Review: Waitress

Hey readers!
It's time for my review of Waitress.
Waitress tells the story of Jenna Hunterson, a waitress who is in an unhappy marriage to her husband Earl. When she unexpectedly discovers she is pregnant, she starts an affair with her gynaecologist and begins to look for ways out of her abusive relationship, embracing her unique pie-making skills as a chance for a new life. I first saw Waitress on Broadway in 2016 and adored it, so I jumped at the opportunity to see it in its West End transfer.

Waitress has a very heartwarming story to it. The character of Jenna has had a somewhat troubled upbringing and is stuck in a loveless marriage, and the audience are left rooting for her right up until the very end. Jenna's courage and perseverance in life is inspiring, and that, speaking personally, is what makes the story of Waitress so special. The show toys with what is perceived as being morally good, due to the fact that one of the central plot points revolves around an extra-marital affair. Whilst the affair should not be taking place, many are left actually wanting this couple to succeed. Therefore, Waitress is written in a way that could even make us question what is right and wrong. The book, written by Jessie Nelson, is undoubtedly very well written.

The score of Waitress, written by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, is equally as excellent. Throughout the past three years I have listened to the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Waitress on numerous occasions and I still thoroughly enjoy it. There are a number of catchy tunes as well as beautifully written ballads; the score is well and truly exceptional. A few of my personal favourites include 'What Baking Can Do', 'You Matter to Me', 'She Used to Be Mine' and 'Everything Changes'.

In February 2018, former Pop Idol contestant Katharine McPhee joined the Broadway production of Waitress, taking on the role of Jenna. A year after her introduction to the show, she is now originating the role in London's West End. Katharine McPhee is perfectly cast in this role; she is true perfection. In preparation for this role, McPhee went on a month-long vocal rest, and it is clear that this has paid off as her voice was beyond outstanding. Her vocal range is exceptional, and this is quite evident during 'She Used to Be Mine'. Additionally, her acting abilities are also very good and her chemistry with David Hunter is electric. David  Hunter's performance of Dr. Pomatter was, for me, the overall highlight of the show. His portrayal was just as good as Original Broadway Cast Member Drew Gehling, if not better. Hunter has found a lot of comedy in this role, and there is no doubt that his comic timing is impeccable. To say that he had the audience in stitches would be an understatement. He also excels at the more serious side to the character, which we see during the number 'You Matter to Me'. Marisha Wallace, as Dawn, was also brilliant. Her big number of 'I Didn't Plan It' brought down the house and allowed Wallace to present her superlative voice. She has a larger than life stage presence, which is much needed for this particular role. Laura Baldwin, as Dawn, also gives an admirable performance and gave an all-round wonderful performance. Sadly though, Jack McBrayer as Dawn's partner Ogie, does not quite match the abilities of Baldwin. McBrayer appears to be a talented actor, but in this role he did appear to be somewhat miscast. The role of Ogie requires an actor with show-stopping abilities, and sadly McBrayer did not quite pull this off. Sean Prendergast, as Joe, was magnificent. His rendition of 'Take It From an Old Man' was tremendous. A special mention should also be awarded to Peter Hannah, as Earl, who created the perfect characterisation.

Now for my final verdict on Waitress. I give Waitress...

Waitress is an inspiring tale with an outstanding score, and the sublime performances of Katharine McPhee and David Hunter are worth the ticket price alone.

Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.

Thanks for reading!

-The Reviewer