Directed by Tony winner Diane Paulus with choreography by Chase Brock, the cast is led by Tony winner Jessie Mueller as Jenna, Jeanna de Waal as Dawn, Drew Gehling as Dr. Pomatter, Dakin Matthews as Joe, Keala Settle as Becky, Eric Anderson as Cal, Jeremy Morse as Ogie and and Joe Tippett as Earl.
Ensemble members are Charity Angel Dawson, David Jennings, Corey Mach, Ragan Pharris, Cullen R. Titmas and Stephanie Torns.
Based on the motion picture written by Adrienne Shelly, the new musical has a book by Jessie Nelson and music and lyrics by Grammy winner Bareilles. Rehearsals began June 22. Tickets are currently available by visiting americanrepertorytheater.org/waitress. The creative team also includes set design by Scott Pask, costumes by Suttirat Larlarb, lighting by Ken Posner and sound by Jonathan Deans. Casting is by Telsey & Company.
Waitress, according to press notes, concerns "Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, [who] is stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. When a baking contest in a nearby county offers her a chance at escape, Jenna must weigh her commitments against a rare shot at freedom and recognition. Her customers, co-workers, and the town’s handsome new doctor all offer her conflicting recipes for happiness — but Jenna must ultimately decide for herself."
Loeb Drama Center is located at 64 Brattle Street in Cambridge.
ART has posted the first sizzle video from the production. It features Mueller, Settle, and other cast members, plus director Diane Paulus, at rehearsals.
Titled "Waitress: A First Look," the video is currently available only on Facebook.
