Waitress

Sara Bareilles & Jessie Nelson’s
Waitress

Hormel Theatre
Phoenix, AZ

September 2024

Directed by Chanel Bragg
Choreography by Michelle Chin
Music Direction by Kevin Robert White
Scenic Design by Josafath Reynoso
Costume Design by Adriana Diaz
Lighting Design by Amina Alexander
Sound Design by Dave Temby
Stage Manager: Sam Monson

Produced by The Phoenix Theatre Company

Photo Credit: Brennen Russell

Waitress follows the story of Jenna Hunterson, a waitress and pie maker in a small town who is stuck in an unhappy marriage to her controlling husband, Earl. Jenna dreams of escaping her life and starts saving money to enter a pie-baking contest that could provide her with a fresh start.

Things become more complicated when Jenna finds out she’s unexpectedly pregnant. At the same time, she begins an affair with her new doctor, Dr. Jim Pomatter, who is also married. With the support of her fellow waitresses, Becky and Dawn, Jenna navigates her complicated relationships and starts to realize her own worth. She eventually decides to take control of her life and finds a way to create a future for herself and her child.

The musical is known for its heartfelt story, humor, and original music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles. The central themes include empowerment, self-discovery, and the power of friendship.