Playhouse 22 in East Brunswick opened its doors Friday night for The Cake, a comedy-drama that manages to be both laugh-out-loud funny and unexpectedly heartfelt.
Written by Bekah Brunstetter, the play follows Della, a vivacious, conservative North Carolina baker who’s forced to question her beliefs when Jen — a woman she loves like a daughter — asks her to bake the cake for her same-sex wedding.
What unfolds is a story that blends humor, humanity, and just the right touch of tension. The script invites the audience to see both sides of faith and love colliding in today’s world. At its heart, The Cake explores the disconnect between generations — how deeply held beliefs can clash with modern values. Macy tries, with patience but growing frustration, to help Della see how her views might no longer fit the world around her, while Della stands firm in the convictions that have guided her all her life. The moment isn’t about proving a point — it’s about recognizing how people can see the same situation through completely different lenses, yet still care deeply for one another. There are a few moments of playful grown-up humor — the kind that earns laughs without ever feeling over the top — and the audience responded with genuine laughter from start to finish.
The Cake runs through November 23 at Playhouse 22 in East Brunswick.
Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m. | Sundays 2 p.m.
The production features an outstanding cast that brought heart, humor, and nuance to the stage.
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Meg Waldowski as Della, the baker at the center of it all, gives a performance that’s equal parts warmth and conviction.
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Rob Capici as Tim adds humor and humanity.
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Ashley Griffiths shines as Jen, the bride-to-be torn between love and loyalty.
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Tara Hines as Macy brings the perfect amount of wit and strength.
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Nigel Rogers rounds out the cast as the inner “Voice of George,” delivering humor with perfect timing.
Behind the scenes, director Bill Fikaris and producers Angela Dohl and Jennifer Moffett led a creative crew that turned the intimate Playhouse 22 stage into a charming Southern bake shop.
Muriel Rand, Catherine Rand, and Katie Kane handled costumes with style; Dorothy and Frank Bitetto designed and built the set; Dawn Zaleski stage-managed; and Katie Sillitti guided the show’s intimacy direction with a thoughtful touch.
The lighting and sound design by Rachel Druker and Marc Rogol added warmth and polish to the production.
👥 A Community Effort Worth Celebrating
Playhouse 22 operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers.
The organization is led by President Pete Matseur, Vice President/Director of Operations Adam Neary, Treasurer Angela Dohl, and Secretary Andrea Polselli, with Letitia D. Townes serving as Artistic Director and Jennifer Moffett as Executive Producer.
Their commitment, along with the energy of repertory members — including Dorothy Bitetto, Matt Nickles, Kelly Rayner-Townes, Lisa Rogol, Marc Rogol, and Jeff Seesselberg — keeps East Brunswick’s community theater thriving.
🔧 The Magic Behind the Scenes
After the curtain call, guests enjoyed a dessert reception featuring a real wedding cake — a sweet nod to the show’s theme.
Following dessert, Adam Neary led a backstage tour highlighting the craftsmanship that brings Playhouse 22 productions to life.
Carpenter Vince Markei described how the bakery set’s pieces were built to be both sturdy and lightweight, and Paul Porowski explained how he created the realistic faux cakes and pastries using spackle, foam, and dollar-store finds — a creative blend of artistry and resourcefulness that left guests impressed.
The evening ended with laughter and conversation — the kind of genuine connection that defines community theater.
🎟 Coming Soon to Playhouse 22
Playhouse 22’s 2025–2026 season continues its tradition of thought-provoking and diverse performances:
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A Merry Little Christmas Carol — Dec 12–21 2025
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Yes, Virginia — Jan 16–25 2026
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Althea & Angela — Feb 13–22 2026
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Cry It Out — Mar 6–15 2026
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August Wilson’s Fences — Apr 17–May 3 2026
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Jagged Little Pill (Musical) — Jun 12–28 2026
Tickets and season subscriptions are available at Playhouse22.org or by calling (732) 254-3939.
🧁 Eyes on EB Applauds Playhouse 22
Eyes on EB applauds Playhouse 22 for another memorable night of local theater.
The Cake leaves you smiling, thinking, and maybe a little hungry — proof that when art, humor, and heart come together, everyone gets a slice.
