Waitress at Wales Millennium Centre Review: Carrie Hope Fletcher Serves Up a Heartwarming Musical Treat
There’s something irresistibly comforting about Waitress. Like one of Jenna’s beautifully baked pies, it balances sweetness, warmth and just the right amount of emotional depth. Now touring the UK and stopping at Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre, this much-loved musical proves once again why audiences continue to fall head over heels for its story, characters and unforgettable score.
Based on the beloved 2007 film and featuring music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, Waitress follows Jenna, a talented pie-maker trapped in an unhappy marriage who dreams of a better life. What unfolds is a moving, funny and uplifting journey of friendship, self-discovery and finding the courage to start again.
Leading the cast is the ever-excellent Carrie Hope Fletcher, who delivers a captivating performance as Jenna. Fletcher brings warmth, vulnerability and wit to the role, making Jenna instantly relatable from the moment she steps onto the stage. Her vocals are, unsurprisingly, sensational, particularly during the show’s emotional powerhouse numbers, where she effortlessly captures the character’s hopes, fears and determination.
“A deliciously uplifting musical packed with heart”
Alongside her, Dan Partridge shines as Dr Pomatter, bringing charm and sincerity to a role that could easily feel clichéd in less capable hands. The chemistry between the pair feels natural and believable, helping the emotional core of the story land with genuine impact.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Sandra Marvin is a scene-stealer as Becky, delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside a fiercely independent spirit that audiences will adore. Evelyn Hoskins brings delightful energy and impeccable comic timing to Dawn, whose quirky romance subplot remains one of the musical’s biggest crowd-pleasers. Meanwhile, television favourite Les Dennis proves a perfect fit as Old Joe, delivering warmth, wisdom and humour in equal measure.
One of Waitress’ greatest strengths is its ability to tackle serious themes while remaining genuinely uplifting. Beneath the laughs and romance lies a powerful story about resilience, friendship and reclaiming your future. The show never feels overly sentimental, instead allowing its characters to feel authentic and relatable.
Of course, no review of Waitress would be complete without mentioning Sara Bareilles’ stunning score. Songs such as She Used to Be Mine continue to resonate deeply with audiences, while the show’s blend of pop, folk and musical theatre influences creates a soundtrack that lingers long after the curtain falls.
Visually, the production is bright, colourful and full of charm. The diner setting feels wonderfully inviting, while the creative staging keeps the action flowing smoothly throughout. Combined with strong choreography, excellent musicianship and a cast clearly enjoying every moment, the result is a thoroughly entertaining evening of theatre.
For those wondering what’s on at the Wales Millennium Centre this season, Waitress is undoubtedly one of the standout productions. Whether you’re discovering the musical for the first time or revisiting an old favourite, this UK Tour delivers all the heart, humour and musical magic that has made the show a global success.
Warm, witty and packed with exceptional performances, Waitress is a feel-good musical that leaves audiences smiling from ear to ear. Carrie Hope Fletcher leads a superb cast in a production that serves up plenty of laughs, a few tears and an abundance of heart.
Waitress is now playing at the Wales Millennium Centre from the 8th-13th June. To book tickets and find out more, visit the Wales Millennium Centre website here.
