Review: Waitress

Ashlie Corcoran has once again delivered an exceptional direction for the acclaimed Broadway musical Waitress! Based on the 2007 film by Adrienne Shelly, it runs from June 12 to August 3 at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. The show feels incredibly real, relatable, and empowering. It will evoke strong emotions, make you laugh, and might even leave you craving a piece of pie!

The story centers on Jenna (Rachel Drance), a lively and resilient waitress and pie baker from a small Southern town, who is trapped in an unloving and abusive marriage, and unexpectedly becomes pregnant. She views a baking contest as an escape and hopes to transform her life with the prize money.

The show combines humour, heart, and depth, exploring themes such as female empowerment, motherhood, and self-discovery.

What struck me the most were the intense scenes between Jenna and her abusive husband, Earl (Jacob Woike). The acting was so impressive that I even felt the fiery intensity. The fear shown by Jenna was very apparent while she was enduring Earl’s menacing and aggressive aura. It’s the type of acting that would raise your heart rate and have you on the edge of your seat.

Jenna’s close friends, waitresses Dawn (Sarah Cantuba) and Becky (Ashanti J’Aria), brought humour and brightness to the show. Their unwavering support for each other was inspiring and a joy to witness.

Cory Sincennes’ set design evoked a cozy, vintage atmosphere. While visually appealing, I occasionally wondered about the musical’s time period. The outfits suggested the 70s, but when Earl brought out his camcorder to record his daughter’s birth, it caused some confusion. That was the only flaw I noticed during the show.

The musical featured a live pit band conducted by Caitlin Hayes. The songs, composed by Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter and actor Sara Bareilles, were very charming and catchy.

I wouldn’t recommend the musical for younger audiences because of the mature themes, such as infidelity and an abusive relationship.

Overall, Waitress is a beautifully crafted and delightful musical that combines humour, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable songs. You’re sure to leave the show feeling inspired and empowered. 

Rating: 5/5

Date watched: July 4th, 2025

Location: Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage, Vancouver BC