Waitress Program by Centre Stage

First

WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT CENTRE STAGE!

We focus our experienced project management team on serving the needs of retail, restaurant, hospitality, healthcare, ﬁnancial, industrial, and general oﬃce clients in the Carolinas and Florida, as well as residential clients in the Upstate. We keep our clients and their vision at the heart of all we do. It is built into our name Forge ahead, together.

www.sweetscakestudio.com

Sweets Cake Studio

@sweets cake studio

INPARTNERSHIPWITH

Safe Harbor is a private 501(c)3 non-profit organization that offers a continuum of services for survivors of domestic abuse and their children in Greenville, Anderson, Pickens and Oconee Counties. Our services include a 24/7 help line, safe emergency shelters, therapy for survivors and their children, case management, assistance with filing for an Order of Protection, transitional housing, domestic abuse education and parenting classes, and group support.

SPECIALTHANKS

BEVERLEY KENNETT AND JAMES SMITH WHITTEN CHARITIABLE TRUST

Thank you to Greenville Theatre, Craig Smith, Mauldin Theatre Company, and more for their additional help on this production!

This program is funded in part by the Metropolitan Arts Council which receives support from the City of Greenville, BMW Manufacturing Company, SEW Eurodrive and the South Carolina Arts Commission.

This organization is funded in part by the South Carolina Arts Commission which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts

No flash photography permitted. Please silence all electronic devices including cellular phones and watches, and refrain from text messaging for the duration of the performance.

THE VIDEOTAPING OR MAKING OF ELECTRONIC OR OTHER AUDIO AND/OR VISUAL RECORDINGS OF THIS PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTING RECORDINGS OR STREAMS IN ANY MEDIUM, INCLUDING THE INTERNET, IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED, A VIOLATION OF THE AUTHOR(S)’S RIGHTS AND ACTIONABLE UNDER UNITED STATES COPYRIGHT LAW.

Music and Lyrics by Sara Bareilles

Book by Jessie Nelson

Based upon the motion picture written by Adrienne Shelly

May 1-18, 2025

Thurs-Sat @ 8pm Sun @ 3pm

Orchestrations Sara Bareilles & The Waitress Band

Music by Arrangement with Sony Music Publishing

Originally Produced on Broadway by Barry & Fran Weissler, Norton and Elayne Herrick

David I. Berley, Independent Presenters Network, A.C.Orange International, Peter May, Michael Roiff, Ken Schur, Marisa Sechrest, Jam Theatricals, 42nd.club/Square I Theatrics, Benjamin Simpson & Joseph Longthorne/Shira Friedman

Alecia Parker, Executive Producer

Original motion picture produced by Michael Roiff/Night & Day Pictures

World premiere produced by the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University, August 2, 2015

Diane Paulus, Artistic Director and Diane Borger, Producer

Peter Duchan, Script Consultant for A.R.T. Production

The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.

MESSAGEFROMMANAGINGARTISTICDIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

Welcome to Waitress the Musical at Centre Stage!

The first time I saw this show, I was deeply moved by its honest, heartwarming story. It’s a tale of resilience, hope, and the strength it takes to choose something better for yourself wrapped in music that’s as rich and layered as the pies Jenna bakes. I left the theatre that night thinking, This is a story our community needs to experience.

From that moment, I dreamed of bringing Waitress to Centre Stage of being the first to produce it in the Upstate using the incredible local talent we’re so lucky to have here. That dream has come to life on this stage, and I am thrilled to share it with you.

I hope tonight’s performance touches your heart the way the story first touched mine. Thank you for supporting live theatre and for being part of this special moment in Centre Stage’s journey.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Laura Nicholas Managing Artistic Director, Centre Stage

MUSICALNUMBERS

ACT 1

What's Inside

Opening Up

The Negative What Baking Can Do

Club Knocked Up

Pomatter Pie

When He Sees Me

It Only Takes a Taste

You Will Still Be Mine A Soft Place to Land

Never Ever Getting Rid of Me

Bad Idea

ACT 2

I Didn't Plan It

Bad Idea - Reprise You Matter to Me

I Love You Like a Table Take It From an Old Man

Dear Baby She Used to Be Mine

Contraction Ballet

Everything Changes Opening Up - Finale

THEJAMESANDBEVERLEYWHITTENCENTREFORTHE PERFORMINGARTS

A second facility located on Laurens Road honoring James and Beverley Whitten—beloved friends and generous supporters of Centre Stage.

This building will serve as a dedicated space for rehearsal, storage, and educational programming, operating alongside the downtown performance venue at 501 River Street. This expansion will enhance artistic opportunities and ensure greater accessibility for the community.

CLAIMYOURSPOTINCENTRESTAGEHISTORY!

Support the arts one hanger at a time.

With a $100 donation, you can sponsor a Z-rack or prop shelf in our brand-new Laurens Road building, helping us store and protect the costumes and props that bring our productions to life.

Each rack/shelf will proudly display the name of its donor—whether it’s your name, your business, or in honor of someone special.

Donate today and leave your mark behind the scenes.

Scan the QR Code below or stop by the lobby to reserve your spot!

CAST

TiffanySt.Clair CeliaBlitzer Jenna Becky

KelseyOlivia Dawn CraigSmith Dr.Pomatter

Ensemble

KatelinOrr Ensemble

Ensemble

Cal

NurseNorma/Ensemble

Ensemble

AndrewWilsonJr.

HelenJoy

ChrisFoster

AlexRobinson

TaylorSmith

Ogie

PaulNoga Joe

JacobSeay Earl

JamesHester

RazariaDenaeCopeland

Charlotte Lulu

CASTOFCHARACTERS

Jenna ..........................................................................Tiffany St. Clair

Becky .................................................................................Celia Blitzer

Dawn ...............................................................................Kelsey Olivia

Dr. Pomatter ....................................................................Craig Smith

Cal ....................................................................................James Hester

Ogie .................................................................................Taylor Smith

Joe ......................................................................................... Paul Noga

Earl .......................................................................................Jacob Seay

Ensemble ...........................................................................Katelin Orr

Ensemble, Nurse Norma ........................Razaria Denae Copeland

Ensemble..................................................................... Alex Robinson

Ensemble ..............................................................Andrew Wilson Jr.

Ensemble ..............................................................................Helen Joy

Ensemble .........................................................................Chris Foster

Lulu ..........................................................................Charlotte Gainey

Place A small town off Highway 27.

Time

Not so long ago.

There will be one 15-minute intermission

ChristopherRose Director

KasidyBrooks ProductionAssistant

PRODUCTIONTEAM

ChaseMcAbee MusicalDirector

MirandaLee StageManage

BenjiShuba Asst.StageManager

HelenJoy Choreographer

SamaelLazarus SpotLightOperator

SpotLightOperator DakotaAdams LightDesigner

EliotThomas PropsDesigner A ieWatson cArtist

LightBoardOperator

Dresser/BackstageCrew

PRODUCTIONTEAM

Director ...................................................................Christopher Rose

Musical Director..........................................................Chase McAbee

Stage Manager ...............................................................Miranda Lee

Assistant Stage Manager ..............................................Benji Shuba

Production Assistant .................................................Kasidy Brooks

Choreographer ....................................................................Helen Joy

Set Designer .....................................................................Craig Smith

Costume Designer ......................................................Jenny Bennett

Props Designer ............................................................Eliot Thomas

Audio Engineer ........................................................................TJ Hills

Light Designer.............................................................Dakota Adams

Scenic Artist ..........................................................Makenzie Watson

Spot Light Operators ..............................................Samael Lazarus Kat J.

Light Board Operator ...............................................Colin Moroney

Dresser/Backstage Crew ...............................................Bess Bergin

STAFF

Managing

Technical

Production

Patron

Marketing

CASTBIOS

Tiffany St. Clair (Jenna) Tiffany is thrilled to be back in her hometown and back on stage! After moving to Pigeon Forge,TN in 2016 and spending the last 9 years performing at Dollywood, Stampede, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, singing with Dolly herself in one of her movies and being a featured female singer at Smoky Mountain Opry, she is now happy to be home and back on stage continuing to do what she loves.

In addition to her love for the stage, she also owns Sweets Cake Studio and spends her days baking up elaborate wedding cakes, cookies, cupcakes & any other treats one might need. Make sure to grab a cookie and her info in the lobby and have “Jenna” make your next sweet treat for your next event. She was last seen on stage in Greenville as Lady of the Lake in Spamalot (Centre Stage), Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins (Spartanburg Little Theater), Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde (Greenville Theatre), and A Featured Female Singer in various music reviews at Centre Stage & Greenville Theatre.

This one’s for my babies, Gabe & Weslie Kate. I hope you always remember that no matter what life may throw at you, you can always turn it into something sweet. Mama loves you more than you’ll ever know!

Celia Blitzer (Becky) is delighted to return to Centre Stage in this wonderful show. Previous Centre Stage credits include: My Way, Shaboom, Grandma in The Addams Family, Orange in Shout, and Shirley Markowitz in The Producers. Other upstate credits include: Tammy in Margaritaville (Joanne Woodward Award - Best Supporting Actress), Dragon/Mama Bear in Shrek, Paulette in Legally Blonde (GT); Norma in Hands on a Hardbody (Norma), Melpomene in Xanadu, Columbia in Rocky Horror (SLT); Pamela in Head Over Heels (PM). Originally from the Baltimore/DC area, other favorites include: Hairspray (Tracy), Nunsense (RobertAnn), Children of Eden (Yonah), and Company (Marta). Thank you to the production team for being sweet as pie throughout this process.

Kelsey Olivia (Dawn) was born in Greenville and currently lives in the downtown area. She graduated from the South Carolina School of the Arts with her Bachelor of Fine Arts. She is currently the Brand Ambassador at

Simply Southern Chiropractic Center. Most of her free time is spent at the theater! Some honorable mentions of previous roles include Elle Woods (Legally Blonde), Kate (Wild Party), Bonnie (Bonnie and Clyde), Gertrude McFuzz (Seussical), Kira (Xanadu), Lucy Grant (Bright Star), Margo Crawford (Bright Star) and Missy (Marvelous Wonderettes). She is so excited to tell this story through the eyes of her beloved Dawn!

Kelsey would like to thank her partner, Drake, for his support during every show process and being the best dog and cat dad around. She simply couldn’t do all that she does without his support.

Craig Smith (Dr. Pomatter/Set Designer) is delighted to be joining this incredibly talented team in the regional premiere of Waitress. Select CS Credits: Peter and the Starcatcher, Singin’ in the Rain, My Way: A Frank Sinatra Tribute. Regional Credits: Dial M for Murder (Greenville Theatre), Assassins (Jennie T. Anderson Theatre, GA), BKLYN: The Musical (Mountain Theatre Company, NC), Catch the Butcher (Ensemble Stage, NC), Urinetown (Studio Theatre Tierra Del Sol, FL), Madagascar (Virginia Children’s Theatre, VA) Film/TV: “Three Months”, “The Eyes of Tammy Faye”, “Dynasty”. Love to friends, family, & Christopher @actcraigsmith

James L. Hester (Cal)'s love for the theater began at an early age under the direction of the late Dwight Woods and Clark Nesbitt while a member of the Phillis Wheatley Repertory Theater. Throughout his young life he’s worked in various area of ministry as Minister of Music and the performing arts to include his performance as Reverend Purlie in the stage production of “Purlie”. He also has appeared in the lead role of “Don’t Give Up On Your Dream”, “Saying Loud on Broadway” and “Till Victory Is Won” as the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Seen at Centre Stage as Bishop in Through The Night, Mister ... in The Color Purple and Troy Maxon in Fences.

He is the owner of The Wholy Smoke Family Restaurant of Mauldin and Wholy Smoke Mobile.

Taylor Smith (Ogie) is thrilled to be joining this incredible group at Centre Stage! He is currently the Director of Theatre at Byrnes High School in Duncan and holds an MFA in Theatre from the University of Idaho. Taylor also spent 5 years working in entertainment for The Walt Disney Company in Orlando, FL. He is a proud member of The SDC.

While directing has been his main passion as of late, Taylor has also been on stage in roles such as Horton in Seussical and Moritz in Spring Awakening. He is so excited to be headed to the diner with Ogie! “To the Cast and Crew of Waitress, I love ya like a table!”

Paul Noga (Joe) is grumpily happy to be returning to Centre Stage, having last performed as Professor Plum in Clue. He retired to the Upstate in 2017, after having spent many years in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, where he performed for numerous theatre groups.

His most recent performances have been as Judge Wargrave in And Then There Were None (Mill Town Players) and the Rev. Chasuble in The Importance of Being Earnest (Tryon Little Theatre). Other favorite performances include Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop of Horrors (Centre Stage), and Col. Pickering in My Fair Lady and Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret (GLOW Lyric Theatre).

Jacob Seay (Earl) is so excited to be back at Centre Stage alongside this amazing cast and crew. His other Centre Stage credits include Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (Buddy Holly), Once (Andrej), and Rockin' Boots (Performer). Other favorite roles include Tick, Tick…Boom! (Jon) at Market Theatre, A Chorus Line (Zach) at Mauldin Cultural Center, Escape to Margaritaville (Tully) at Greenville Theatre, and The Great Gatsby (Nick Carraway) at Spartanburg Little Theatre. You can see him onstage again later this summer in Centre Stage’s Million Dollar Quartet (Carl Perkins).

Katelin Orr (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back at Centre Stage for the third time this season! You may have seen her as Emory/Kelsey/Others in And Getting Caught in the Rain or as Betty Jean in Winter Wonderettes. She holds a BA in theatre and is so grateful for each new opportunity she has to learn from other artists.

Other favorite credits include Woman 2/Lana Sherwood in It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, Lizzy in Alas (and Other Remedies), and Ensemble in A Tale of Two Cities: The Musical.

Waitress is one of Katelin's favorite shows and she is so thankful to work with such a fun and talented cast & crew- she can't wait for you to see what they've been baking up! Thank you to everyone who encourages her to take

up space and to her cat Nala (based in ATL) for providing endless emotional support over FaceTime. Enjoy!

Razaria Denae Copeland (Ensemble/Nurse Norma) is a Senior Theatre Major living in Anderson, South Carolina. She was overjoyed that her first professional opportunity be at Center Stage AND doing Waitress! Some of her past productions are in A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Hippolyta and in Our Town as Stage Manager at the South Carolina School of the Arts. She is extremely passionate about working with and supporting Deaf and Hard of Hearing Actors here in the Upstate. She would love to thank her family for always allowing her to sing as loud as she wanted, and she is so grateful that the start of her professional career will be here at Centre Stage.

Alex Robinson (Ensemble) is proud to return to Centre Stage for the second time this season. Previous credits include Paul Bratter in Barefoot in the Park (Mill Town Players), Teddy Brewster in Arsenic and Old Lace (Mill Town Players), and Ernst Ludwig in Cabaret (Centre Stage). He hopes you enjoy the show!

Andrew Wilson Jr. (Ensemble) is thrilled to be making his Centre Stage debut, and to be back performing in the Upstate after 14 years of being away! He is a graduate from Anderson University (SC) with his BA in Theatre, and received his MFA in Acting from Regent University!

He has performed in film, television, and professional theatres all over the country! Some of his favorite professional theatre credits include: Chip in 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Vintage Theatre), Crush in Turtle Talk with Crush (Disneyland), Billis in South Pacific (West Virginia Public Theatre) Chorus in Godspell: 2001 (National Tour), Touchstone in As You Like It (Southern California Shakespeare Festival), Ensemble, Dennis/Earl Understudy in All Shook Up (Town Hall Arts Center).

He would like to thank God first and foremost, his wife Natalie for her tremendous love and support, his family, and the team at Centre Stage for this amazing opportunity! You can also catch him in the next Centre Stage production of Murder, Plain and Simple! Enjoy the show!

Helen Joy (Choreographer/Ensemble) was born and raised in England where they began dancing and performing from age 3. Their training at Central School of Ballet, where they earned their BA in Dance, set them up for a spectacular international career. Helen Joy has their MFA in Dance and Creative Practice, alongside a concentration in Lighting Design. They are now the resident dance professor at Furman University.

Helen Joy is overjoyed to be guiding the movement for this show. It has been a delight to work with the talented humans in this show and create something authentic and beautiful.

Helen would like to dedicate this performance to every mother. You are magical, cherished, and loved. Biggest thanks to Mummy Pam and my darling Aurelia.

Recent credits include: Ensemble/Dance Captain in Anastasia, and Ensemble in How To Succeed In Business Without Trying (Greenville Theatre). Choreographer for Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast (Christ Church Episcopal High School). Lighting Designer for The Wild Little Horse (Furman University), Eleemosynary (Centre Stage).

Chris Foster (Ensemble) is thrilled to be back for another show at Centre Stage! Previous acting credits include Guys and Dolls, Mamma Mia, and H2$ (Greenville Theatre); Singing in the Rain, Sisters of Swing, The Addams Family, Spamalot, and The Producers (Centre Stage); and Annie (SCCT). When not on stage, you can find him cutting hair at Chris Foster Hair. And when not cutting hair, Chris is most likely gardening or watching Clemson Softball. Much love and thanks for always supporting me, Mom! Love you, Nick!

Charlotte Gainey (Lulu) is thrilled to make her debut performance at Centre Stage alongside this incredibly talented cast and crew of Waitress. Performance credits include: Flotsam in The Little Mermaid Jr. (World Upside Down Arts Studio), Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol, The Musical (Ignite Theatrical), Ensemble in Frozen Jr. (Ignite Theatrical Youth), Jojo/Cindy Lou Who in Seussical the Musical Jr. (World Upside Down Arts Studio), and Ensemble in Beauty and the Beast Jr. (Magic Curtain Productions). Charlotte has also danced with Integrity Dance Company in Orlando, Florida. She would like to thank all her friends and family for their support and cannot wait to share a “Lulu Lemonade Pie” with them!

PRODUCTIONBIOS

Christopher Rose (Director) is a freelance director and performer. Christopher holds a BA in Communications (Theatre) from Pensacola Christian College and worked as the Associate Artistic Director of Mill Town Players. Previous directorial credits at Centre Stage include When the Rain Stops Falling, Into the Woods, ‘night Mother, The Guys and Legally Blonde: the Musical. He most recently had the privilege of directing Tick, Tick…BOOM! (The Market Theatre), Andrew Lippa’s Wild Party (Mauldin Theatre Company), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Clemson Area Youth Theatre) and A Streetcar Named Desire (Mill Town Players). With Mill Town he was also honored to direct the SCTA and SETC 2018-2019 Community Theatre Festival’s Best Play Romeo and Juliet for which he received the Best Director Award (SCTA), and which represented the Southeastern United States at the AACT Festival where the production received several national awards. In addition, he directed Mill Town’s award-winning production of Of Mice and Men (SCTA, SETC) and their staging of To Kill a Mockingbird for which he was named Best Director of a Play by Carolina Curtain Call’s 2018 Reader’s Choice Awards. At the Market Theatre he directed CABARET (CCC’s Best Director of a Musical 2018 and Musical of the Year 2018). Christopher also helmed The Market’s productions of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Carolina Curtain Call’s Reader’s Choice for best play in 2017. You may have seen Chris in numerous shows in Greenville and across the Upstate. A few of his recent roles include Dan in Next to Normal (The Market), Sweeney in Sweeney Todd (CTA), Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar (GT), Callahan in Legally Blonde (GT), and Henrick in A Little Night Music (TWT) among many others. Christopher is the proud father of Hugh and lives in Easley, SC with his partner Craig and their three fur babies: Dubie, Monroe and Piper.

Chase McAbee (Musical Director) is excited to return to Centre Stage for this show! Chase is a Greenville native and graduate of Furman University. He serves as the Director of Choral Music and Musical Theatre at High Point Academy in Spartanburg, SC where he teaches grades 6-12. He is also on staff at Christ Church Episcopal in Greenville where he works with the Children’s Choirs and oversees the music for their more eclectic “Chapel Service.” Most

recently, he was seen at Mauldin Theatre Company as Beadle Bamford in Sweeney Todd. Additionally, he was company manager/musical director/vocal coach for Elton John’s Aida with Glow Lyric Theatre, Disney’s Lion King Jr & Cinderella at Greer Children’s Theatre, Pippin & The Prom with Furman University’s Theatre Department, Jersey Boys at Market Theatre Co., and Songs for a New World & Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Centre Stage. He would like to thank his parents and his amazing spouse, Chris, for all of their love and support throughout each musical endeavor!

Miranda Lee (Stage Manager) is a Greenville-native-turned-Washington,D.C.-stage-manager who is beyond thrilled to be working in her hometown on a show that means so much to her. She has worked extensively with Olney Theatre Center in Maryland, serving as Assistant Stage Manager on Fiddler on the Roof, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground, Long Way Down, A Christmas Carol, and many other shows. She also works with Imagination Stage in Bethesda, MD, where she most recently worked as Deck Captain on Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood. Additionally, Miranda has served as Production Stage Manager for A Chorus Line and Everybody with GWU Corcoran Theatre & Dance. She holds a B.A. in Theatre and B.S. in Statistics from The George Washington University with minors in Music and Religion.

Benji Shuba (Assistant Stage Manager) This is Benji's second show working backstage at Centre Stage. His first show at this theater was Legally Blonde and is thrilled to be a part of this production of Waitress. For his most recent show, Benji was the assistant stage manager for Anastasia at Greenville Theater.

Benji is an avid supporter of queer identities and queer representation in the arts. He is one of the founding chair members of their employer's LGBTQIA+ employee resource group, Safe Space. When Benji isn't at the theater, you can usually find them baking a cake or trying out a new sourdough recipe.

Kasidy Brooks (Production Assistant) Born and raised in Greenville, Kasidy is a graduate of Clemson University with a BA in English Literature. She and her family are long time patrons of the theatre, and she is honored to debut as a PA with Centre Stage for this production. Kasidy is incredibly grateful to be a part of Waitress, and is thrilled for audiences to see such amazing talent.

She would love to send thanks to her family, for encouraging her to join the show, and to the cast and crew, who welcomed her, and from whom she has learned so much.

Helen Joy (Choreographer/Ensemble) see more in Cast Bios.

Craig Smith (Set Designer/Dr. Pomatter) see more in Cast Bios.

Jenny Bennett (Costume Designer) started working with costumes as a parent volunteer over 12 years ago for her kids' shows. She quickly found a passion for it and continues to costume shows around the upstate, even though the kids are grown. You may have also seen her in the lobby on the way in as the Patron Services Manager for Centre Stage. Past credits include: Winter Wonderettes, Legally Blonde, Four Seasons, Summer Breezin', Buddy : The Buddy Holly Story and Miracle on 34th Street (Centre Stage), Newsies, Something Rotten, Cats for young performers and High School Musical Jr (Mauldin Theatre Company) and Disney's Descendants, The Little Mermaid Jr, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen Jr, Annie and many more (Greer Children's Theatre).

Eliot Thomas (Props Designer) Monster Maker, Obsessive Replicator or Prop Master; whatever you call him, don't call him late for dinner. This is his 8th production at Centre Stage.

Baking is hard enough, but baking 20 fake pies is a challenge in itself. "If you want to take a bite from inches away or the back row, then my job is done." Eliot would like to thank his incredible partner Isabella for being his cobaker.

Dakota Adams (Light Designer) is thrilled to be working with Centre Stage for the first time! Dakota is a Spartanburg based Director and Designer. He holds his BA in Theatre Arts from Furman University. Most recently, he designed lights and set for 110 in The Shade at Footlighters Theatre in Philadelphia! Up next, Dakota is directing Urinetown: The Musical, also at Footlighters Theatre! Select design credits include: The Legend of Georgia McBride (The Warehouse Theatre); Carmen and Handmaids Tale: The Opera (Glow Lyric Theatre); Ella Enchanted (Synchronicity Theatre, Atlanta); The Addams Family Musical, Into the Woods, Little Shop of Horrors (Steel River Playhouse, Pottstown, PA) Directing credits include: Dearly Departed and Six

Conversations About Father Fay (Allen’s Lane Theatre, Philly); Paradise Park: The Musical (Theatre West Virginia); Peter and the Starcatcher (Steel River Playhouse, PA); August Osage County (Footlighters Theatre, Philly); Aida (Governor Mifflin High School, PA)

Makenzie Watson (Scenic Artist) graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Fine Art Painting and Production Design. During her experience at SCAD, she worked on sets for the Mondanaro Theatre and SCAD Atlanta XR stage. She has since worked as a scenic field painter for theme parks working on various projects for Universal Studios. Kenzie is originally from Greenville and has moved back to continue her scenic painting career. Kenzie has previously worked on Peter and the Starcatcher and Cabaret for Centre Stage. When she isn't painting sets, she is working on her personal Fine artwork which has been showcased across SC, NC, GA, NY, and France.

You might have seen some of her work at local galleries such as Good Art Co. Greenville, Artist Guild of Gallery of Greenville, and Artisphere's annual Upstate Juried Exhibition.

Samael Lazarus (Spot Light Operator) (he/they) is a theatre artist pursuing his passion for storytelling in the local community. He has experience in varied roles both onstage and backstage, and views every moment within the theatrical process as a chance to truly make magic through art.

Some recent technical credits include Spotlight Operator for Cabaret (Centre Stage), Backstage Crew in Peter and the Starcatcher (Centre Stage) and Set Constructor (Bob Jones University and Upstate Shakespeare Festival). Samael would like to thank his chosen family for their treasured love and support.

Kat J. (Spotlight Operator) A native Greenvillian, Kat is a passionate theatre practitioner. Some of their favorite roles include Glory in Traveler in the Dark, Henrietta Leavitte in Silent Sky, and Mary Bennet in Christmas at Pemberly (Tryon Little Theatre). They’ve previously spotted for 9 to 5 and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story with Centre Stage.

Colin Moroney (Light Board-Operator) is a current student at Clemson University studying Lighting Design and Stage Management. Colin is an active artist working in the Greenville area and has worked with other theatres such as The Warehouse Theatre and with The Mill Town Players. Colin gives thanks to his peers and faculty at Clemson for pushing him to become better.

Bess Bergin (Dresser/Backstage Crew) is honored to be able to work with the amazing cast and crew that have brought Waitress to you tonight! This is her first experience with Centre Stage, and while she is normally seen on stage, she has always been fascinated with what goes on behind the scenes! You may have seen her in the ensemble in Sweeney Todd (Mauldin Theatre Company), as well as Spiker in James and the Giant Peach, Cindy Barnes in Hands on a Hardbody, and Mary Delgado in Jersey Boys (Market Theatre). She hopes that you enjoy this truly amazing show, and that you’ll be enthralled in the story!

AUTHORBIOS

Jessie Nelson wrote the musical Waitress with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles. The show played on Broadway for 4 years and moved to the West End in London. Sara and Jessie went on to create the show Little Voice which they Executive Produced with JJ Abrams for Apple TV. Jessie wrote, directed and produced Corrina Corrina and I Am Sam staring Sean Penn, who received an Academy Award nomination for his performance. Among her other directing credits are Curb Your Enthusiasm and Love, the Coopers with Diane Keaton. Her writing credits include Step Mom and The Story of Us. She produced Fred Claus and Danny Collins. In London, Jessie directed Alice By Heart which she co-wrote with Steven Sater with music by Duncan Sheik at the National Theater Connections Program and again at MCC in NYC. She began her career as an actress at the Public Theater working with the awardwinning experimental theater Mabou Mines and at the New York Shakespeare Festival. She wrote the children's book Labracadabra. She has been the artistic Director of the Sundance Screen Writers Lab.

Sara Bareilles can next be seen starring in the upcoming Tina Fey's series, GIRLS5EVA. Bareilles first achieved mainstream critical praise in 2007 with her widely successful hit "Love Song,” which reached No. 1 in 22 countries around the world from her debut album Little Voice. Since then, Sara has gone on to receive seven Grammy® nominations throughout her career, which include Song of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “Love Song” and one Album of the Year for her highly acclaimed third studio album, The Blessed Unrest. Her book, Sounds Like Me: My Life (So Far) in Song, was released in the fall of 2015 by Simon & Schuster and is a New York Times best seller. Making her Broadway debut Sara composed the music and lyrics for Waitress, for which she received her first Tony® Award nomination for Best Score and a 2017 Grammy® Award nomination for Best Musical Theater Album. She also made her Broadway acting debut in 2017 by stepping into the lead role in Waitress. 2018 was a big year for Sara, she co-hosted the Tony Awards®, was nominated for an Emmy® and Grammy ® for her role in Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert and was awarded with the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s Hal David Starlight Award. Sara also teamed up with Apple as an executive producer for Little Voice a 10-episode series, for which she created the original music. What’s Inside: Songs from Waitress, her most recent

solo studio album, is out on Epic Records. On April 5, 2019 Sara released her fifth full-length and first album of original material since 2013, entitled Amidst the Chaos. For this latest body of work, she joined forces in the studio with legendary Academy® Award-winning producer T Bone Burnett. As a result, the album spotlights her voice as a singer and storyteller like never before, while making an enduring statement.

ADRIENNE SHELLY. We celebrate Adrienne Shelly as the writer of the 2007 film Waitress. An actor (Trust) and director (Waitress, I’ll Take You There, Sudden Manhattan) for almost 20 years, she conceived the film while pregnant with her daughter Sophie (Lulu in the film), for whom she wrote it as a “love letter” in just two weeks. Adrienne’s legacy includes The Adrienne Shelly Foundation, created after she died in 2006 to support Women Filmmakers. It’s awarded 60+ production grants to talented women all over the world. Please visit www.adrienneshellyfoundation.org to honor Adrienne’s memory and support ASF’s critical artistic mission.

Sony Music Publishing, established in 1995 as a joint venture between Sony and Michael Jackson, is the world's leading music publisher. Sony owns or administers more than two million copyrights, including those from such iconic music catalogs as EMI Music Publishing, Leiber & Stoller, Mijac Music, Motown and Famous Music. Sony controls many of the best-known songs ever written, including "New York, New York," "All You Need Is Love," "You've Got a Friend," "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," "Over the Rainbow" and "Stand By Me." In addition, Sony represents the copyrights of such legendary artists as The Beatles, Leonard Cohen, Neil Diamond, Bob Dylan, Michael Jackson, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, Queen, The Rolling Stones, Sting, The Supremes, Hank Williams and Stevie Wonder, among others. Its ever-growing list of chart-topping artists and songwriters includes Alicia Keys, Lady Gaga, P!nk, Shakira, and Taylor Swift.

STAFFBIOS

Laura Nicholas (Managing Artistic Director) brings a dynamic blend of artistic vision and leadership to Centre Stage, where she serves as Managing Artistic Director. A recipient of the prestigious 40 Under 40 award, she is recognized for her impact on the arts and her dedication to cultivating a thriving cultural community. She holds an MFA in Directing and has extensive experience in both directing and set design, with a particular focus on creating innovative work for the thrust stage.

Under her leadership, Centre Stage has continued its multi-decade tradition of the New Play Festival, championing new work by artists from across the country, and the Fringe Festival, producing smaller, socially resonant works. She has also led the theatre in acquiring multiple new works for the mainstage season, including several regional premieres expanding the company’s artistic reach and impact.

Directing credits at Centre Stage include Next to Normal, Singin’ in the Rain, Clue: On Stage, and My Way: A Tribute to Frank Sinatra.

Some of her favorite set design credits include Cabaret, Rockin’ Boots, Legally Blonde, and Fences.

As always, Laura is thankful for the opportunity to work alongside the incredible local artists both on staff and by production who bring these stories to life.

TJ Hills (Technical Director/Audio Engineer) was born in Decatur Illinois but had the opportunity to live in five different states by the time he graduated high school. After high school he moved back to Atlanta to pursue a degree in aviation. While in Atlanta, he served as a production technician, sound engineer and broadcast director with Northpoint Ministries and a few of their strategic partners around the Atlanta area. TJ calls the south home and lived in Atlanta for many years before moving to Greenville with his wife and two children. TJ has always loved live show production and is excited to turn his passion into a career with Centre Stage.

Jenny Bennett (Patron Services Manager/Costume Designer) was born in Murray, KY and relocated to Greenville with her husband and 2 children in 2006. She has a BA in Business from Murray State University. She began working with local theatres several years ago costuming shows that her

children were in and found a real passion for all things theatre related. At Centre Stage she has found a place that combines both her customer service and management experience with her love of theatre. She hopes to see you at a show soon!

Samantha Jemmott (Production Manager) has been working as both a performer and technician for over a decade. After graduating from Marywood University with a BA in Musical Theatre, she worked with several regional theatres throughout the East Coast and Midwest. Previous Centre Stage work includes Stage Management for BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY, MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, and 9 TO 5, and Performing as Paulette in LEGALLY BLONDE. Other local credits include: Stage Managing: ASM for MS. HOLMES AND MS. WATSON (Warehouse), SM for CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (Greenville), SM for SORDID LIVES (Proud Mary); Performing: Lucinda in INTO THE WOODS (Greenville), Lauren in KINKY BOOTS (Proud Mary), Bea in SOMETHING ROTTEN (Greenville), Dragon and Gingy in SHREK (Market) and The Witch in INTO THE WOODS (Market); Costume Designs: LEGALLY BLONDE (Hendersonville), TREASURE ISLAND (Montford Park Players), CHARLOTTE’S WEB (South Carolina Children’s Theatre), ONCE (Centre Stage), and NUNSENSE (Hendersonville).

Samantha Cole (Marketing & Engagement Manager) is a creative professional passionate about storytelling, design, and the performing arts. With a diverse background in multimedia marketing, costuming, and theatrical production, she thrives at the intersection of creativity and organization. Previous Centre Stage work includes Costume Designer for PETER AND THE STARCATCHER and ROCKIN’ BOOTS. Before joining Centre Stage, Samantha worked in multimedia marketing, brand development, and content creation, helping businesses craft compelling narratives through digital media.

Samantha holds a BA in Theatre Arts, Theatre Performance from Appalachian State University and is currently pursuing an MBA in Digital Brand Communications at Clemson University. When not working at Centre Stage, she is a fiber artist, avid reader, dog mom, & tattoo lover.

SEASONSPONSORS

CENTRESTAGEPARTNERS

As of April 18, 2025

Ruby Partner ($15,000+)

Beverley Kennett and James

Smith Whitten Charitable Trust

Hughes Investments

Mary Ireland Murphy Estate

Metropolitan Arts Council

South Carolina Arts Commission

The Shubert Foundation

WineHouse

Producing Partner

($10,000 - $14,999)

AFL Global City of Greenville

Daniel-Mickel Foundation

Jack Depriester

Maynard Nexsen

Rolling Green Village

Presenting Partner

($5,000 - $9,999)

Community Foundation

Community Journals

First Citizens Bank

Greenville County

Directing Partner

($2,500 - $4,999)

Bradshaw, Gordon, & Clinkscales

Courtyard Marriott of Downtown

Greenville

Forge Construction

Pam & Lee Foster

Peabody Foundation

Spotlight Partner

($1000 - $2,499)

Bob Dibella & Carol Savage

Bonnie Jilek

David & Ginny Hoppenworth

Elizabeth Ann Hayes

Hart Tools

Jake Cluverius

Joe & Ann Jennings

Nason Accounting LLC

Rebecca & Doug Donivan

Backstage Partner

($500 - $999)

Industry Event Rentals

Jaime & Susan Cruz

Michael & Robin Aleksinas

Mr Stephen Bell

Patricia S Shufeldt

Westin Poinsett

Offstage Partner

($100 - $499)

A J Jester

Anne Risdon

Bernardine Atkins

Berry & Julie Garrett

Bev & Bob Howard

BJ Koonce

Bob Morris

Cecile Workman

Chris Wiggins

Cynthia Gibson

CENTRESTAGEPARTNERS

As of April 18, 2025

David Guzman

Derek Enderlin

Diane Doolittle

Diane W Dalbo

Dr Michael Morrow-Fox

Dr. Glen Halva-Neubauer

Duncan Kennedy

Elizabeth Jordan

Ellie & John Mioduski

George Hammond

Gower Gardeners

John & Sylvia Peters

John Brock

John Cuturilo

John Fagan & Jack Ashton

Katharine Williams

Kathleen Sargent

Kevin & Julie Treu

Lee & Pam Foster

Leon & Irene Friedman

Lillian Keeling

Lori Morton

Martha Team

Matt & Carol Carson

Matthew and Elsbeth Chaney

Michael Lackey

Mr Walker Birdsong

Pat Garren

Pearlie Harris

Peggy & Larry Comereski

Randy Whitworth

Rebecca Schmale

Robert & Bobbie Cancelliere

Ronald LaMascus

Stanley Crowe

Taylor Roy Terry & Ginny Botruff

Bakery Off Augusta

Domino’s Pizza

Leopard Forest Coffee

McPhail Animal Hospital

THANKYOU!

Centre Stage has been a vibrant cultural hub in the Upstate since 1983, thanks to passionate supporters like you! Your generosity fuels our impact let’s keep transforming our community together! https://centrestage.org/support/ donate/

SUPPORTCENTRESTAGE

Your donations not only fill community needs, but they also ensure the continued success of Centre Stage. While we realize there are so many worthy causes to donate to, we would appreciate anything you are able to give.

No gift is too small!

By donating to the theatre, you make a REAL IMPACT on our excellent, year-round programming. Your investment goes directly to:

Cast fees for over 250 local artists and crew members

Rights & Royalties Fees

Set Building Materials

Production Design Fees

Costumes

Marketing & Print materials

Musical Tracks

Equipment Rentals

Staffing Needs

Visiting Artists

ABOUTCENTRESTAGE

Mission

Centre Stage’s mission is to captivate audiences through diverse programming, cultivate local artistry, and inspire community collaboration.

History

Founded in 1983, by Douglas P. McCoy (1937-2005), Centre Stage is a year-round, 285-seat regional theater offering a wide range of entertainment within easy walking distance of historic Falls Park and the many shops and restaurants that line downtown Greenville’s Main Street corridor. Augmenting its subscription season of music, comedy, and drama, the theater also hosts art exhibitions and other special events inside the performance facility noted for its unique configuration, comfort and intimacy.