Producers have announced a new replica production of Waitress the Musical will open in The Netherlands, visiting the country’s largest theatres from September 2020.

Willemijn Verkaik will star in the leading role of Jenna for the upcoming tour, most famous for playing the role of Elphaba in Wicked both in three languages; in English, on the West End and on Broadway, in Dutch across The Netherlands and in German in Germany.

“I saw Waitress a couple of years ago on Broadway. I was immediately impressed by the musical and the amazing music written by Sara Bareilles for which she received a Grammy Award nomination, which was well deserved. The role of Jenna is a role that challenges me, especially vocally. I am looking forward to introducing the Netherlands to this beautiful musical that has all the right ingredients,” said Willemijn.

Sara Bareilles said: “It is a dream come true to see Waitress travel around the world! To see this beautiful show have a life like this is more than I ever could have imagined! We are so proud to share the story of Jenna with a whole new audience and welcome them into the world of Waitress with open arms and plenty of pie.”

Iris van den Ende, producer at Medialane, who are bringing the show to The Netherlands in association with original Broadway producers Barry & Fran Weissler, said: “I am extremely proud that, after Broadway and West End, we received the trust of the American production company to bring this romantic comedy to the Netherlands. Waitress tells a story that a lot of women can identify with. It is full of humour and romance but it also has an edge. The music is beautiful, modern pop and I am confident that Willemijn, with her talent and international experience, is going to blow us away.”