Waitress
Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center for the ArtsRed Bank, NJMon, Dec 14, 2026, 07:30 PM EST
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Program: Waitress (musical) by Sara Bareilles / Jessie Nelson.
Waitress is the heartwarming musical that brings Adrienne Shelly's beloved 2007 indie film to vibrant theatrical life. With a Tony-nominated score by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, this contemporary musical follows Jenna, a talented pie-baker trapped in an unhappy marriage who discovers hope through an unexpected pregnancy and a pie-baking contest. The show made Broadway history as the first musical with four women in the top creative roles — composer, book writer, director, and lead producer — and earned multiple Tony nominations including Best Musical.
Expect an intimate, emotionally rich experience that balances humor with genuine heart. Bareilles' folk-pop influenced score features soaring ballads and clever, witty numbers that feel both contemporary and timeless. The musical's warm, kitchen-centered staging creates an inviting atmosphere that makes audiences feel like they're part of Jenna's small-town diner community. Whether you're drawn to stories of personal empowerment, love complex musical storytelling, or simply enjoy beautiful music, Waitress offers something deeply satisfying for theater lovers of all backgrounds.
This national touring production brings the full Broadway experience to major performing arts centers across the country, from the prestigious Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa to Austin's renowned Bass Concert Hall. Each venue on this tour represents a premier destination for touring Broadway shows, ensuring that audiences nationwide can experience the same production values and emotional impact that made Waitress a Broadway favorite. The tour allows the musical to reach communities beyond New York, bringing its message of resilience and self-discovery to diverse audiences.
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The Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center for the Arts stands as Red Bank's premier cultural destination, honoring the legacy of jazz legend Count Basie who called this charming New Jersey town home. This versatile venue hosts an impressive range of performances, from intimate jazz sessions that pay homage to its namesake to contemporary rock concerts, Broadway-style musicals, comedy shows, and family entertainment. The theater's programming reflects both its jazz heritage and its commitment to serving diverse artistic tastes throughout the region.
The venue offers an intimate yet polished theatrical experience, where audiences can enjoy exceptional acoustics and clear sightlines that create a sense of connection between performers and patrons. Whether you're watching a touring musical, laughing at a comedy show, or swaying to live music, the theater's welcoming atmosphere makes every performance feel special. The venue's design ensures that even those in back rows feel close to the action, creating an engaging experience regardless of where you sit.
Located in the heart of Red Bank's vibrant downtown district, the Count Basie Center sits among tree-lined streets filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The area buzzes with pre-show energy as theater-goers stroll the sidewalks, grab dinner at nearby eateries, or browse the local shops. Red Bank's walkable downtown creates a perfect evening out, where the cultural experience extends beyond the theater doors into the surrounding community.
Browse the diverse lineup of upcoming performances at the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre on CultureTicks to discover your next memorable night out.