Review: Waitress the Musical at the Bord Gaìs energy Theatre

Photo taken by Johan Persson

Star rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

The feel-good musical Waitress delivers a delicious slice of theater, served with an incredible cast and an unforgettable score. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the hit musical, and it is hard to believe it has already been a decade since it first captured hearts on Broadway and in London’s West End.

After a three-year absence, Waitress is finally making its highly anticipated return with a UK and Ireland tour. The production opened in New Wimbledon early this year, and now the time has come for Ireland to experience the iconic "sugar, butter, flour" show, celebrating its Irish press night at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre on May 19th.

Based on the beloved 2007 independent film, this hit musical is brought to life by a groundbreaking, female-led creative team. It features an exemplary book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson, brilliant songs written by Grammy Award-winning Sara Bareilles, with direction by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus and choreography by Lorin Latarro.

The Recipe for a Fresh Start

The musical follows pie-maker Jenna Hunterson (played by Carrie Hope Fletcher), who is trapped in an abusive marriage with her husband Earl (Mark Willshire). Jenna has a rare talent for turning her life's trials into uniquely flavored, delicious pies. When she finds out she is pregnant, her world completely changes as she goes to her first appointment and falls for the charming, newcomer, Dr. Pomatter (Dan Partridge).

Stuck in a cycle of discontent but dreaming of one day owning her own diner, Jenna is helped by her close friends Becky and Dawn (Sandra Marvin and Evelyn Hoskins) to realize her true potential. Along the way, we also meet the eccentric Ogie (Mark Anderson) and the grumpy diner owner Old Joe (Les Dennis).

Will a grand baking contest, a hidden romance with Dr. Pomatter, and the support of her friends be Jenna's recipe for a fresh start?

Inside Jenna's Head

An incredible feature of this production is how it switches between the real scenes in the diner and Jenna’s "bubble," where we get to look straight into her head to see what she is thinking. The way these transitions are executed on stage is absolutely brilliant and gives the audience a perfect look at her inner thoughts.

Audiences familiar with the show might notice one big change at the end of the show. Normally we meet Lulu, Jenna’s daughter. However, because this is a touring production and the evening shows run quite late, they are not including a young child in every performance. This practical choice allows the production to navigate performance regulations without having to cast multiple local children for just a brief appearance during a short run.

A Standout Performance and Sensational Score

Finally, the main cast is supported by an incredible ensemble that definitely adds an extra sparkle to the show. Their movements in certain scenes are so precise and effortless that they are an absolute joy to watch.

Throughout the story, we are treated to incredible, songs like "She Used to Be Mine," "What Baking Can Do," and many more. Pairing Jessie Nelson’s script with Sara Bareilles’ award-winning music makes this show a real treat. Waitress remains a sweet, funny, and deeply moving celebration of friendship, motherhood, and finding the courage to start fresh.

More information about other venues can be found here.