‘Waitress‘ Serves up the humor and the heart at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts from now through October 13, 2024.
The company of the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment production of ‘Waitress,’ directed by Abbey O’Brien and now playing at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment have kicked off their 2024-2025 season with a delightful Southern California premiere of ‘Waitress‘. This Broadway hit, featuring a book by Jessie Nelson and music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, serves up a heartwarming mix of humor, emotion, and catchy tunes that will resonate with fans of both the film and the stage musical.
Desi Oakley shines in the role of Jenna, a waitress and skilled pie-maker who dreams of a better life beyond her small town and troubled marriage. Oakley’s performance captures the essence of Jenna’s journey with authenticity and depth, making her struggles and triumphs feel profoundly real. Ben Jacoby, as Dr. James Pomatter, adds a charming, nebbish and supportive presence.
Brian Krinsky’s portrayal of Earl brings complexity to the character’s less-than-ideal husband and a departure from his recent role as Lancelot in ‘Camelot‘, at Laguna Playhouse. Cleavant Derricks is endearing as the curmudgeon, shop owner Joe, who likes to have his tomatoes on different plate, separated from the rest of the meal. Dominique Kent brings a warm, reliable quality to Becky, the voice of reason to Jenna’s dilemma. Brian Calì’s Cal was the straight-man, with a heart, hiding behind his macho exterior, however, like every play or musical there is typically a show stealer and ‘Waitress‘ two in Rianny Vasquez, and Jared Gertner. Dawn (Vasquez), and Ogie (Gertner), respectfully, received the loudest ovations of the night during the final bow. The characters’ not only are the glue that brought the show together, but a foundational post in making the harsh and dismal lives of the protagonist lead, whimsical.
Becky (Dominique Kent), Jenna (Desi Oakley) and Dawn (Rianny Vasquez) star in the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment production of ‘Waitress,’ directed by Abbey O’Brien and now playing at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
Supporting roles are brought to life by Ashley Moniz, who plays Jenna’s Mother and is also part of the Ensemble; Ashley Támar Davis, who hilarious as Nurse Norma and Ensemble; and Johnisa Breault, who appears as Francine and Ensemble. Annabelle Bergold and Layni Rose Cowden share the role of Lulu at different performances, showed hope for the future.
The creative team behind ‘Waitress‘ brings a polished and engaging production to the stage. Abbey O’Brien’s direction ensures a smooth flow and effective storytelling, while Cost n’ Mayor’s choreography injects energy and visual interest into the performance. Jennifer Lin’s musical direction ensures that the show’s musical numbers are performed with precision and flair. Brian Gale’s lighting design and Josh Bessom’s sound design enhance the overall atmosphere, creating a visually appealing and acoustically satisfying experience.
While not every song may have had my toes tapping, nor the subject matter was my cup of tea, the overall experience was still thoroughly entertaining. I had to turn the logical portion of my brain off that later in the car pondered, “Is anyone faithful in this town?“, “Why does every rom-com targeting a female audience have to focus on infidelity?“, “How has this doctor violated every aspect of the Hippocratic Oath and still retain his license?“, “That’s definitely a code violation. Where’s the health inspector when you need them?”
‘Waitress‘ offers a delightful mix of humor, generational trauma, and engaging performances that make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the film and the musical alike. Running through October 13, 2024, ‘Waitress‘ is a fantastic start to La Mirada Theatre’s season and a charming evening out that shouldn’t be missed…just realize you’ll leave the theatre craving dessert.
To purchase tickets for ‘Waitress‘ visit: https://lamiradatheatre.com/current_events/waitress/
‘Waitress‘ runs from through Sunday, October 13, 2024.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at:
14900 La Mirada Blvd
La Mirada, CA 90638
Summary
Although ‘Waitress‘ serves up the heart with a slice of pie, the generational trauma, at times, overshadows the whimsy of the lighthearted song stylings.
