PCPA is serving up the hit musical “Waitress,” a heartwarming story about love, liberation, and the pursuit of dreams, to the Central Coast, April 24-May 11 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria, and June 19-July 6 at Solvang Festival Theater.

With book by Jessie Nelson, music and lyrics by Grammy Award winner Sara Bareilles, ‘Waitress’ is based on the motion picture written by Adrienne Shelly.

The show is about Jenna, a waitress and talented pie-maker, who dreams of a way out of her small town and rocky marriage.

Finding comfort and creativity in her pies, Jenna channels her hopes and frustrations into her delicious creations.

Joined by her two loyal friends and fellow waitresses Becky and Dawn, who also dream of a better life, Jenna embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

When she meets a charming doctor, sparks fly, igniting a passionate romance that challenges Jenna to redefine her path.

“‘Waitress’ is the kind of story I love and that PCPA excels in telling; it’s filled with heart and humanity,” said director Kitty Balay. “We get to see ourselves in a cast of likable, imperfect characters who try their best but sometimes make terrible choices.

“We get to laugh at their foolishness, cry at their pain, and rejoice when they overcome the odds, whether it’s ill-fated relationships, an unwanted pregnancy, or just plain old loneliness.

“And to make it even better, the story soars with a driving, melodic score, gorgeous harmonies, and luscious pie.

“I must give a special shout-out to our legendary prop director, Tim Hogan,” Balay said. “He and his team of extraordinary artists in the prop shop have hand-crafted pies that look delicious enough to eat. 

The creative team includes Balay, musical director Jake Cannon, costume designer Caroline Rein, lighting designer Michael Palumbo, scenic designer Jason Bolen, sound designer Jon Zielke, intimacy director Shae Palic, and stage manager Jack D. Myles.

Cast members are Molly Dobbs as Jenna, Bethany Thomas as Becky, Natalie Mara as Dawn, Alexander Pimentel as Dr. Pomatter, Cordell Cole as Earl, Erik Stein as Cal, George Walker as Ogie, Andrew Philpot as Joe; young performers Amelia Mello, Petra Van Wingerden, and Juliette Crawford as Lulu, Jamie Collins as Nurse Norma/Ensemble, and the Ensemble cast of conservatory students.

The onstage band features Jake Cannon as conductor and on keyboard, Renee Ortega on guitar, Evan Goldman on drums, Christi Mariscal on bass, and Nancy Nagano, Ben Williams and Gavin Koon on cello.

For tickets, visit pcpa.org or call the box office, 805-922-8313. Groups of of 12 or more can save 25%-30%. For more, call Kelly Stegall, 805-928-7731 ext. 4150.