Tony Award-nominated Waitress comes to Vancouver for performances next week

Nov 6 2019, 6:26 pm

“Life is short, be happy! Go do what you love.”

Kennedy Salters, co-star of Broadway Across Canada’s production of Waitress, remembers those words of encouragement from her family as she began her musical theatre journey in high school. Now the Atlanta-based actress is touring across North America for the very first time.

“I feel exceedingly blessed and grateful to be part of this show,” said Salters, who stars as one of the titular waitresses, Becky. “I am learning so much from my fellow cast members. It’s been a great experience so far.”

Kennedy Salters

Waitress is on stage at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre from November 12 to 17. The Tony Award-nominated musical is based on the 2007 Adrienne Shelly movie, and tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and master pie-maker who wants more out of life than a small town and a shaky marraige. When she learns of a baking contest with a big prize, plus meets someone new, Jenna searches for courage and a fresh start. The Broadway Across Canada tour is also making stops in Edmonton and Calgary this month.

Sanders described her character Becky as the “wise big sister and lifer of the diner,” who is one of the longest-working waitresses while also taking care of her husband. Some of the songs that Becky sings during the show includes I Didn’t Plan It, A Soft Place to Land with fellow waitresses Jenna and Dawn, and Opening Up with Jenna, Becky, Dawn, Cal and Company.

While the musical is filled with laughs, Sanders explains that Waitress also has a message to share with audiences.

“I want audiences to leave the show feeling hopeful and inspired,” added Sanders. “I want people to leave saying, ‘I will finally do that thing I’ve been putting off!”

Waitress is renowned for having an all-female creative team, including original music and lyrics by seven-time Grammy nominee Sara Bareilles, book by filmmaker and screenwriter Jessie Nelson, and original direction by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus.

“Waitress is a musical about the power of women,” said Sanders, “It’s an unleashing of joy and stepping into one’s power and worthiness.

“Waitress is funny because the characters are so honest, and there are real moments too.  That’s what I love about live theatre – there is a shared experience that brings people together.”

Broadway Across Canada presents Waitress

When: November 12 to 17, 2019
Time: Various times, check online for more details
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
Tickets: Available online

Daily Hive is a proud media sponsor of the Broadway Across Canada presents Waitress

Daniel ChaiDaniel Chai

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