Tour of Alicia Keys’ ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ sets the Eccles on fire
Seeing the tour of “Hell’s Kitchen” was a reminder of what makes live theater so exciting: the discovery of something completely new. There’s a special thrill in opting to see a show without knowing its history, development, Broadway run, or awards recognition. You’re able to simply sit down, open yourself to something new, and let the show reveal itself. And be blown away.
That was my experience with “Hell’s Kitchen.” I knew little of Alicia Keys’ music. (Skip to next paragraph if you’re not as clueless.) I needed to read her playbill bio to learn of her fame: 17-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, musician, and producer. And it continues: Keys has sold over 65 million records and over five billion streams.
Impressive. But can she write a Broadway musical? There’s a sobering list of Broadway failures by pop and rock performers—shows that became commercial disappointments, critical misfires, or both. Paul Simon, “The Capeman”; Sheryl Crow, “Diner.”
But Keys has a distinctive musical voice and creates heartfelt emotional moments. “Girl on Fire” and “Empire State of Mind” I grew to love. The show is a bona fide hit and wildly entertaining. Worthy of wild applause — beyond applause that comes with the Salt Lake obligatory standing ovation.
Not only the production, but also the deeply talented cast. All of them. Beginning with Maya Drake, who plays the lead character. Ali is an amalgamation of artists she has met and a bit of herself. But the show is not autobiographical, as Keys is quick to point out. Drake was always in the spotlight, where she belongs.
Her performance was endearing, capturing the uncertainty and determination of a recent high school graduate searching for identity and independence. Combined with powerhouse vocals and remarkable stage presence, she anchored the production beautifully.
As piano instructor Miss Liza Jane, Roz White gave an unforgettable performance, including a solo that soared with emotion and showcased her extraordinary vocals. Her “A Perfect Way to Die,” which ended Act 1, is a true treasure. She’s a Broadway veteran with a career spanning four decades.
It is also worth noting that the Broadway actors who originated these roles—Maleah Joi Moon and Kecia Lewis—each won Tony Awards, while “Hell’s Kitchen” earned 13 Tony nominations.
The choreography, live orchestra, lighting, and staging were top-tier. Also, the ensemble’s amazing hip-hop dancing. (The Eccles’ previous staging, “Back to the Future,” had all the charm of being trapped in a never-ending timeshare pitch.)
Fully Broadway-caliber, “Hell’s Kitchen” was an exhilarating, memorable theatrical event with its masterful performers and captivating music.
Excuse me while I stream more Alicia Keys.
► Broadway at the Eccles, through July 12
