October is serving up something sweet — and this time, it’s Broadway’s WAITRESS heading Down Under!
The internationally acclaimed musical that’s been melting hearts from New York to London is finally making its Australian debut, and casting is now underway through official agent submissions.
With music and lyrics by Grammy® winner Sara Bareilles (Love Song, Brave) and direction by Tony® Award-winner Diane Paulus, WAITRESS tells the story of Jenna, a small-town waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of starting a new life. When a baking contest, a surprising new romance, and the support of her best friends offer a taste of change, Jenna discovers the recipe for courage may be her own creation.
“A delicious tale that’s not simply about getting Prince Charming, but discovering your worth.” – Variety
The production — led by powerhouse producer John Frost for Crossroads Live, alongside Barry & Fran Weissler — features an all-star creative team including Lorin Latarro (Choreographer), Abbey O’Brien (Associate Director/Choreographer), and Luke Joslin (Resident Director).
Performers with strong pop/rock vocals, exceptional storytelling ability, and great comedic timing are being represented for all principal and ensemble roles.
ABOUT THE SHOW
WAITRESS is a feel-good celebration of friendship, resilience, and second chances — with just the right dash of sugar and spice. Featuring beloved songs like She Used to Be Mine, it’s been described as “a little slice of heaven” (Entertainment Weekly) and “made from the finest ingredients” (Time Out).
The show will tour nationally from August 2026 – April 2027, following rehearsals commencing mid-2026.
AUDITION OVERVIEW
Auditions are being scheduled for November 2025 in both Melbourne and Sydney, with final callbacks in late November.
Applications close 11:59 pm Wednesday 22 October 2025.
Please note that WAITRESS promotes an inclusive and diverse casting ethos, encouraging representation across cultural, gender, and body identities.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
The producers are seeking exceptional singer–actors with strong pop/rock vocal ability, authentic storytelling skills, and confident movement. Here’s an overview of the key roles being represented:
JENNA – Female presenting, 20s–30s
A small-town waitress and expert pie maker trapped in an unhappy marriage. Sensitive, warm, and quietly resilient, Jenna dreams of a better life and discovers the courage to begin again.
Vocal style: Pop/rock with emotional range and clarity.
DAWN – Female presenting, 20s
Eccentric and endearingly awkward, Dawn is the youngest of the waitresses. Sweetly neurotic and particular about every detail — she brings heart and humour to the diner.
Vocal style: Pop/folk tone with storytelling charm.
BECKY – Female presenting, 40s–50s
The eldest of the waitresses — irreverent, quick-witted, and unfiltered, yet deeply loyal. She’s lived through life’s ups and downs and isn’t afraid to speak her mind.
Vocal style: Soulful pop with a strong belt.
Dr. POMATTER–Male presenting, 30s–early 40s
Charming, quirky, and slightly neurotic. Jenna’s gynaecologist, whose unexpected affair with her is filled with humour, vulnerability, and humanity.
Vocal style: Strong pop/rock tenor with warmth and expression.
EARL – Male presenting, 20s–30s
Jenna’s husband. Gruff, insecure, and controlling — a man whose frustrations have curdled into anger. A complex role requiring emotional range.
Vocal style: Contemporary singer/songwriter (Elton John–style). Guitar skills a plus.
OGIE – Male presenting, 30s
Lovable, offbeat, and completely smitten with Dawn after their brief date. Comic gold with a huge heart.
Vocal style: Pop/rock tenor or baritenor with strong comedic timing.
JOE – Male presenting, 60s–70s
The curmudgeonly diner owner with a hidden soft side. Wise, sarcastic, and warm-hearted beneath his gruff exterior.
Vocal style: Character role with comedic rhythm.
CAL (also covers Joe) – Male presenting, 40s
Head chef at the diner — a no-nonsense “guy’s guy” surrounded by women. Brash but charming with great comic energy.
Vocal style: Contemporary baritone with comedic edge.
ENSEMBLE – All genders, 20s–40s
Dynamic performers with excellent pop/rock voices and strong movement ability to portray the colourful small-town community surrounding Jenna and her friends.
HOW TO BE CONSIDERED
As this is a professional musical-theatre audition, applications are being accepted via registered agents only through the Crossroads Live Australia Audition Portal.
If this opportunity sounds like your perfect next step, reach out to your agent or representative for further details, audition materials, and submission instructions.
Dancers Choice congratulates Crossroads Live Australia on bringing this heart-warming hit to Australian stages — and we can’t wait to see which local stars will soon be serving up pies and powerhouse performances in WAITRESS The Musical! 
