Hickory – The diner is open and the buzz is real. Hickory Community Theatre’s production of Waitress kicked off its run with a sold-out opening weekend, and audiences are raving about the heartfelt performances, toe-tapping score, and the powerful bond between three unforgettable women.

At the heart of the story are Becky, Jenna, and Dawn—played with warmth and depth by C.C. Cooper, Carol Anne Hartman, and Ally Teeples. These three actors bring a genuine chemistry to the stage, capturing the strength, humor, and resilience of female friendship in a way that’s both uplifting and deeply moving.

The musical follows Jenna, a waitress and expert pie-maker stuck in a small-town diner and a difficult marriage. With the help of her loyal coworkers Becky and Dawn, she finds the courage to dream again and reclaim her life. Together, the trio anchors the show with standout performances that have quickly made Waitress the talk of the town.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this smash-hit musical, returning to the stage this weekend at Hickory Community Theatre. Performances are Friday through Sunday, June 13–15, and tickets are going fast.

Performances run June 6–21, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:30pm, and a Thursday show on June 19. Tickets are $18 for adults, $10 for youth and students. Tickets may be purchased online at hickorytheatre.org or by calling 828-328-2283.

This production is sponsored by Alex Lee, Inc. and is recommended for ages 13 and up.

HCT is a Funded Affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba. Our 76th season is made possible by A Cleaner World, Protection Products, Inc., Shurtape Technologies, BelleAge, Covington Dental, and LifeRootz. The theatre also receives sustaining support from the North Carolina Arts Council, part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Workout Class Returns

The popular Broadway Body Positivity workout class returns on Thursday, June 10 at 7pm. Led by HCT Education Director Kelsey Kott, this next class will be the return of the popular Hamilton theme night. There is no fee for this class and registration is not required. Participants should come in workout attire and bring a water bottle and a towel. It’s a fun time but it’s still a workout. For further information email kelsey@hickorytheatre.org.

Photo: From left: C.C. Cooper, Carol Anne Hartman, and Ally Teeples keep the diner singing in Waitress. The smash-hit musical returns this weekend at the Hickory Community Theatre. Performances are Friday through Sunday, June 13–15. Tickets are going fast. Photo by Ken Burns.