Preview: Waitress at Sunderland Empire

A Slice of Broadway Magic Comes to Sunderland: Waitress Heads to the Empire in 2026

Waitress 

Sunderland Empire

Monday 4 - Saturday 9 May 2026

Sunderland’s theatre scene is set to welcome a big helping of sugar, butter, and flour in 2026, as the smash-hit romantic musical comedy Waitress is confirmed for a week-long run at the Sunderland Empire. Producers Barry & Fran Weissler and David Ian for Crossroads Live have announced that the much-loved show will visit Wearside from Monday 4 May to Saturday 9 May 2026, bringing with it a heartfelt story, unforgettable songs, and a whole lot of pie.

For those who haven’t yet had the pleasure, Waitress is no ordinary musical. Based on Adrienne Shelly’s 2007 indie film of the same name, the show has won legions of fans thanks to its sharp blend of humour, romance, and empowerment. Its score, written by Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, has become a modern classic—filled with heartfelt ballads and toe-tapping numbers that capture the bittersweet flavour of everyday life. Jessie Nelson provides the book, while Tony Award-winning director Diane Paulus and choreographer Lorin Latarro round out a creative team that has ensured the show’s global success.

The story follows Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker stuck in a loveless marriage, who discovers that a local baking contest—and the town’s handsome new doctor—might just offer her the fresh start she’s been yearning for. Alongside her loyal fellow waitresses, Jenna learns that the recipe for happiness is never straightforward, but it can be found with courage, friendship, and a little faith in yourself.

Since making its Broadway debut at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre in 2016, where it played until 2020, Waitress has risen to become a true international hit. London’s West End production at the Adelphi Theatre opened in 2019 to rave reviews, and the show has since spread its magic to audiences in Japan, Holland, Canada (in French), Mexico (in Spanish), and across North America. The 2026 tour marks a much-anticipated return to UK and Irish stages.

While casting for the Sunderland run is still under wraps, anticipation is already building. The production promises to deliver the same warmth, wit, and soul that has won over audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a musical theatre enthusiast, a fan of Sara Bareilles’ music, or simply in search of a feel-good night out, Waitress is set to be a delicious treat for the North East.

Photos from Previous Production [Montreal] by Marie-Andrée Lemire

#ad Tickets:

Tickets are now on general sale via ATGTickets.com/Sunderland*. Given the show’s reputation and its limited one-week run at the Empire, early booking is strongly advised—because much like a slice of Jenna’s best pie, seats are sure to sell fast.

*A £3.95 transaction fee may apply to online bookings.