Looking for a fun grown-up night out? “Waitress” at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre is just what the doctor ordered — with a generous serving of humor, heart, and heavenly harmonies. My husband and I recently enjoyed a date night to see this Broadway musical, one of my favorites!
This warm, witty show — featuring music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles — was inspired by the late Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 indie film and was nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The Beef & Boards production is directed and choreographed by Stephanie Torns, who performed in the original Broadway cast of “Waitress” herself.
Note for parents: “Waitress” is rated PG-13 due to adult themes and language.
At the heart of the story is Jenna, a small-town waitress with a gift for baking pies that tell stories — and a yearning for a new beginning. I loved how Keirsten Hodgens took on the vulnerable role with a powerhouse voice that soars in the show’s signature number, “She Used to Be Mine.” Her performance was stunning; when she hit that final note, the audience erupted in well-earned applause.
Noah Berry is charming as Dr. Pomatter, and I LOVED his clear, tenor voice. During duets with Hodgens like “It Only Takes a Taste” and “You Matter to Me, their voices blend beautifully — a musical highlight of the night.
Chanel Edwards-Frederick served up laughs and heart as Becky, Jenna’s sassy and strong-willed co-worker. Her comedic timing and powerful vocals were spot-on. Grace Atherholt steals scenes as Dawn, the shy, quirky, history-loving waitress longing to find love. One of the most moving moments of the show comes when the three waitresses join forces to bake up the perfect pie in “A Soft Place to Land.” The harmonies were so gorgeous, I had chills!
(Personal note: As someone currently launching a book about burnout recovery, I found that line — “When your breaking point’s all that you have, a dream is a soft place to land” — really hit me. Isn’t that exactly what we all need sometimes?)
Of course, no musical comedy is complete without an off-the-wall character or plot twist, and Brett Mutter delivers as Dawn’s neurotic suitor, Ogie. His physical comedy brought the house down — literally! At one point, he plopped into a chair so aggressively that it actually splintered on stage, sending him crashing to the floor! Mutter made an in-character joke out of it, and the cast somehow recovered their composure — a testament to their professionalism, I’m not sure I could have kept the scene going as well as they did! The supporting cast is also strong. Logan Moore balances menace and humor as Earl, Jenna’s abusive and often drunk husband. Douglas E. Stark is funny and lovable as Joe, the diner’s often off-color owner, while Adam du Plessis brings dry humor and a surprise twist to the role of Cal, the diner manager.
Beef & Boards delivers another winning performance — with a delicious dinner buffet, heartfelt storytelling, gorgeous music and a stage full of talent. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the show or new to its magic, “Waitress” serves up the perfect recipe for an unforgettable evening.
For tickets and showtimes visit beefandboards.com.
