Sara Bareilles Looks Back on ‘Waitress’ Impact on Her Life
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By Carrie Thompson
Singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles has opened up about the profound impact that the Broadway hit ‘Waitress’ has had on her life in an exclusive interview. As the musical is set to be streamed on Max on February 14th, Sara reflects on the incredible journey that the production has taken her on.
Bareilles, who both scored and starred in the adaptation of Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 film, shared that working on ‘Waitress’ has been a labour of love. She described the experience as “a remarkable journey” and expressed her pride in how the film captured the essence of the Broadway stage production.
The musical, written by Jessie Nelson, tells the story of Jenna Hunterson, a waitress and talented pie maker, who enters a baking contest in the hopes of escaping her loveless marriage. Sara Bareilles portrays Jenna, a character who navigates unexpected changes in her life, showcasing themes of resilience and self-discovery.
Directed for the stage by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus, ‘Waitress’ premiered on Broadway in 2016 with a star-studded cast. The musical received four Tony nominations, including a nod for Bareilles for best original score. Sara herself later took on the role of Jenna for limited engagements on Broadway, the West End, and in the film adaptation.
In the interview, Bareilles emphasised how working on ‘Waitress’ challenged her perceptions of musical theatre. Initially feeling apprehensive about potential monotony, she discovered the dynamic nature of live performances, with each show offering a unique experience. Sara expressed her gratitude towards the opportunity to share this theatrical journey with a wider audience.
Filming for the movie adaptation took place over four days, capturing the essence of the live production. Sara fondly recalled her favourite memory from filming, which involved reuniting with original cast members and sharing joyful moments on stage. She especially cherished working alongside her real-life partner, Joe Tippett, who played a significant role in the production.
As the streaming release date approaches, Sara is excited for audiences to experience the emotional depth and connection of ‘Waitress’. She highlighted the show’s ability to resonate with viewers on a personal level, bringing comfort and shared experiences to diverse audiences. The musical’s iconic songs, including ‘She Used to Be Mine’ and ‘Everything Changes’, continue to evoke powerful emotions and reflections for Sara.
In conclusion, ‘Waitress’ has not only been a pivotal professional project for Sara Bareilles but also a transformative personal journey. The musical’s enduring themes of resilience and self-discovery have resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. As the film adaptation premieres for streaming, Sara looks forward to sharing this beloved story with fans old and new.
For more entertainment news and exclusive interviews, stay tuned to PEOPLE magazine.