Back in 1927, a new musical form was introduced to the theatre-going public. “Showboat,” according to “The Complete Book of Light Opera,” was a “radical departure in musical storytelling, marrying spectacle with seriousness, compared with the trivial and unrealistic operettas, light musical comedies and follies- type musical revues that defined Broadway in the 1890s and early 20th century. … Here we come to a completely new genre – the musical play as distinguished from musical comedy.”

And now, nearly a century later, Shadowland Stages continues in that noble and successful tradition by presenting “Waitress,” with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson.

“Waitress” tells the story of Jenna, a server and expert pie maker who works in a small-town diner. She’s stuck in a loveless and abusive marriage, and dreams of opening her own pie shop. Faced with an unexpected pregnancy, Jenna fears her goals may be out of reach, until a pie contest in a nearby county and the surprise arrival of a charming new doctor offer a tempting recipe for happiness.

Expertly directed by Shadowland’s Managing Director Brittany Proia, with resourceful choreography by Andrew Geller Karl, musical direction by Nathan Perry, skillful stage management by Nicole Caroselli, creative set design by Noel Carey with technical direction from Peter Johnson, mood-evoking lighting by Jeremy Johnson, and period-perfect costumes by Chris English, “Waitress” is a perfect example of the modern-era musical play.

Madeline Fansler plays Jenna with a flawless mixture of fervor and joy for her baking, fear of what life might have in store, and dreams for a future. Her strong, clear voice brings raw emotion to her songs and sincere passion to her feelings.

Brandi Knox and Lizzy Cenicola star as Becky and Dawn, Jenna’s co-workers and ever-so-faithful friends, supporting her every step of the way. Becky is tough, Dawn is timid, and the three perform together so well you’d think they were sisters who intuitively discern each other’s thoughts and feelings.

Austin Mirsoltani portrays the new doctor with boyish charm and adorable awkwardness. And then there’s Mark Mazzarella as Earl, Jenna’s cruel and sometimes abusive husband, who plays his part so flawlessly that he actually got booed during a curtain call - a testament to his talent as an actor.

Nathaniel Ancheta is Dawn’s romantic interest Ogie, a geek who enjoys magic and American Revolution reenactments. His high-energy performance contributes to some of the funniest and sweetest moments in the show.

Aaron Mitchum is Cal, Jenna’s tough but tender boss. He is sorely outnumbered by the ladies, but takes it all with a grain of salt in a good-natured way.

Ray Faiola portrays Joe, the owner of the diner where Jenna, Dawn, Becky and Cal work. Joe is a no-nonsense kind of guy, tall and imposing, hard-nosed and demanding. But it’s not giving anything away by saying there’s a smoother layer underneath the gruffness, and Faiola pulls it off delightfully.

Other supporting cast members are Lindsay O’Neil, Bree Ogaldez, Felicity Donavan and Lilly Morris all who contribute to a fine ensemble performance.

Eighteen powerful musical numbers are supported by musicians Nathan Perry (conductor/keyboard), Paul Miller (guitar), Barry Wiesenfeld (bass), Tom Venable (drums) and Caitlin Thomas (cello/guitar).

The entire ensemble works together cohesively and smoothly to whisk together the ingredients of acting, singing and staging into this well-made musical play.

“Waitress: will run Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. through August 24 at Shadowland Stages, 157 Canal Street in Ellenville. Tickets may be purchased online at shadowlandstages.org or by calling the box office at 845-647-5511.