Goffman (1959) pointed out that waiters have to work hard to perform in a deferential and pleasant manner to their audience, the restaurant customers. Because of the strain behaving in this manner creates, they often act very differently backstage in the kitchen area. The 2005 film Waiting humorously portrays this phenomenon, as exemplified here by waitress Naomi (played by Alanna Ubach), who exudes charm and patience out front with the customers but rage and contempt when back in the kitchen.
[Jeff Greenberg]