The acclaimed UK and Ireland tour of the romantic musical comedy Waitress has added a notable name to its cast. Les Dennis, a revered figure in British entertainment, will portray Joe, joining the previously announced Carrie Hope Fletcher as Jenna. The show is set to perform at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool from July 13 to 18, 2026.
Producers Barry & Fran Weissler and David Ian for Crossroads Live expressed their excitement about the casting. Dennis brings over 50 years of experience in show business, with a rich array of credits in theatre and television. He has dazzled audiences in productions such as Hairspray, Spamalot, and Chicago, alongside his memorable television roles including Michael Rodwell in Coronation Street.
Carrie Hope Fletcher, celebrated for her award-winning performances, has starred in numerous productions, including Elf the Musical and Cinderella. Her portrayal of Jenna in Waitress marks another significant chapter in her flourishing career. Fletcher has garnered accolades such as the Best Actress in a Musical award at the WhatsOnStage Awards for her work in various productions.
Les Dennis Looks Forward to Blackpool Return
Dennis has fond memories of performing in Blackpool, where he appeared in Ghost the Musical at the Opera House in December 2024. Reflecting on his experiences, he shared, “I’m looking forward to it, absolutely, because I know Blackpool so well. I used to go as a kid and see all the summer shows.” His connection to the town runs deep, having performed there since 1979, and he expressed enthusiasm for revisiting local landmarks, particularly the Comedy Carpet.
While Fletcher has not recently performed in Blackpool, she previously starred in the lead role in Calamity Jane in June 2023. Both actors’ connections to the town promise an engaging experience for audiences.
Waitress: A Musical of Hope and Friendship
“Waitress celebrates friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.”
Based on the 2007 film by Adrienne Shelly, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a skilled pie maker with dreams of escaping her unfulfilling marriage. A baking contest and the arrival of a new doctor present her with a potential new beginning, while her fellow waitresses offer their own insights on happiness.
The musical features a score by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson. With direction by Diane Paulus and choreography by Lorin Latarro, Waitress has received numerous awards and critical acclaim since its Broadway debut on April 24, 2016. It ran until January 5, 2020, and opened in London’s West End on March 7, 2019.
The show has achieved international success, with productions in North America, Japan, and various language adaptations across the globe. An upcoming production in Australia is set for spring 2026, further showcasing the musical’s universal appeal.
As excitement builds for the Blackpool performances, audiences can anticipate a delightful blend of talent and storytelling that Waitress promises. Further casting announcements are expected soon, adding to the intrigue surrounding this much-loved musical comedy.
