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What Writing Can Do: The 2025 Musical Theatre Critics Lab

The Grand and Theatre Aquarius' production of Waitress. iPhoto caption: Photo by Dahlia Katz.

REVIEW: Waitress blends retro charm with contemporary flair at Hamilton’s Theatre Aquarius

This co-production with the Grand Theatre stands up to its Broadway counterpart and makes for a truly delightful night out.

By Deanne Kearney / May 6, 2025
Kamyar Pazandeh and Julia McLellan in 'Waitress.' iPhoto caption: Kamyar Pazandeh and Julia McLellan in 'Waitress.' Photo by Dahlia Katz.

‘Props come with no instructions’: How the Grand and Theatre Aquarius’ Waitress brings diner food to the stage

Ahead of the musical’s upcoming run at Hamilton’s Theatre Aquarius, I spoke with the production’s props and scenic design department to find out how they’re making the pie magic happen.

By Amanda Cosby-Nesbitt / Apr 23, 2025
Production photo of Waitress at the Grand Theatre. iPhoto caption: Photo by Dahlia Katz.

REVIEW: How does the American musical Waitress land in today’s Canada? It’s complicated

The Theatre Aquarius and Grand Theatre co-production is fascinating for its attempt to harness the pleasures of the Broadway musical form, while casting an awkward-stepping jaundiced eye at fantasies of American identity.

By Gwen Caughell / Apr 3, 2025
Genny Sermonia. iPhoto caption: Photo by Colton Curtis Photography.

Genny Sermonia sweetens the pot as choreographer of Waitress

When Genny mentions that her brother Julius is part of the ensemble, I smell a story cooking — so I attend a rehearsal at the Grand Theatre to watch the duo in action.

By Treasa Levasseur / Mar 25, 2025