Empowering musical bringing a slice of pie and copious energy to the stage on tour
Celebrating ten years since it first opened on Broadway, Waitress continues to prove why it has remained such a favourite with audiences. Based on Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 film, with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson, the musical balances humour, romance and difficult subject matter with warmth, underpinned by an empowering story about finding the courage to choose a better future.
At the heart of the production is Jenna, a talented pie maker trapped in an unhappy marriage, brought to life on this tour by Carrie Hope Fletcher. Alongside her are Sandra Marvin as the fiercely loyal Becky and Evelyn Hoskins as the endearingly awkward Dawn, whose friendship with Jenna forms the emotional backbone of the show. Fletcher’s vocals are consistently impressive, particularly during the show’s emotional ballads, where she gives real weight to Jenna’s inner conflict. While some of the score is less immediately memorable than its standout numbers, her performance ensures these moments remain engaging, carrying them with both confidence and sincerity.
The friendships between Jenna, Becky and Dawn are what truly give Waitress its heart. Their unwavering support for one another through failed relationships, difficult decisions and moments of self-doubt creates some of the production’s most touching scenes. Marvin brings warmth and sharp wit to Becky, while Hoskins gives Dawn an endearing awkwardness that makes her journey especially rewarding to watch. Together, the trio’s bond feels entirely believable, encouraging Jenna to step out of the shadows and believe she deserves more from life.
The chemistry across the company is one of the production’s greatest strengths. Relationships feel genuine throughout, allowing both the comedy and drama to land naturally. Mark Anderson is a particular highlight as the eccentric Ogie, delivering a wonderfully funny performance that had the audience laughing throughout his determined courtship of Dawn. His comic timing is superb without ever feeling overplayed, making Ogie an undeniable crowd favourite. That same chemistry extends across the wider cast, creating an infectious energy that had the audience fully invested from start to finish.
The production itself is equally polished. Scene changes are handled smoothly, keeping the story moving at a steady pace. The contrast between Jenna’s cramped, oppressive home and the bright openness of Joe’s Pie Diner is particularly effective, visually reinforcing the different worlds she inhabits. The diner becomes a place of comfort, friendship and possibility, while her home serves as a constant reminder of the life she longs to leave behind.
Although Waitress tackles domestic abuse, unwanted pregnancy and emotional manipulation, it does so with sensitivity, balancing its heavier themes with humour and hope. Bareilles’ score may not be packed with memorable songs from beginning to end, but its emotional honesty, paired with a cast that fully commits to the material, keeps the audience invested throughout.
This touring production is a heartfelt revival of a modern musical that has firmly earned its place in the theatre landscape. With strong performances, slick staging and a genuine celebration of friendship, resilience and self-worth, Waitress continues to serve up a satisfying slice of musical theatre.