Hell’s Kitchen Uses Alicia Keys' Songbook to Showcase Music’s Power

New York City has been the backdrop to iconic films, inspired artists to wax poetic about the bustling city life, and encouraged people to dream bigger. Hell’s Kitchen, the musical featuring Alicia Keys’ songbook, explores a classic coming-of-age tale through the lens of her diverse catalog.

Jukebox musicals bring a wider audience to the theater. Although some people may still question characters bursting into song in the middle of a scene, hearing that known beat strikes a chord. Even if people can belt every lyric at the top of their lungs, the musical interpretation showcases a song’s power, complexity, and emotion. It is far from just another cover.

In Hell’s Kitchen, the carefully chosen songs cover Keys’ diverse catalog. Everyone anticipates “Girl on Fire,” but gospel-influenced “Hallelujah” and jazz references in other songs support the underlying plot. Music can be a diversion, but it is also a celebration of culture and connection.

Although some song choices fit like a square peg in a round hole, the ensemble cast’s performances make the audience overlook some plot gaps and other lacking elements. Additionally, the energetic and emotive dance moments in front of dazzling screens add a concert-like vibe to some scenes.

While Maya Drake (“Ali”) does a fine job with Keys’ inspired vocal interpretation, other cast members capture the spotlight. For example, Kennedy Caughell (“Jersey”) seamlessly jumps from overbearing mother to strong woman making her own way in the world. Even if some decisions feel a little too overprotective, her intentions are well-meaning.

Caughell’s vocal inflection draws the audience into her realm. All the subtle moments make her belt even more powerful. When she holds out a note, everyone sits at rapt attention.

Even though Drake commands the stage as Ali’s mom, Roz White (“Miss Liza Jane”) is the matriarch who unites all the stories with heart. She delivers a performance that is both sage elder and sentimental mother to all.

When White sings “Perfect Way to Die” at the end of the first act, it is the moment that encourages everyone to spend intermission reflecting on their own personal choices. Never preaching, it has the emotion and experience that feels genuine. It is an authentic portrayal that is quite memorable.

Although the women cast members command the stage, Jonavery Worrell (“Knock”) has the soulful voice that soothes and excites. Willing to be vulnerable and strong, the subtle notes are more compelling than the sultry ones.

Overall, Hell’s Kitchen is a celebration of songs that can fit into everyone’s story. From the coming-of-age trope to the longing to keep dreams alive, music is that unifier that breaks all boundaries.

For anyone who wants to laugh, feel a little sentimental, and appreciate the people who make life fuller, Hell’s Kitchen is a delightful night of musical theater. And, you might be humming a few songs all the way home.

Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen is currently on a National Tour. It plays Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando through Sunday, March 8.