Hickory – Due to popular demand, Waitress, the smash-hit musical currently running at Hickory Community Theatre, has been extended through Saturday, June 28. Performances take place in the Jeffers Theatre at 7:30pm on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a gifted pie baker stuck in an unhappy marriage, who dreams of a better life for herself and her unborn child. With humor, heart, and the support of her fellow waitresses, Jenna embarks on a journey of self-discovery, a new romance, and a high-stakes baking contest that could change everything.
Directed by Eric Seale, with musical direction by Jeff Hartman and choreography by Gina Duckworth, the production features music and lyrics by Grammy Award-winner Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson.
Making his Hickory Community Theatre debut as the charmingly awkward Dr. Pomatter is Hayden Waugh. A Mooresville resident and Communications and Marketing Operations Specialist at Trane Technologies, Waugh brings a wealth of regional theatre experience to the role, with past credits including The Music Man, Godspell, Legally Blonde, and more.
“I love that no matter how messy things get, you can still turn your life into something beautiful,” says Waugh. “And Pomatter is such a joy to play—so sincere, so quirky, and wonderfully awkward.”
Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students and youth. They are available online at hickorytheatre.org/waitress or by calling the box office at 828-328-2283.
This production is sponsored by Alex Lee, Inc. and is recommended for ages 13 and up.
Volunteer Opportunities Available
Volunteers are also needed for the final performance of Waitress on Saturday, June 28. Those interested in helping out should call 828-327-3855 ext 102 or email volunteers@hickorytheatre.org. In addition to helping out with the cause, these volunteers can also stay and see the show for free.
Additionally, community members are encouraged to pitch in for HCT’s upcoming Clean-Up Days on July 12 & 13, as the theatre prepares to host this year’s North Carolina Theatre Conference Producing Gathering. For more information contact Eric Seale, Artistic Director, at 828-327-3855 ext 104 or email eric@hickorytheatre.org.
More Than Just a Seat: How a Flex Pass Supports More Than Just a Show
When you buy a flex pass at Hickory Community Theatre, you’re doing more than reserving seats—you’re becoming part of something bigger.
Every performance in the theatre creates a moment. It might be the joy of a shared laugh, the hush before a secret is revealed, or the quiet realization that—for a couple of hours—you’re part of something rare and deeply human.
That’s the power of live theatre. And it doesn’t happen without you.
A flex pass is just that, a flexible pass that lets you choose the shows you want and the specific performance, you can even share it with your friends. They come in denominations of three, four or five admissions each. For those age 60 and above there is also an eight admission senior pass.
Flex pass purchases help us plan ahead, pay our team fairly, welcome new artists, and keep this historic building vibrant. They bring students, seniors, families, and first-time theatre-goers through our doors. They give us the freedom to take creative risks—and the stability to weather rising costs.
So when you buy a flex pass, you’re not just getting a night out. You’re helping build a season of laughter, connection, growth, and joy.
Season 77 is on the way. Reserve your place in the story. Call 828-327-3855 or email boxoffice@hickorytheatre.org today.
PHOTO: Carol Anne Hartman as Jenna and Hayden Waugh as Dr. Pomatter in Waitress. Photo by Ken Burns.
