Originally Written October 14, 2021
US Tour of “Waitress” Musical to perform at Moss Arts Center
The Moss Arts Center in Blacksburg, Virginia will host a live performance of the musical “Waitress” on Tuesday, Nov. 2, at 7:30 p.m.
“It’s something our patron base has asked for and we know it’s popular because it sells out every Broadway show,” said programming director of the Moss Arts Center, Doug Witney. “Any performance is an opportunity for a community to have a shared experience.”
“Waitress”, based on the film of the same name, follows a baker and hostess named Jenna as she traverses the troubles in her life, including an unexpected pregnancy and an unfulfilling marriage. Feeling restricted, she looks to a baking contest and its cash prize as the way out of her predicament. In her attempts to turn her life around she is surrounded by a group of her fellow coworkers and friends as they undergo similar upheavals of their lives.
“Waitress” has garnered critical and commercial praise and has been nominated for Grammy Awards and Tony Awards. It was originally directed by the award-winning Diane Paulus and has an original score composed by Sara Bareilles. The success of the show has spawned productions around the world and a nationwide U.S. tour.
The performance will take place in the Anne and Ellen Fife Theatre inside the Moss Arts Center located on the Virginia Tech campus. The show is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.Tuesday, Nov. 2.
Masks are required for every person in attendance. The vaccination of attendees is recommended, but not required. Social distancing rules will not be enforced in the gallery nor in the theater.
“We send out an email ahead of time to keep attendees up to date on information and changes, but otherwise they need to come with an attitude to enjoy a highly professional Broadway show,” Witney said.
The touring cast and crew are different from the Broadway production. Notably, the role of Jenna will be played by Jisel Soleil Ayon, the touring director is Susanna Wolk and the touring choreographer is Abbey O’Brien.
The Moss Arts Center building and the art galleries within will open 90 minutes before the performance’s start time. The Anne and Ellen Fife Theater will open for seating 30 minutes before the show begins.
There will be ushers around and inside the building who will direct attendees to their seats and answer questions.
Designated parking for the event is available in the North End Center Parking Garage for a $6 fee. There is limited wheelchair accessible parking outside the center’s entrance. The pick-up and drop-off of guests is permitted in the same area.
Available tickets for the event range in price from $45-$90 for adults, and $25-$70 for guests ages 18 and younger. The limited amount of Virginia Tech $10 student tickets are sold out.
“From the moment they walk in the door of the theater they’ll experience the show,” Witney said. “The show starts the moment they walk in, and it’s bound to be a memorable event for those that attend. They will have a great theatrical experience for its own sake.”
