WAITRESS Streaming on Max
If you’ve ever found yourself humming a show tune while rolling out pie dough, you’re likely no stranger to the irresistible charms of Sara Bareilles and her musical creation, WAITRESS. Blending heartfelt storytelling with sweet whimsy, WAITRESS has captivated theatregoers around the globe and continues to expand its reach. Now, the magic is about to get even easier to watch. The filmed version of WAITRESS, shot during its 2021 return to Broadway and starring the show’s own songwriter Sara Bareilles, is set to begin streaming on Max (in the United States) from 14 February. It will also be available via National Theatre At Home on the same day, giving fans a delicious new way to catch this beloved tale of friendship, hope, and a dash of confectionary creativity.
A MUSICAL’S JOURNEY BACK TO BROADWAY
While WAITRESS first opened on Broadway in 2015, this filmed capture spotlights its 2021 return after theatres had gone dark due to the COVID-19 shutdown. This particular encore engagement saw Sara Bareilles once again step into the apron of Jenna, a diner waitress and expert pie-maker, whose culinary talents serve as both an escape and a creative outlet for her complicated life. For many fans, Bareilles embodies the role in a way that feels deeply personal, given that she not only wrote the Tony-nominated score—featuring such favourites as She Used to Be Mine—but also helped develop the musical’s unique voice.
The 2021 run took place at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre in New York City. Though it stuck around for only a few months, closing that December, the reunion proved to be a powerful statement for the theatre community, reminding everyone that the stage was once again alive and ready to transport audiences back into captivating stories and show-stopping numbers.
FROM CINEMAS TO YOUR SCREEN
The filmed version of WAITRESS isn’t entirely new to the public: after being recorded in front of a live Broadway audience in 2021, the capture made a brief run in cinemas in 2023. Since then, it has been available for digital purchase or rental. But a wide-reaching streaming release has remained high on fans’ wish lists—after all, not everyone had the chance to see the show live or catch the limited cinema screenings. The official arrival on Max, alongside National Theatre At Home, marks a major step in giving theatre enthusiasts everywhere easier access to the production.
The film was originally scheduled to appear on PBS as part of its Great Performances series. However, it was removed from the schedule prior to its broadcast, leading many fans to wonder when they’d get to see it. Now, the wait is finally over. The streaming release promises theatre lovers, musical buffs, and even newcomers an up-close encounter with the production in all its joy and intimacy. With soaring vocals and heartfelt performances, this capture offers the next best thing to being in a Broadway seat yourself.
THE STORY BEHIND THE SHOW
WAITRESS was adapted from the 2007 film of the same name, which starred Keri Russell and was written and directed by Adrienne Shelly. The stage musical features a book by Jessie Nelson and music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, who was catapulted into the theatre world through this venture. Featuring a Tony-nominated score—one that earned raves from critics and audiences alike—the production quickly carved out a special place in the modern musical theatre canon.
The narrative follows Jenna, a diner waitress in a small town with a flair for inventing quirky pie recipes. Trapped in an abusive marriage and yearning for a fresh start, Jenna discovers a pie-baking contest in a nearby county. With the support of her fellow waitresses, Dawn and Becky, along with a few unexpected allies, Jenna realises that her own recipes might be her ticket to a new life—both financially and emotionally. WAITRESS is a story of resilience and sisterhood, layered with comedic moments and heartfelt revelations. It’s no wonder it received four Tony nominations in 2016, including Best Musical.
THE ENCORE CAST
Fans who have followed WAITRESS over the years will recognise many familiar faces in the 2021 encore run. Joining Sara Bareilles on stage is Christopher Fitzgerald, reprising his Tony-nominated turn as the quirky Ogie. The cast also includes Drew Gehling as Dr. Pomatter, Charity Angél Dawson as Becky, Caitlin Houlahan as Dawn, Eric Andersonas Cal, Dakin Matthews as Joe, and Joe Tippett as Earl. Together, they fill the Ethel Barrymore Theatre with the sort of chemistry and camaraderie that comes only from a company well-versed in the show’s emotional heart.
They’re backed by a strong ensemble: Tyrone Davis, Jr., Matt DeAngelis, Andrew Fitch, Henry Gottfried, Molly Jobe, Emily Koch, Max Kumangai, Anastacia McCleskey, Gerianne Pérez, Stephanie Torns, and Nyla Watson. Whether they’re cheering Jenna on or contributing comic relief, these performers help flesh out the inviting world of the local diner that anchors the show’s story. For fans of the production, this cast exudes the warmth and charm that have defined WAITRESS since its earliest days.
REMEMBERING NICK CORDERO
An especially poignant aspect of the 2021 run was a tribute to the late Nick Cordero, who originated the role of Earl when the musical first opened on Broadway. Nick Cordero tragically passed away in July 2020, at the age of 41, after battling a severe case of COVID-19. During the show’s encore engagement, the diner’s pie board—where Jenna lists her cleverly named creations—featured a heartfelt nod to Nick Cordero’s legacy: “A Big Ol Slice of Live Your Life Pie.” Named after his uplifting song Live Your Life, the pie served as a symbolic reminder of his enduring spirit. It also underscored how much the theatre community came together during these challenging times, finding ways to honour those we’ve lost while moving forward with renewed passion.
CREATIVE TEAM AND PRODUCTION DETAILS
WAITRESS is a genuine collaborative effort, involving some of the most respected names in theatre. The stage production was directed by Diane Paulus, known for her innovative reimaginings of classic musicals. The film capture, which viewers will see on Max and National Theatre At Home, was directed by Brett Sullivan, with Jessie Nelsonserving as creative advisor.
Sets are designed by Scott Pask, whose minimalist yet evocative approach brings the diner and its surrounding world to life. Costumes by Suttirat Anne Larlarb add colour and character, while lighting by Ken Billington and sound by Jonathan Deans further immerse you in the show’s emotional highs and lows. Nadia DiGiallonardo serves as music supervisor, ensuring the Tony-nominated score maintains the energy and emotional resonance that have always been the hallmark of WAITRESS.
On the production side, WAITRESS is shepherded by Barry and Fran Weissler and Norton and Elayne Herrick. Michael Roiff, Sara Bareilles, Jessie Nelson, and Paul Morphos also contribute as producers, with Alecia Parkerexecutive producing the screen capture. Every one of these key players has had a hand in guaranteeing that WAITRESS continues to bring joy and solace to audiences, whether on stage or on the screen.
SARA BAREILLES’ ONGOING CONTRIBUTION TO MUSICAL THEATRE
For fans of the multi-talented Sara Bareilles, WAITRESS was their first glimpse into her ability to craft show tunes that could stand alongside the work of more seasoned Broadway composers. In fact, her skills were widely recognised when the show’s score was nominated for a Tony Award. Since then, Sara Bareilles has stepped into other musical theatre ventures, including a short but acclaimed stint in a Broadway revival of INTO THE WOODS, as well as taking on various acting roles, from Girls5Eva to television specials and events.
Her involvement in WAITRESS extends well beyond writing the songs. By choosing to perform as Jenna multiple times—first as a replacement for original star Jessie Mueller in 2017, then returning for a handful of limited engagements—she’s managed to keep the show’s vision both fresh and intimate. Her presence in the 2021 capture only adds another layer of authenticity, giving fans a chance to see the creator living and breathing her own work in real time.
WHERE IT HAS TOUCHED DOWN AROUND THE WORLD
WAITRESS didn’t just charm Broadway audiences—it also found success on London’s West End, where Sara Bareillestook the stage shortly before the global shutdown in early 2020. The show’s popularity continues to spur talk of additional runs or tours. If you happen to be reading from Australia, keep an eye on any potential WAITRESS tours that might be heading your way. In recent years, local productions of large-scale musicals have become more frequent, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. While there’s no confirmed Australian run for WAITRESS at the moment, it’s always worth staying tuned, particularly as the streaming release introduces the show to new international audiences and fuels demand for live stagings around the globe.
THE APPEAL OF WATCHING A STAGE SHOW FROM HOME
Some purists might argue that there’s nothing like attending a musical live in the theatre, and they wouldn’t be wrong. The hush that falls when the lights dim, the electricity of a live orchestra, and the shared experience with other audience members all combine to create an incomparable thrill. Yet there’s also something special about having a high-quality filmed version of a stage show at your fingertips. The camera brings you closer to the actors, giving you the chance to watch their subtle expressions and emotional nuances—details you might miss from the back of the dress circle.
Moreover, for those who live far from major theatrical hubs or have limitations that prevent them from attending in person, a filmed capture can open doors. The official WAITRESS release on Max and National Theatre At Home is part of a broader trend: a growing library of digital theatre experiences, whether it’s captured stage musicals, filmed plays, or specially recorded concert versions. It’s an exciting development for those keen to experience more of what’s on offer in the theatrical world without the constraint of geographical or financial barriers.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE FUTURE
In an industry that can be slow to adapt, the idea of filming a musical and distributing it widely was once a rarity. However, times have changed, especially as audiences have shown an enormous appetite for streaming Broadway shows. WAITRESS now joins the ranks of other stage productions that have found life on digital platforms—underscoring a future where theatres and streaming services may work hand-in-hand to keep the magic of live performance alive and accessible.
This move also speaks volumes about the show’s enduring popularity. WAITRESS isn’t just a fleeting success story; it’s become a staple in the modern musical landscape, with people looking forward to revivals, touring productions, and international stagings. Its wholesome, heartfelt themes about friendship, perseverance, and finding strength within oneself resonate across cultural boundaries, making it ideal for a wide audience—whether they’re die-hard theatregoers or newcomers looking for a musical with soul.
A SLICE OF WHAT’S NEXT
So, if you’ve been craving another helping of WAITRESS—or have yet to experience its flavourful tunes—mark 14 February in your calendar. The day of love itself seems oddly appropriate for a show that has romance, heartbreak, and healing baked into its storyline. You can snuggle up on the sofa, turn on Max (in the United States) or head over to National Theatre At Home, and let the diner doors swing open in front of you. Watch as Sara Bareilles pours her heart into She Used to Be Mine, or let Christopher Fitzgerald’s comedic take on Ogie lift your spirits. You might just find yourself mesmerised by the heartfelt story and humming along to its signature songs long after the credits roll.
WAITRESS has always embodied the sweetness of hope layered with the bitterness of life’s challenges. Its music carries a comforting reminder that, even when life deals you a sour batch of lemons, you can still roll out the dough, whip up something new, and share it with friends who truly care. Through this new streaming release, the message remains the same: everyone deserves the chance to start over, find happiness, and create something beautiful—one pie at a time.
In a world where theatre lovers are constantly juggling work schedules, travel distances, and ticket prices, a filmed musical like WAITRESS offers a rare opportunity: to savour a Broadway show in the comfort of one’s own home. Whether you’re revisiting an old favourite or discovering this gem for the first time, you’ll find yourself whisked away by the spirited cast, the tender storyline, and the indelible melodies crafted by Sara Bareilles. As musical theatre continues to evolve in its digital presence, WAITRESS stands at the forefront of a new era—reminding us that the show, indeed, can go on, no matter the distance between you and the bright lights of the stage. And if this production piques your curiosity about future international runs, keep your eyes open: you never know when WAITRESS might pop up at a theatre near you, from the West End to Down Under. In the meantime, get ready to indulge in a slice of musical delight—no actual rolling pin required.
