Review of Waitress

May 10, 2016 
By Leonard Golubchck, LaborPress Entertainment Editor

New York, NY – “Waitress” the musical is singer-songwriter’s Sara Barelles debut as a composer and lyricist which is based upon the Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 film. The musical stars Jesse Mueller (Beautiful: The Carole King musical)   and is expertly directed by Diane Paulus.

Waitress tells the story of Jenna ( Jesse Mueller) a maker extraordinaire. She gets pregnant and falls in love with her Gynecologist. her abusive husband is played by Nick Cordero and her love interest is played by Drew Gehling. Her friends at Joe’s Pie Diner are portrayed by Keala Settle and Kimiko Glenn.

The book is weak and is quite predictable. The music and lyrics are tepid and unmemorable.

On the other hand, Jesse Mueller carries the show and is excellent and her performance transcends the shows mediocrity.

You can have dessert in the theater since slices of pie are sold before the show and at intermission.

At least there is the possibility of something sweet to wet one’s whistle.