‘Waitress’ entertains many Jacksonville, Florida showgoers

“Waitress” tells a story of redemption, recovery, forbidden love and a reward for doing the right thing in the end.  The house was packed on the third night of the stage show in JAX.  Young and mature were in their seats as they enjoyed the scenery changes, vocals, and an evening of Broadway in Florida.  If you’ve never seen the movie or the musical, you’re in for an eye-opening experience.

Situations happen to us every day and sometimes we’re left to “look for love in all the wrong places”, yet, a moment of indiscretion, like that in “Waitress”, led to a life of joy, and fulfillment in the end, as things are turned around for the good.  People may treat you rotten, yet if you put your trust in God and believe that He is the master of this universe, then things may change for the better.

The actors who stood out to this writer were Ogie (Jeremy Morse) and Dawn (Ephie Aardema) who played a couple that would remind you of a Saturday Night Live cast.  Also, the other two waitresses: Jenna (Christine Dwyer) and Becky (Maiesha McQueen) harmonized beautifully in each musical rendition that they performed.  Joe (Richard Kline) appeared to be a little cantankerous and demanding at first, but in the end, he came through for Jenna and her daughter.  Earl (Matt DeAngelis) is a great antagonist and someone you will like to dislike.  The entire cast is to be commended for a job well done.

There was a wonderful live band of 6 team members who quite cleverly blended into the background of ‘Joe’s Diner’.  Accolades go out to Robert Cookman - director and keyboardist; Lilli Wosk - conductor and pianist; Tom Jorgenson on drums; Lexi Bodick on bass; Nick Anton - Cello/Guitar; Ed Hamilton on Guitar and under the coordination of John Miller.  It’s always a pleasure to experience live music during a musical, and the melodious genius of “Waitress” did not disappoint.

“Waitress” will be in Jax for one more day and you can check HERE to see when this production will be in an area near you.

About the show: Inspired by Adrienne Shelley’s beloved film that came out in 2007, the musical tells the story of Jenna – a waitress and expert pie maker, Jenna dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage.  A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness.  But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life.

“WAITRESS”
DATES:      TIMES:
Sat. Mar. 16    2 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Sun. Mar. 17     1:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Times Union Center Performing Arts
       Moran Theater
       300 West Water St.
       Jacksonville, FL 32202

TICKETS: (Vary) and start at $42.  They may be purchased at the box office from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, by calling (904) 632-5000, or online 24/7.  Discounts for groups of 10+ may be available by calling (904) 632-5050.  Performance schedule, prices and cast are subject to change without notice.