A shocking new musical has come to Broadway. Alicia Keys' semi-autobiographical show opened over the weekend, and we break down five reasons why it's a must-see event this Broadway season.
come listen to the hits
First and foremost, “Hell's Kitchen” is a jukebox musical, and a good musical at that. Unlike other similar shows, this show doesn't simply rely on Keys' vast catalog to succeed. Instead, he uses his songs to tell bigger, more epic stories, often rearranging and reshaping the numbers both situationally and sonically (as seen in one of Keys' signature songs). One, “Fallin',” particularly stands out in a shocking moment in the second act).
moving story
The show takes viewers on a thrilling coming-of-age adventure set in 1990s New York City. From the opening her number, we follow young Ali (Malea Joy Moon) as she experiences an unexpected loss in her first love, her journey as an artist, and one of the most important moments in her life, and the story unfolds in the past. You will feel like you have traveled back in time. Moon injects boundless ferocity and tenderness into her protagonist, who grapples with her responsibilities as a student and a daughter in an ever-changing world.
Her mother Jersey, played by the wonderful Shoshana Bean, is another important part of the show's story and serves as another entry point to the viewer. This character of hers shines as a touching portrait of a mother who does her best to protect and nurture her daughter while reflecting on her own past.
thrilling choreography
The show features stunning choreography by Camille A. Brown, known for her acclaimed work on plays such as “Choir Boy” and “Once on This Island.” The true heart of the show, Brown's choreography takes us from scene to scene, enlivening the story with an energy that touches you all the way to the last seat in the theater.
Recommended stories
unparalleled voice
The great music of the Keys is now being sung by some of the most powerful voices on the Great White Way. Both Moon and Bean mesmerize the audience with their brilliant vocals that fill the entire theater, handling Keys' biggest hits and latest releases with care and specificity. The show's supporting performances took her singing to new heights, including Brandon Victor Dixon, who held the audience in the palm of her hand from the moment she began her brilliant rendition of the Keys song “Not Even the King.” There is.
authentic new york experience
Overall, the experience is uplifting and moving, as Ali's journey cannot help but be filled with joy, hope, and immense love for the city she calls home. As the performance of Keys' hit song “Empire State of Mind” finally begins, the show itself is a celebration of New York City and the dreamers, lovers, teenagers, and people who live there every day. That's a good idea.
For more information on “Hell's Kitchen,'' including ticket information, visit the official website here.
