She’s the Grammy-winning music powerhouse that’s been the soundtrack to our lives for more than two decades and produced some of the most moving music offerings of all-time – few greater than her Tony-recognised musical Waitress, which took New York by storm when it first began performances back in 2016. 

Now, in an exclusive conversation marking the 10th anniversary of the show’s Broadway debut — and as a thrilling new touring production moves audiences across the UK — its Tony-nominated composer reflects on the life-changing journey of writing for Jenna, the pie-maker with a heart of gold.

So direct from Stateside and taking a break from her time in the studio, we deep dive into the original creations of Waitress in this 14-year journey; including overcoming imposter syndrome while writing her first Broadway musical, writing soaring anthems like She Used to Be Mine, Soft Place To Hand and What Baking Can Do — and the honour of bringing Adrienne Shelly’s beloved story to the stage with a history-making creative team.

We also discuss the emotional impact of Jessie Mueller’s original performance, how developing the role with her gave the composer the courage to step into Jenna’s shoes herself and understanding the value of feeling uncomfortable when creating new art.

And she celebrates the power of new storytelling for her show with new faces and new audiences as Waitress tours the UK in this 10th anniversary year. 

Sugar. Butter. Sara.

Host: William J Connolly

Produced by: William J Connolly/Darren Bell

waitressthemusical.co.uk

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