There is a phenomenon happening right now in the world of musical theatre. If you are an avid theatergoer, you know exactly what it is. Pop stars are stepping up to take a crack at writing the music for big Broadway shows. Almost everyday, you will read about a new pop star trying their hand at writing the next big splash to visit the Great White Way. Pop sensation Sara Bareilles tries her hand, and succeeds, with “Waitress.”

If there is one thing that can warm you up in Buffalo this February, it’s ‘Waitress.’ Go see this show!

Based on the film by Adrienne Shelly, “Waitress” tells the story of Jenna (Desi Oakley), a pie maker and server at a little diner, who is trying to find an out from her mundane life. She has a marriage that is falling apart, she feels stuck in her small town, and she just wants something more. Jenna’s friends, Becky (Charity Angel Dawson) and Dawn (Lenne Klingman) are there to give Jenna the support she needs, when it is discovered that Jenna is pregnant. Through in a bunch of pie and baking metaphors, and you have a fun musical that will put a smile on your face.

“Waitress” is special not only because a pop star has written the music and lyrics for the show, but because of the all female creative team that worked together to bring this story to the stage. This is an incredibly rare occurrence, and one that I hope continues to occur as time progresses. Bareilles’ score is complemented with a book by Jessie Nelson, and is directed by Diane Paulus. This group of women show that they have exactly what it takes to create a fantastic musical experience.

Going in, I have to be honest, I did not want to like this show. It seemed to me to be a story that I would hear about on Lifetime or Hallmark channel. Quickly, this show shows its true colors. It is full of comedy, physical humor, it’s charming, and possesses great heart. I loved it! I was entertained from the opening number to the final bow.

Leading the show in the role of Jenna is Desi Oakley, who carries this show on her back and does it rightfully so. She is fantastic. Her voice rings throughout the theater as she belts out the lyrics written by Bareilles. Her comedic abilities, and timing is priceless. She will bring a smile to your face, and a song to your heart.

Charity Angél Dawson and Lenne Klingman as Becky and Dawn respectfully, are flat out hysterical. Both of these supporting ladies take their characters, and have no fear at all on stage as they perform. Their artistic choices are highly entertaining, and they keep this production chugging forward.

A crowd pleaser is Jeremy Morse as Ogie. His dancing, physical comedy, facial expressions, and overall demeanor are so powerful, the audience is left breathless from laughter. Every time Morse enters the stage, the audience just waits to see what antics he has cooked up for us. He is comic gold.

The rest of the ensemble in this production assists in telling a wonderful story that you are sure to enjoy.

Scot Pask’s set design is refreshing, simple, and effective, and his incorporation of the orchestra on stage as part of the action is a great addition.

Overall, this production is top notch. If there is one thing that can warm you up in Buffalo this February, it’s ‘Waitress.’ Go see this show!

Running Time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Advisory: Some suggestive content.

“Waitress” runs until February 11, 2018, and is presented at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. For more information, click here.