Theater Review: 'Waitress' at A.C.T. of CT

Review by Nancy Sasso Janis

“Waitress The Musical” concludes the seventh season at A.C.T. (A Contemporary Theatre) of Connecticut in Ridgefield. This quirky and ambitious musical features wonderful music and lyrics by Sara Barreilles and a book by Jessie Nelson that is faithfully based on the 2007 film written and directed by the late Adrienne Shelly. “Waitress” opened on Broadway in 2016 and returned for a limited engagement in 2021 as part of efforts to reopen Broadway after the pandemic shutdown, and mainly to produce a live stage recording released to movie theaters in 2023. The remounting starred Bareilles in the title role.

In the film version, Keri Russell starred as a young waitress and talented pie maker who is trapped in a small Southern town and an abusive marriage and unexpectedly faces an unwanted pregnancy. Artistic Director Daniel C. Levine calls the musical “a show that blends heart and humor, sorrow and sweetness,” and the “perfect ‘final course’ to close out A.C.T.’s season.

Only a few minor details have been changed for the musical version, while some characters have been given more to do. In the A.C.T. production, there are also some cheeky references to the state of Connecticut thrown in, much to the delight of the audience.

Sara Brians directed the well-paced production. She also provided the stylized choreography for the members of the ensemble, who move their arms in smooth unison as they get props where they need to be. The choreography was at its best for “Opening Up” and for Ogie’s clunky clogging in “Never Ever Getting Rid of Me.” NYC-based Music Director Nicholas Connors allows the Barreilles music and lyrics to shine throughout the two acts when it is played by the live band (in the offstage “band loft”) that Connors conducts from behind keyboard 1.

Musician/songwriter Abigail Sparrow takes on her dream role of Jenna Hunterson, the waitress whose life is a mess. Sparrow played Sherrie in A.C.T.'s “Rock of Ages” in 2030 and was last seen as an alternate Queen in “SIX The Musical.”

Amma Osei (“Rock of Ages” on Broadway) is memorable in the role of Becky, the waitress with an attitude. Shaylen Harger returns to A.C.T. and is simply adorable as the mousy waitress Dawn. John Alejandro Jeffords does well in the role of Jenna’s fill-in (and handsome) obstetrician Dr. Pomatter.

Jenna’s arrogant husband Earl is brought to life well by Cody Jenkins in his A.C.T. debut. David Sitler makes his A.C.T. debut in the role of the prickly diner customer Joe. Wesley Slade, an improv comedian/puppeteer/voice over actor, is a delight in the role of the quirky Ogie, who falls hard for Dawn.

Joseph Torello, who appeared at Seven Angels Theatre in Waterbury last year (with Swing Raul Calderon) in “Unchained Melodies – The Doo-Wop Musical,” embodies the role of the diner’s loud cook Cal. What a treat to see this talented actor onstage again in his home state.

Young ballerina Maeve Marbury of Ridgefield makes her professional acting debut in the walk-on role of the tiny Lulu. In the ensemble are Tara Forseth (Mother,) Kai Horvit, Lauren Marut, Val Moranto, Jason Ivan Rodriguez, Justin Waite, and Christopher Brian Williams.
CT native Ariana Valdes steps up to bring out the comedy in the role of Nurse Norma.

Costumes designed by Leslie Bernstein gleefully suit the characters, as do the lovely wigs designed by Carissa Thorlakson. The veiled tri-corner hat for Dawn’s wedding was the perfect touch for her colonial gown. The scenic design of Kristen Martino is able to quickly convert from the diner to the doctor’s office and Jenna’s home with large slide-in set pieces.

Lighting by Dalton Hamilton nicely highlights what is important and sound design by Shannon Slaton was seamless. Special “props” to Prop Supervisor Sierra Shepherd for replenishing the real food items needed, as well as the aptly-named pie creations via Skylight Music Theatre and The Cape Playhouse.

Unfortunately, the full run of the musical through June 22 is sold out and has a lengthy waiting list. The musical is rated PG-13 for some language and sexual situations.