Last week my friend Anna & I went to see Waitress at Manchester Opera House. Neither of us knew much about the storyline but we both really wanted to see it. It was written by Sara Bareilles who is one of my favourite singers, so I already had high hopes. When I got the tickets in September 2025 it was the first time ever I had been in a virtual queue for theatre tickets (just like concert tickets) so I knew then it was going to be popular.
Manchester Opera House is only about an hour from where I live, so I frequently go to see shows there, and this is my third one this year at this venue. It is truly beautiful and still has the old fashioned binoculars for hire (which Anna was amazed at). I often get the cheapest seat option in the Grand Circle and they always have an amazing view despite being high up - but beware of the very steep steps to get there.
The musical is based on the 2007 film of the same name, featuring music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson. The story follows Jenna Hunterson, a waitress and expert pie-maker who dreams of escaping her loveless marriage and small-town life. Carrie Hope Fletcher was cast as Jenna and all I can say is wow. Her voice was incredible and she just absolutely nailed it. The show was actually also really funny, and I found myself laughing throughout!
Waitress is currently on a UK tour, and I would honestly love to see it again. Tour dates can be found here, but be sure to check the casting information to see if Carrie will be performing, as it seems she is not confirmed for every show, and in my opinion although I haven't seen anyone else play Jenna, I feel she really makes it.
The show was actually preceded by a lovely lunch at Turtle Bay. Only my third time at Turtle Bay and Anna's first, and we both had quite different meals. I went for the Mo' Bay Chicken with sweet potato fries & plantain (which is what I have had all 3 times!) but Anna chose the Goats Cheese & Sweet Onion pizza which honestly looked amazing. We also managed to have a game of dominos which was really fun!
Overall we had a wonderful time, and I definitely need to stray away from what I know next time I visit Turtle Bay since I has so much envy of that pizza! There is one quite local to me, so maybe I will get there soon.
Love, Beth x