wood, "Waitress musical movie released on UK streaming platforms," Whats On Stage (August 27, 2024)
- Laura Zornosa, “‘Waitress’ Is Returning to Broadway. So Is Sara Bareilles,” New York Times (Aug 24, 2021)
Websites
- American Repertory Theater, “Waitress,” Accessed via: https://americanrepertorytheater.org/shows-events/waitress/
- IBDb, “Waitress,” Accessed via: https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/waitress-531975#People
- IBDb, “Waitress: Tour,” Accessed via: https://www.ibdb.com/tour-production/waitress-514071#OpeningNightCast
- IMDb, “Waitress: 2023,” Accessed via: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15477042/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3_tt_8_nm_0_q_waitress
- Music theatre International, “Waitress,” Accessed via: https://www.mtishows.com/waitress
- Playbill, “Waitress: Broadway | Musical | Original,” Accessed via: https://www.playbill.com/production/waitress-brooks-atkinson-theatre-vault-0000014142
- Playbill, “Waitress - Cast,” Accessed via: https://www.playbill.com/personlistpage/person-list?production=00000151-b783-d86d-a375-ffc779cc0000&type=op#cc
- Playbill, “Waitress: Broadway | Musical | Revival,” Accessed via: https://www.playbill.com/production/waitress-ethel-barrymore-2021-2022
- Tribeca Film Festival, “Waitress, The Musical - Live on Broadway!” Accessed via: https://tribecafilm.com/films/waitress-the-musical-live-on-broadway-2023
Other
- Twitter, @kkassal (Kobi Kassal), “.@WaitressMusical is a breathtakingly stunning capture of the beloved musical. The best proshot I have ever seen and the audience at this world premiere was as energetic as the crowd at Wicked’s first performance back. Excited to see where this film lands. @Tribeca #Tribeca2023” (June 12, 2023), Accessed via: https://twitter.com/kkassal/status/1668449371183108097
- Twitter, @CaptainMelendez (Ileana Melendez), “WAITRESS, THE MUSICAL - LIVE ON BROADWAY! is magical in every way. There is a lot of care put into this proshot of the original production, giving even lucky viewers of the live show a more intimate perspective of the characters on stage. Sara Bareilles is a DREAM #Tribeca2023," (June 13, 2023), Accessed via: https://twitter.com/CaptainMelendez/status/1668640531742613504
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Written by Luisa Lyons (July, 2023; updated December 2023, August 2024)