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Jennifer Nettles is heading to Broadway!
On Thursday (September 23), the Sugarland singer announced she'll be taking on the lead role in the hit Broadway musical Waitress. While she's best known for her country music career, Nettles has also done some acting over the years. She appeared in Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors, Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love and Harriet.
"It is an absolute dream. There are so many layers to Waitress that make it so meaningful to me," she said in a statement. "It is heart-warming, heart-breaking at times, and absolutely heart-inspiring. I’m thrilled to be able to finally get to wear the apron,” she said in a statement. I hope everyone will come check it out, because I know I will be having a grand time.”
Nettles also took to Instagram to share the happy news. "BROADWAY IS BACK BABY, and so am I," she gleefully shouted from the proverbial rooftop. "I am thrilled to be joining the cast of [Waitress] as Jenna...You all know how much I love my girl [Sara Bareillis]. I can’t wait to put on the apron, play this beautiful role and sing her amazing songs every night. It truly is a dream come true! Come join me!!!"
For those who may not be up on their Broadway musicals, Waitress is a stage adaptation of the 2007 film of the same name. It was adapted for Broadway by Sara Bareilles and Jessie Nelson. Bareilles is currently starring in the lead role of Jenna Hunterson, a baker and waitress struggling in an abusive relationship with her husband Earl.
Bareillis' final performance as Jenna will be on October 17. Nettles will take over from October 19th through November 24th. Waitress is back on Broadway for a limited run through January 9, 2022 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre.