Cal
Cal is the chef and manager of Lulu’s Pies, formerly Joe’s Pie Diner, a diner located in the American south. The diner specialises in the sale of freshly-baked pies, cooked on the premises every day, many of which are uniquely invented by diner owner, Jenna Hunterson.
Background and Story
Cal was raised in his father’s footsteps, with a strong work ethic and a ‘make do’ attitude. He is the manager and chef of Joe’s Pie Diner, married to Ethel, whom he thinks is gay as they haven’t slept together in 15 years. He embarks on an affair with Becky, which is discovered by Jenna, who is also having an affair of her own. At the wedding of Dawn and Ogie, Jenna asks Cal if he is happy. He replies he is ‘happy enough’, saying, “I don’t give much, I don’t get much, but I do try to enjoy whatever comes up.”
Songs
A solo song for Cal was written by Sara Bareilles for inclusion, entitled ‘Happy Enough‘, which didn’t make the final show.
A further song was written, entitled ‘Down At The Diner‘, which also didn’t make the show.
Actors/Actreses
The role of Cal was originally played by Eric Anderson in both the American Repertory Theater and Broadway productions.
In London’s West End, the role was originated by Stephen Leask.
Broadway
- Eric Anderson
- Joe Cassidy – 3 January 2017 – 19 February 2017
- Eric Anderson – 21 February 2017 – 17 December 2017
- Benny Elledge – 19 December 2017 – 8 July 2018
- Joe Cassidy – 10 July 2018 – 29 July 2019
- Benny Elledge – 31 July 2018 – 5 January 2020
Max Kumangai and Law Terrell Dunford have played the role of Cal during cast holidays/absence.
West End
- Stephen Leask
- Richard Taylor Woods 25 November 2019 – 14 March 2020
Chris McGuigan and Mark Willshire have played the role of Cal during cast holidays/absence.
Other
- First National Tour (North America) – Ryan G. Dunkin
- 2019/20 North America Tour – Jake Mills
- Manila – Dean Rosen
- Buenos Aires – Christian Alladio
- Netherlands –
| Name | Cal |
| Occupation | Lulu’s Pies, Manager Joe’s Pie Diner, Manager |
| Spouse | Ethel |
| Original Cast | Eric Anderson Broadway Stephen Leask West End Ryan G. Dunkin First National Tour |