Jennifer Nettles will take over the lead role of Jenna in “Waitress” starting in October, producers announced Thursday.
She takes over the role from Sara Bareilles, who will play her last performance on Oct. 17. Nettles will play the role from Oct. 19 through Nov. 24.
Nettles is a Grammy Award-winning country singer, who has also appeared in film and television projects, including on the HBO series “The Righteous Gemstones.” She previously appeared on Broadway as Roxie Hart in “Chicago,” and appeared as Donna in the Hollywood Bowl’s production of “Mamma Mia.”
Maiesha McQueen will take over the role of Becky from Charity Angel Dawson and Ashley Blanchet will take on the role of Dawn, previously played by Caitlin Houlahan. McQueen, who previously starred in the “Waitress” first national tour, and Blanchet, who appeared on Broadway in “Frozen,” join the cast Oct. 5.
“Waitress” is scheduled to play the Ethel Barrymore Theatre through Jan. 9. The musical features a score by Sara Bareilles, a book by Jessie Nelson, choreography by Lorin Latarro and direction by Diane Paulus.
It is produced by Barry and Fran Weissler and Norton and Elayne Herrick.
