Waitress - New Wimbledon Theatre

Many a time has this reviewer been lucky enough to witness a famous classic musical for the first time. You know, those shows everyone raves about for years on end and you just can’t seem to fit into your schedule? Waitress is one of those shows for this reviewer.

When I started reviewing in the summer of 2023, this show was just finishing a successful UK and Ireland tour (if I remember correctly). Never to be seen again. And yet, rumours of a much anticipated return filled stage door crowds and the social media community. So, I waited patiently for its return: trying my very best to limit my exposure to the material until then. Tonight, I saw that little bundle of joy and could not be happier that this moment had finally arrived. I was not disappointed.

Matt Crockett

This show follows the story of pie-baking prodigy Jenna, a waitress in a small pie diner, as she unexpectedly becomes pregnant. Jenna’s life is filled with terrible heartache, but this new adventure may just be the blessing she never imagined. Alongside her colleagues and chosen sisters, Becky and Dawn, Jenna learns to take back control of her life and turns it into something sweet and beautiful.

For its 10th Anniversary celebration, Waitress returns with another tour starring Carrie Hope Fletcher in the leading role of Jenna. Having seen Fletcher on stage in last year’s Calamity Jane, I had no doubt that she would fit this role perfectly. And sure enough, Fletcher delivered a performance worthy of every award. It’s definitely the role of a lifetime for this incredible actress - one we will all treasure dearly for years to come.

Opposite Fletcher are the sensational Sandra Marvin (Becky) and Evelyn Hoskins (Dawn) - both reprising their former roles for this tour. Their performance grounded the message this show embodies, how sisterhood is so much stronger than any horrible trials life may throw your way. Dan Partridge as the charming Dr Pomatter delivered a compelling performance, drawing on the character’s humour to lessen some of the tensions of the storyline, whilst considering the more serious side of his personality with incredible versatility.

Matt Crockett

Waitress is first and foremost a story about women taking back control. It’s a stunning tale of love and friendship, in all of its forms and glory. It is subtle in its message, whilst being perfectly clear about its intent. Although the show boasts incredible male characters, it is very clearly driven by its women, whilst most stories do the very opposite. The book by Jessie Nelson balances humour, heartache and hope like no other. And its score by Sara Bareilles is no different - drawing tears and laughs from its audiences with a single melody.

Very rarely does this reviewer proudly name an ensemble character, but this one deserves all the praise. Ellie Ruiz Rodriguez as Nurse Norma delivered a hilariously engaging performance, making the audience laugh with a single eyebrow raise. Her stage presence needs to be commanded and rightfully applauded.

This show did not disappoint in the least, and to be quite truthful, it may have made this reviewer’s list of all time favourites. It can be witty, charming and heartbreaking all in one fell swoop. No wonder it has been such a smashing success. I wish this cast and troupe all the best on this journey, it is bound to be one for the ages.

Production Value: 90%

Value for Money: 90%

Personal Enjoyment: 90%

Overall Score: 90% - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)

(AD | Ticket gifted in exchange for an honest review)

Show Information

Venue: New Wimbledon Theatre, London

Playing until: 4th April 2026 before setting off to its next venue

Run Time: Approximately 2h20 - including a 20-minute interval

Tickets for this show can be found at this link.