Starting off their 72nd season, Billings Studio Theatre brings one of the hottest new musicals to the community theatre stage with “Waitress”. If there was ever a perfect example of starting off with a new season of community theatre with a bang, this is it!
Maintaining her high standard of excellence as a musical director, Amy Schendel has assembled the perfect team of actors and musicians to bring the world and story of “Waitress” to life. Her artistic vision and experience as a professional music educator come to light in every aspect of this production.
This is not to say the story is Jenna’s and Jenna’s alone. Nor does this mean the spotlight only deserves to shine on Alyssa. Joining alongside Alyssa’s authentic performance as Jenna are Macy Doucette as the loveable, quirky Dawn and Wendy Carlin as the comical, sassy Becky. I have not seen a more dynamic and cohesive group of female performers since the Marvelous Wonderettes.
Along the way, there are more characters involved in this beautiful story that are masterfully portrayed by some of the most talented performers in the Billings community theatre space. These include, but are not limited to, Evan Ulrichs as the charmingly goofy Dr. Pomatter, Thomas Popiel as the eccentric Ogie, and Ben Bishop as the self-absorbed Earl. Every character commands the stage in their own unique way, but not in a way that is overpowering nor overshadows any other characters. This cast portrays the idea of community on the stage through their powerful performances in a way that has not been seen in a long time.
I watched with a very close and critical eye on every single performer. Every lead, every ensemble member, every musician. I found ZERO weak links. Every individual involved in this performance brings their very best and it shows. Every performer in this show is a puzzle piece and they fit together perfectly to create a beautiful work of art.
The elements of this production on their own and collectively are presented in top-tier form. The lead characters are dynamic. The ensemble members create their own special level to the production through character performances that compliment the leads.The music is powerful, energetic, and beautifully orchestrated. The choreography is crisp, natural, and even mesmerizing. The set of Joe’s Pie Diner is creative and authentic. The story provides an array of emotions for the audience to feel through the characters’ interactions, whether the characters express joy, anger, confusion, or love.
“Waitress” has received critical acclaim as a hot, new musical. Billings Studio Theatre does nothing less than do its justice in maintaining this standard through its production. New and exciting shows of this caliber do not come to Billings so quickly this often, so it would be a crime to miss out on this historical and beautifully crafted performance at Billings Studio Theatre. It can undoubtedly sell like hotcakes and become a sold-out show faster than you can say “Order up!”. This show is as much of a treat as any of the pies Jenna makes at the diner. Enjoy “Waitress” at Billings Studio Theatre while you can! The show runs September 6th through September 22nd. Please note the show does contain adult language and situations. See you at the show!
- Nathan Williams
Alyssa Melder takes on the challenge of unveiling the story of “Waitress” as Jenna Hunterson. In short, the line between Alyssa the actress and Jenna the character is blurred. Alyssa powerfully transforms into Jenna and flawlessly embodies her as a character. It is nothing short of impressive seeing Alyssa bring Jenna to life from the moment the curtain opens to the final bows.
