Producer John Frost for Crossroads Live has confirmed the primary cast members for the upcoming Australian premiere of the Broadway musical Waitress. The production is scheduled to begin its run at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre on 1 May 2026, before moving to the Sydney Lyric Theatre starting 1 August 2026.
Natalie Bassingthwaighte has been cast in the central role of Jenna, a waitress and pie maker living in a small American town. Bassingthwaighte comes to the role following a diverse career in music and theatre, including a recent tour of Shirley Valentine and previous leading roles in Chicago and Jagged Little Pill. Joining her at the diner are Gabriyel Thomas as Becky and Mackenzie Dunn as Dawn. Thomas most recently appeared as Grizabella in the national tour of Cats, while Dunn’s credits include the Australian tour of Annie and the role of Rizzo in Grease.
The production also features Rob Mills as Dr Pomatter and John Waters as Joe. Mills, known for his work in & Juliet and Wicked, will portray Jenna’s neurotically charming gynaecologist. Waters, a veteran of the Australian industry with a career spanning five decades in projects ranging from Play School to Breaker Morant, takes on the role of the diner’s owner.
John Frost expressed his satisfaction with the selected performers and the enduring appeal of the musical’s score and themes:
I’m overjoyed to announce this extraordinarily talented cast. They will beautifully bring to life the delightful characters in this original and inspiring production. WAITRESS was a massive hit on Broadway where it played for almost four years, and was a huge success in the West End and across the world. WAITRESS has become a ‘must see’ musical, with its memorable music by Sara Bareilles and universal themes of hope and resilience. Get your tickets now to enjoy this life-affirming show.
Waitress features music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Sara Bareilles. Tickets for both the Melbourne and Sydney seasons are currently available through the official website.
