Waitress musical review: Australian premiere lacks depth despite strong ingredients

The Australian premiere of Waitress The Musical has finally opened at Melbourne's Her Majesty's Theatre, starring Natalie Bassingthwaighte as Jenna. Based on Adrienne Shelly's 2007 film, the musical features music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson. It was a feminist hit on Broadway in 2016, debuting the same year Hamilton swept the Tonys. The Australian production was originally scheduled for Sydney's Lyric Theatre in 2020 but was delayed. The review criticizes the show for skimming over complex issues like domestic violence and unwanted pregnancy, and for lacking character depth. Bassingthwaighte's performance is noted as lacking grit, with industry insiders reportedly checking for dates when alternate Annie Aitken performs. The second act picks up pace, leading to a satisfying conclusion. The show is described as 'fast food musical theatre' — entertaining but not deep. It runs at Her Majesty's Theatre until 19 June, then moves to Sydney's Lyric Theatre from 1 August.